Date-Apple Bars — Gluten-Free

I know there is a controversy whether or not oats are gluten-free. In my research, I have gathered that the issue is whether or not the oats are contaminated with gluten at the place where they are packaged/processed. I am satisfied that our oats are not contaminated, so we continue to eat oats. To us, these bars are gluten-free.

Sweetened solely by dates and apples, they are not overly sweet. If you desire sweeter, feel free to add honey or agave (reduce the amount of almond milk accordingly). I believe one could also add date sugar without making any adjustments.

Date-Apple Bars — Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Egg-Free

Loosely based on Date Apple Cookies from The Guilt-Free Gourmet by Vicki B. Griffin

Using a 9 x 13 inch pan, this recipe yields 24 cookie bars

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. With coconut oil or grapeseed oil, grease a 9 x 13 inch pan well.

Blend dates and water in blender. Transfer to mixing bowl. Add all other ingredients. Mix well.

Transfer cookie mixture to pan. Spread out evenly using a spatula.

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Remove from oven and place on cooling rack. Let cool completely before cutting into bars. Store in an airtight container.

0 from 0 votes

Print

Date-Apple Bars

Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Egg-Free
Loosely based on Date Apple Cookies from The Guilt-Free Gourmet by Vicki B. Griffin.
Using a 9 x 13 inch pan, this recipe yields 24 cookie bars.

Course Dessert

Servings 24 cookie bars

Author Wardee Harmon

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 cups date pieces plain, not floured or sugared
• 1 cup pure water
• 2-1/4 cups apples shredded, unpeeled (about 3 small to medium size apples)
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 5 cups rolled oats not instant or quick
• 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 3 teaspoons guar gum optional
• 1/3 cup almond pulp leftover from straining almond milk (optional)
• 1 cup nuts chopped optional
• 1 cup raisins optional

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. With coconut oil or grapeseed oil, grease a 9 x 13 inch pan well.
3. Blend dates and water in blender.
4. Transfer to mixing bowl.
5. Add all other ingredients.
6. Mix well.
7. Transfer cookie mixture to pan.
8. Spread out evenly using a spatula.
9. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Remove from oven and place on cooling rack.
11. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
12. Store in an airtight container.

© Copyright 2007 by Wardee Harmon.