Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

An energy bar that tastes like a chocolate chip cookie. A chocolate chip cookie that tastes like an energy bar. Which one would you choose?

I say an energy bar that tastes like a chocolate chip cookie!

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

I had a hard time naming these treats because they taste like cookie/cookie dough but they’re not baked, contain no butter, eggs and oil and they’re filled with health. Energy bars? Totally!  They’re inspired by the chocolate chip cookie dough Larabar but even better because they’ve got some oats up in. There’s a little more bite to them and less dates.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

They give you energy. I mean…a real cookie gives you energy but it’s fleeting energy. This is the read deal kinda energy. They’re also vegan! They are a great after-school treat or a 3PM where’s my chocolate I NEED CHOCOLATE treat. Also great for after dinner…I’m thinking it would be good to sandwich some ice cream between two squares. What do you think about that? I think yes.

And we’re off! If you use gluten-free oats, they are totally gluten free.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

Cashews and oats go in the food processor. We’re gonna get them processed into a coarse powder.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

See? Now we add in the good stuff.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

We blend in the dates, cinnamon, sea salt & maple syrup.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

Til we get a thicker oatmeal raisin cookie dough like texture.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

Then we add in our chopped walnuts & chocolate. PROCESS.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

Get that incorporated! We line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

This makes it easier to pick up the cookies after they’re set. Dough goes in.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

Put another piece of parchment on top and press the dough into the pan.

 

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

Pull off! Look it’s nice and flat-ish. Now we pop it in the freezer to let it harden.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

Now we cut! You can make about 8-10 bars.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

Or 16 squares. I like squares because sometimes I just need a little pick me up. Just a lil.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

But who am I kidding…

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

I think you’re gonna love them.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

They’re best stored in the freezer between sheets of parchment paper so you can easily grab one to go!

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars // shutterbean

I feel safe when there’s a batch of these in our freezer. You’ll see what I mean.

If you’re an oatmeal raisin cookie fan, you’ll like these ones. 

You might also like Lemon Date Energy Bars and Apricot Coconut Energy Bars

Chocolate Chip Cookie Energy Bars

makes 16 squares

  • 1  1/2 cup raw cashews
  • 1/4 cups rolled oats
  • 6 Medjool dates, pitted and chopped (about 1/2 cup)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1.75 oz. chopped dark chocolate (I used 72% Cacao)
  • heavy pinch sea salt

Place cashews and oats into food processor and process until mixture is coarsely chopped, about 30-40 seconds. Add the dates, maple syrup, cinnamon and a heavy pinch of sea salt in the food processor. Process for about 30 seconds until you have a dough that resembles oatmeal raisin cookie dough. Add in the chopped chocolate and walnuts and process for another 20-30 seconds until mixture is well combined.

Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, making sure edges overlap. Place the oat mixture in the pan, top with another piece of parchment and push the mixture into the pan with your hand. Pat the mixture down evenly and then cover. Put the baking pan in a freezer for at least 4 hours. When relatively firm, remove from the freezer and cut into 2 inch squares.

Store the squares in a tightly sealed container in the freezer for up to 2 months. If they are served at room temperature, the squares will be too soft and sticky. They remain chewy when they eaten right out of the freezer.

  • Averie @ Averie Cooks

    I love vegan/no-bake energy bars like this made with ground nuts and dates. So good! My #1 most popular recipe on my site every year since 2009 is a raw vegan cookie dough recipe that’s made with cashews, oats, dates, agave, choc chips. I can totally imagine how good your bars are by reading the ingredients! pinned 🙂

  • Kim

    I ADORE your bracelets!!!!!! Looks like a yummy bar-can’t wait to make them. Thanks for your awesome blog. I am always inspired by yours recipes and tips and pics and style. You are amazing!

  • Tracy | Pale Yellow

    I always need a pick up at 3 pm! Being a teacher, I have never gotten out of the after school snack routine; I need healthier options! I can’t wait to whip up a batch.

  • Katrina @ WVS

    These look great! Also, loving your bling! So fancy 🙂

  • Allison @ Celebrating Sweets

    Yes, yes, yes! These look fabulous and I love that they’re not loaded with dates. Can’t wait to try them!

  • Abby @ The Frosted Vegan

    Um YES to these! I can eat as many as I want because..energy, right?!

  • Cara

    These would be amazing with some chia seeds in the mix!

  • Libby

    These look awesome! Because of a current, semi-restrictive diet prescribed by my doctor, I’m looking to eat grain free and aside from the oats, these are perfect. I feel like omitting them would make them unable to hold together. Can anyone think of a grain free substitute?

  • Victoria

    These look really good! I’ve only tried one of those energy bars..I think it was a white chocolate cranberry version?!?! It wasn’t bad, but I’m just more likely to eat what I made myself. Your recipe sounds perfect! 🙂

  • Jessica (bakecetera)

    i am loving everything about this recipe. especially the simplicity of ingredients!

