Sugar-Free Classic Date Bars

Indulge in the wholesome sweetness of these **Sugar-Free Classic Date Bars**, a healthier twist on a timeless treat that’s naturally sweetened with dates and applesauce—no added sugar needed! This recipe combines hearty rolled oats, whole wheat flour, and a touch of warming cinnamon for a crumbly, golden crust that sandwiches a luscious, homemade date paste. Melted coconut oil boosts richness, while unsweetened applesauce keeps these bars moist and guilt-free. Perfect for breakfast on-the-go, an afternoon snack, or a dessert that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, these date bars are easy to prepare in just under an hour. Enjoy a chewy, satisfying treat that's high in fiber and packed with natural goodness, all while keeping refined sugars off your menu!

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2 cups pitted dates
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1.5 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 0.25 cup coconut oil, melted

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the pitted dates and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for about 10 minutes or until the dates are soft and the mixture is thick. Stir frequently to prevent burning.

Step 3

Remove the date mixture from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly, then use a fork or potato masher to mash the dates into a smooth paste. Set aside to cool.

Step 4

In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Step 5

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce and melted coconut oil until well combined.

Step 6

Pour the applesauce mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until it forms a crumbly dough.

Step 7

Take half of the oat mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even bottom layer.

Step 8

Spread the date paste evenly over the bottom layer.

Step 9

Finally, sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the top of the date paste and gently press down to form the top layer.

Step 10

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

Step 11

Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 12

Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut into bars and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1154.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2792.3

Total Fat 71.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 51.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1243.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 544.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 62.4g	0%
Total Sugars 331.9g
Protein 45.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 459.8mg	0%
Iron 15.2mg	0%
Potassium 4458.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 21.4%

Protein: 6.1%

Carbs: 72.5%