Post by Megan Stulberg
I am thankful to have photographic documentation of the peppermint nanaimo bars I made last spring, because otherwise my brain would be working in overdrive trying to create an accurate visual memory. Seriously, I think about them at least once a week. So six months later, I finally caved and made another batch! I don’t know which flavour combination is *technically* better, but this recipe is accompanied by some illustrations by my internet friend Amanda Spinosa, so it wins by default. Check out her work, she is one fabulous human being.
INGREDIENTS…..
For the bottom layer:
- 1 cup raw pecans
- 1/2 cup medjool dates, pitted
- 1/4 cup raw cacao powder
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
For the filling:
- 2 cups fresh raspberries (don’t use frozen)
- 3/4 cup raw cashews
- 1/4 cup organic maple syrup or blue agave
- 1 tbsp coconut oil, melted
For the top layer:
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup raw cacao powder
- 1/4 cup organic maple syrup or blue agave
DIRECTIONS….
Directions:
- In food processor pulse dates, pecans, shredded coconut, coconut oil and cacao powder until a crumb-like consistency has been reached.
- Line a square baking pan with plastic wrap tightly that covers the bottom, sides and over the edges. Pour crust mixture into pan. Press down with a fork to pack an even layer. Let set in freezer for 20 minutes.
- Blend together cashews, coconut oil, maple syrup and fresh raspberries until creamy. Pour on top of crust and spread out evenly. Put back in freezer for 20 minutes.
- Blend together cacao, coconut oil and sweetener until liquid in consistency. Pour on top of raspberry cream layer evenly.
- Place pan in freezer for 30 minutes to semi-set. Hold onto plastic wrap and pulling upwards to pop bars out.
- Using a large knife, slice into 8-10 rectangular pieces. Place bars on a plate and keep in freezer for at least 3 more hours to set.
Let thaw at least 1 hour before serving.