"Snickers" Bars (Vegan)

If you need a vegan treat that everyone will enjoy, this will fit the bill!

Dry Ingredients:

150 g old-fashioned rolled oats (scant 2 cups)

1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. sea salt

2 tsp. chia seeds

8 dates, finely chopped (6 if medjool)

2 Tbsp. vegan dark chocolate chips (I use Lily's brand)

Wet Ingredients:

1/4 C. natural creamy peanut butter

3 Tbsp. real maple syrup

1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

1 C. non-dairy milk (I use almond milk)

1/4 C. applesauce

Topping:

1/4 C.  vegan dark chocolate chips

3 Tbsp.+ chopped peanuts

2-3 dates, finely chopped

1) In a medium mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients and set aside.

2) In a medium saucepan, heat the wet ingredients (peanut butter, maple syrup, nut milk, applesauce, vanilla extract) and blend well until peanut butter is melted and mixes in.

3) Add dry ingredients to wet ones. Mix well, then transfer to a 9x9 pan lined with crinkled parchment paper. Press into lined pan with spatula.

4) Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until it is set and it's not sticky or gooey when you touch the middle.

5) Remove from oven. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler, thinning with a little water or nut milk until it is a drizzling consistency.

6) Sprinkle on the peanuts and dates, pressing them down into the bars topped with chocolate drizzle.

7) Let cool for 15 minutes, then slice, remove from the pan, and serve.

8) These can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just bake a few minutes to warm and serve.

This recipe is modified from the original by Vegan Richa, which appears here.