  • Tagati

    Aloha,

    Luv, luv your site and am addicted to perusing it whilst sipping espresso. I’ve bookmarked so many of your recipes too.

    Noticed your salt cellar and wondered where I could purchase one.

    Mahalo.

  • Tereza

    Looks so yummy! Love how easy this recipe is. I would use honey instead of maple syrup too.

    http://lifeandcity.tumblr.com

  • Nicole

    Oh yes, I would feel much better having a batch of these in my freezer, too.

  • Cheryl

    You are the wind beneath my wings.

  • Jen @ Fresh from the...

    These make me wonder why I did not just get a larger food processor than the tiny one I have. Silly me.

  • Priya

    Look awesome and love the font too!

  • Rebeca

    I got a text from my boyfriend a while ago with a link to these that said “happening right now”. I’m excited to try them once I get home from my run. They look so yummy!

  • Heidi - Apples Under My Bed

    I think yes, also. Great job, Tracy. Love snacks like these & I so appreciate the use of more oats/less dates from a financial perspective. Dates are so good but so pricey! Making these most definitely. Heavy pinch of sea salt for sure. YUM.
    Heidi x

  • Heather Christo

    These look so good and I love that my kids would eat them with the chocolate chips in there!

  • Jenna

    Just tasted my batch & they are delicious. I omitted the oatmeal and they turned out fine. Thanks for the energy treat. We are a vegan family and the youngest is almost 4 months. He’ll like these in few hours.

  • Amy

    Oh delicious! Definitely have to go with an energy bar that tastes like a cookie when asked that question 🙂
    Also glad to hear that people have omitted the oatmeal with success. Still negotiating certain things with my tender tummy and oats seem to be on the borderline. And chocolate chips for morning tea – win!

  • Teresa

    Clifbar may be in trouble now, I’m going to make some of these this weekend. Thanks for inspiring.

  • Danae @ reciperunner

    I’m always on the lookout for a great tasting energy bar and these look like a winner! Most of the ones in the stores have a funny aftertaste. I like your idea of putting a scoop of ice cream between two of them for dessert! Move over Larabar these chocolate chip cookie energy bars are about to take over!

  • Gabby

    Tracy! I need your help. I know that this may be a little unorthodox but I don’t know where else to turn than the very powerful world of bloggers. My mom and I started a program two years ago that teaches children and teens how to eat healthy, meal plan, shop and cook using seasonal products, and love all things nutrition! We have reached a make it or break it point because the demand for our programs is higher then we can handle – so we decided to start an IndieGoGo campaign. You write brilliantly about all things food and from the looks of it use a variety of great healthy choices. Can you help us get people excited about Rainbow Chefs and Nutrition? Please email me at gabby@rainbowchefs.com

  • Kasey

    Yeah!! I need these in my life. Great photos, Tracy!!

  • Haley @ Cheap Recipe Blog

    Oh Tracy… you had me at chocolate chip! I am giving up desserts for Lent. Does this count as a dessert? I hope not 🙂

  • Suzanne

    Hmmm… these look wonderful, but, I lost my food processor in the move, wonder if I can do it with a blender and mixing by hand?

  • Lia : Dizzy Loves Icy

    Thank goodness for you and this post. I don’t think i’ve ever been as tired as I am sat here now, typing this. I have a cup of almost undrinkable-because-it-tastes-like-rocket-fuel coffee and I need a pick me up! These will do 🙂

  • Amy @ A Healthy Life For Me

    I love vegan energy bars, great to have around for a snack time. WIth chocolate chips it would be more a treat than a snack. I have been throwing dates in my baked goods too, just posted a gluten free banana date bread. yummy!

  • Lisa @ Simple Pairings

    Yum! These look delicious. I love energy bars that are actually made with wholesome, delicious ingredients – no added sugar is a must! Yours look delicious 🙂

  • Tess @ Tips on Healthy Living

    These look delicious! What would you recommend to people with nut allergies?

    (Did you do a re-design? Your blog looks amazing!)

    • Tracy

      Thanks! no redesign although I’m getting the itch to do so! Nut allergies. Hmmm. Perhaps you can do way more oats and add coconut or extra dates to the mix? What about sunflower seeds? It’s not going to have the same taste though.

  • Adrienne | Appetites Anonymous

    Definitely going make these since I have left over pitted dates from making vegan truffles! Great recipe and as always beautiful photos!

  • Kate @ ¡Hola! Jalapeño

    I have all the ingredients to make these! Might whip up a batch before the kids get home.

  • Shikha @ Shikha la mode

    You mean I can actually pass off cookies as healthy? I’m there! Love your photos – do you use a lightbox?

  • Cynthia

    This is my kind of super energy bar. No artificial stuff. Thanks for the great idea, I can’t wait to try it out.

