Sometimes you need to have a dessert that also functions as a snack. Not just a snack, a filling, energizing, nutrient-dense snack! No, we are not talking about a refreshing bowl of fruit. We are referring to these raw chocolate cranberry squares. You can make them thinner and cut them into bars to take on the go, or you can keep them thicker and cut them into smaller squares. Think of these like energy balls, only in square or rectangular form.
To make these chocolate cranberry squares, you add all of the ingredients to a food processor and blend until you achieve a dough-like clump. Keep in mind that you will likely have to stop blending, scrape down the sides of the processor bowl, and continue blending to fully incorporate all of the ingredients. It’s perfectly acceptable if you see small chunks of almonds and walnuts. They add a nice crunchy texture to these bars, which are quite soft.
Once all of the ingredients are thoroughly blended, remove the mixture from the food processor and press it into a square pan lined with parchment paper. The parchment paper is crucial because it prevents sticking. Listen, if you enjoy soaking your baking dish for a full day and then scrubbing it three times to clean off the chocolatey goodness sounds fun, you don’t have to use parchment paper. We will let you take that journey on your own. We just want to make your life as easy as possible!
- Prep Time:15m
- Total Time:15m
- Serves: 12 servings
- Category: Full Body Cleanse Approved, Appetizers & Snacks, Desserts, Raw, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 c raw walnuts
- 1/2 c raw almonds
- 1 c Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 c dried cranberries
- 1/4 c ground flaxseed
- 2 tsp. alcohol-free vanilla extract
- pinch of sea salt
- 1/4 c raw cacao powder
Instructions
- Add the walnuts and almonds to a food processor and pulse a few times until no large pieces remain. Pour them out of the food processor into the bowl and set aside.
- Add the dates and cranberries to the food processor and blend until no large pieces remain. Pour the nuts back into the food processor, along with the rest of the ingredients, and process until completely combined. Do not over-process; rather, just blend until the mixture comes together and clumps like dough.
- Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and press the mixture into the dish. It should be an even layer. Place in the freezer for about 20 minutes, and then remove so that you can cut it into cubes.
- Place back in the freezer to harden for about 40-60 minutes. Remove and wrap the squares individually or store in an airtight container in the fridge. Squares will keep fresh in the fridge for up to two weeks or in the freezer for two months.
