Quick answer: Blend Medjool dates, rolled oats, almonds and almond butter until the mixture sticks together, press it into a lined pan, chill for an hour and cut into bars. No baking and no added sugar is needed.
Last updated: 14 November 2026
Ingredients (makes 12 bars)
- 250 g (about 1½ cups) pitted soft Medjool dates
- 100 g (1 cup) rolled oats
- 100 g (⅘ cup) almonds
- 120 g (½ cup) almond butter or peanut butter
- A pinch of salt; optional 1 tsp cinnamon or vanilla
Method
- Line an 8 inch (20 cm) square tin with baking paper.
- Pulse the almonds and oats in a food processor to a coarse crumb.
- Add the dates, nut butter and salt and process until the mixture clumps. If it is crumbly, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of warm water.
- Press firmly into the tin and chill for 1 hour.
- Cut into 12 bars.
Variations
- Drizzle with melted dark chocolate.
- Add 2 tablespoons of chia seeds or shredded coconut.
- Use walnuts or pistachios instead of almonds.
Storage
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer. Dates keep their softness best when chilled, so buy cold-stored Medjool dates and keep them in the fridge.
See also Medjool dates before a workout and more date recipes.
Frequently asked questions
How do you make date bars stick together?
Process the dates until they form a sticky paste with the oats and nut butter, and add a little warm water if needed.
Are date bars healthy?
They are made from whole ingredients without added sugar, but dates are naturally high in sugar, so enjoy them in sensible portions.
Can I use dry dates?
Soak dry dates in hot water for 10 minutes and drain them before blending.
