Chocolate Coconut Squares

Ingredients

1 cup dates (If your dates are not soft, soak them in hot water for 20 minutes; then drain and pat dry before using.)

1 ½ cups walnuts

3 tbsp cocoa or cacao powder

¾ cup plus 1 tbsp coconut cream

2 cups shredded coconut

1.5 cups chocolate chips (or I use 4 squares of unsweetened chocolate but it's a bit intense for some!)

Preparation

For the crust:

1. Add dates to a  food processor and  blend until only small pieces remain and it forms into a ball.  Remove and set aside.  

2. Next, add the nuts and cocoa powder to the food processor and process into a fine flour.  Then add the dates back in and blend until a loose dough forms.  It should stick together when you squeeze a bit between your fingers.  If it’s too dry, add a few drops of water.  If it’s too wet add a little almond flour. Pat the crust evenly into the bottom of an 8-inch square pan.  

For the filling:

1. Combine the coconut and coconut cream together in a bowl and mix well.  Evenly distribute this coconut mixture over the crust.  Bake in a 350 degree oven for about 25 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center is bubbling.  Let cool.

For the topping:

1. Melt the chocolate chips and then pour over the coconut, carefully spreading the chocolate to ensure even distribution.  This can be a bit tricky as the coconut might want to pull up and mix with the chocolate.  Go slowly.

2. Let the chocolate firm up and then cut into squares.  These bars are very delicate but oh so yummy!  Store in the fridge or freezer.