  • Loraine

    Made these last night and brought them into work for a Friday morning tea for all the drivers – all gone and great comments, will be making these again – thank you Tracy 🙂

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  • Patricia

    Me… this weekend….. doing energy bars :-). Since I just realized how many money I spent in the past weeks for these to buy and hey. Not realized how easy it is to do it by yourself. Until now. Thanks for sharing.
    A couple of weeks I tried “panforte” at home with lots of spices, nuts and cacao, after having the chance to taste some a friend of mine brought to us from Firenze, Italy.

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  • Alexe @ Keys to the Cucina

    I love this recipe so much. I’m always looking for new and healthy energy bar recipes, can’t wait to make them, pinned!

  • Reema

    Made these yesterday and they are so good! Hubs thought they were cookie dough squares 😉 Great recipe- thanks!

  • Keely

    Tracy, I just made these and they are so tasty. However, even after freezing, they are still crumbly. I mean, I’m gonna eat every last delicious crumb, but what should I try next time to remedy this? More dates? More syrup?

    • Tracy

      More dates and maybe a little more syrup. Process for a little bit longer!

      • Melissa Lee

        Thanks for that question/ answer…the crumblys were AWESOME but I wanted a bar! And I’m already thinking of new flavor combos! Yum!

  • Josephine

    Hi Tracy! My husband made these yesterday when we were expecting some people around afternoon tea time. Just wanted to say THANK YOU! They are so delicious! I can see they will be on high rotation around here. Our 3 and 1 year old sons love them (miraculous) and they’ll be perfect work snacks for my husband and me. I absolutely understand what you mean by feeling ‘safe’ when these are around 😉

    Like Keely, ours were a bit crumbly, but that is everything to do with having a weak-as food processor, it just didn’t cope well after the dates went in. So, we are totally getting a new food processor 😉

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  • Erica

    I am excited to try these but have no walnuts….can you suggest a substitution? Almonds? More cashews? Thank you!!

    • Theresa Scholtz

      Have you got any macadamia nuts? I didn’t have quite enough cashews when I made mine, so I made up the difference with macadamias and they were amazing! Pecans have a similar texture to walnuts, they might work too. Almonds are a lot harder so they might turn out different…I can’t imagine it being bad either way, these are way too yummy! 🙂

  • Shauna

    I wanted to make these the moment I saw your post. Finally got a free moment last night, and they’re fab! I used the Lindt Salted dark chocolate – highly recommend it! The only problem is that I want to devour the entire batch.

  • Theresa Scholtz

    oh…WOW! I just made these and I will never ever buy a Larabar again! They are SO GOOD!! Just the perfect mix of…everything! I will definitely be trying your other flavors also, and it will be soon, as these are not going to last long at all…hahaha…thank you for an awesome recipe!! 🙂

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  • Jessica@TheMindlessMusings

    These look sooo good and I can’t wait to try them. I have one question though, after storing them in the freezer are we supposed to let them cool to room temp and then eat it? I thought it would be too hard to eat straight out of the freezer.

    • Tracy

      They aren’t tooooo hard right out of the fridge. You could wait a few minutes before eating them if you’re nervous.

  • Jess

    How do you think hazelnuts and almonds would work? I’m not a huge walnut fan, and we just ran out of cashews?

    • Tracy

      Almonds as a base and hazelnuts instead of walnuts!

      • Jess

        Made them with cashews (as a base) and hazelnuts (instead of walnuts) — delicious!! I love the hazelnut-chocolate flavor combo, so it’s perfect.

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  • Tina Muir

    Hello! Just stumbled across your blog through messy baker, and have fallen in love with these bars! As an elite athlete who needs to fine tune her nutrition to run as well as I can, I am always looking for cheat ways to get my sweets, these would be perfect! Cant wait to try! Thank you!

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  • Anne

    I made these last night and they turned out perfect! These are my new go to healthy treat. Thanks Tracy!

  • Caroline

    Hi Tracy! Do you toast the walnuts and cashews first or do you just throw them in raw?

  • Joelle

    I made these for a second time yesterday and UGH SO GOOD!! The first time they were really crumbly so I added a little almond butter. This second time I used mainly almonds and some pecans for the nuts (what i had on hand), and added in the Trader Joe’s Roasted Coconut chips. Wow!! I’ll be making these every week ha!

  • nicole bieri

    Thanks for the great recipe. Loved them the first time and on my way to make them again!

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  • Heidi

    Tracy, do you have any idea how many calories are in these bars? They are kind of cut small, so maybe not so many.

  • Rebeca

    I’ve just made a batch of these and I wanted to tell you how much I love them. I’ve made them many, many times and they’re one of my favourite easy snacks. I skip the maple syrup because it’s so expensive over here I’d have to sell a kidney to buy it often, and they turn perfectly fine without it. Thank you, it’s a keeper!

    • Rebeca

      And I have just seen I commented almost 3 years ago, and I have 2 thoughts:
      1. Current boyfriend is not the same as 2014 boyfriend – man, has life changed!
      2. Past self, it was cute of you to try to get into running. Cute or maybe delusional, lol. That didn’t last too long.

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