Coconut Lime Date Bars

Give the gift of a treat that will sustain your loved ones throughout the busy holiday season. These are perfect for tucking into your purse to take on the go whether you are strolling down a street to look at Christmas lights or out for some holiday shopping. Add the dried cranberries for flecks of red bling throughout, too. A food processor is required to blend up the dates and nuts but otherwise this recipe comes together easily without even using a food processor. For more handmade food gift ideas, check out this link for some savory + sweet real food treats!

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups almonds, or your favorite nut such as hazelnuts or pecans
12 ounces dates
1 lime, zest and juice
1/4 cup dried cranberries, optional
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

Instructions
1. Place the nuts in a food processor and pulse until they are chopped evenly. Slice into the dates and remove any pits. Add the dates and grate in the lime zest with a fine grater or microplane. Juice the lime and add to the mix. Sprinkle in the dried cranberries and shredded coconut
2. Pulse and blend until the dates and nuts appear to be thoroughly chopped and combined. Line and 8×8 or approximate sized pan with wax paper or plastic wrap. Press the date paste evenly into the pan.
3. Cover with wax paper or plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes, but a couple of hours is best.
4.Remove the bars from the fridge and dump it onto a cutting board. Cut into 2-3 inch slices or even 1×1 inch squares. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap.

To store: keep in the fridge for a couple of weeks or in the freezer for a few months.
To gift: wrap in a bow, add a pretty label or wrap in your favorite festive washi tape.

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