Vegan Chocolate Protein Bars

Servings: 12 bars

1 cup oats
½ cup vegan protein powder (I used soy)
¼ cup cocoa powder
1 cup Medjool dates, pitted and soaked for 30 minutes
½ cup + ¼ cup chopped pecans, divided
½ cup + ¼ cup shredded coconut, divided
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt
water as needed (up to ¼ cup)
2 tbsp cacao nibs or chocolate chips

1. In a food processor grind up the oats until they are a fine flour. Add protein and cocoa powders and blend again until well combined.

2. Drain and rinse the dates then add them to the food processor along with ½ cup of pecans, ½ cup of shredded coconut, vanilla, and salt. Blend again, adding a little water at a time, until a dough forms.

3. Transfer dough to a bowl, stir in the remaining ¼ cup of pecans and coconut along with 2 tbsp cacao nibs or chocolate chips.

4. Scrape dough onto a piece of parchment paper or silicone baking mat. Cover with another piece of parchment paper and roll the bars out to about ½ inch, shaping into a square as you roll.
Place the bars in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours, allowing them to firm up before cutting into 12 equal pieces.

5. Store in refrigerator for 5 days or a month in the freezer.