These Chocolate Cherry Rx Bars are a great way to show some love! They are rich, chewy, chocolatey, and super satisfying. Enjoy the taste (and benefits!) of chocolate, without all of the added sugar. Plus, they come together in just a matter of minutes at a fraction of what you’ll pay at the store. That’s a whole lot to love!

Why You’re Going to LOVE These Homemade Chocolate Rx Bars

Valentines Day is notorious for being about the chocolates and candy!  And honestly, we’re not all the way opposed to that. In fact, I’m hoping my husband comes through with some real chocolate. However, turning your kids focus to heart healthy activities and delicious healthy treats is a great way to show them you love them!

You only need three main ingredients to make these Chocolate Rx Bars. Pecans, dates, and cocoa powder! Pecans are a good source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber that can help keep you energized and satisfied. The flavonoids in cocoa can aid in cardiovascular health, digestion, and improves blood vessel function. Dates are high in fiber and help keep cholesterol levels normal.

So, let’s eat some pecans, cocoa and dates for our hearts, shall we?

Ingredients for homemade Chocolate Rx Bars:

• Pecans– we used pecans, but walnuts, almonds or cashews will work equally well here. Make sure you are using raw nuts.
• Dates– we used medjool dates, which are the most common and widely available. You can usually find them in the produce aisle.
• Cocoa Powder– we used regular cocoa powder. Dutch-process can be used, and will produce a darker, more intense chocolate flavor.
• Dried Fruits (optional)– if desired, you can add dried fruit! We added some dried cranberries to ours. Dried cherries, apricots, mango, or blueberries would also be delicious.

How to Make Chocolate Rx Bars:

1. Soak your dates. This is important! It gets the dates good and soft so they will blend well with the other ingredients and create a mixture that you can press into bars. The best way to do this is to submerge them in boiling water for at least 10 minutes. Check to make sure they are sufficiently softened. Dates that are slightly stale and harder might need 30 minutes. You can also microwave your dates in 10 second intervals. Check every time for softness and avoid overcooking.
2. Add all the ingredients to a food processor. Pulse until everything is well combined. The mixture will look sandy, but when you touch it, you should be able to press it together and it will hold its shape.
3. Shape as desired. You can press the mixture into a silicone mold, or shape into individual bars. You could also press the mixture into a parchment lined square pan, then lift it out and cut into squares. Make sure you really pack your mixture together when forming to ensure that it holds its shape.
4. Chill for 30 minutes. Drizzle with melted chocolate, if desired. Store in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Tips & Suggestions:

Variations:

• Boost the protein by adding protein or egg white powder.
• Top with flaked sea salt.
• Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
• Add coconut flakes.
• Add orange or lemon zest.
• Add mini chocolate chips.

How to Store:

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Substitutions:

You can play around with the nuts! Instead of pecans, you can use walnuts, cashews, almonds or peanuts. You can also do a mix of different nuts.

Troubleshooting:

Don’t over process the mixture, or it will get gummy and lose the texture. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add water or coconut oil, one teaspoon at a time, until the mixture is able to be pressed together.

More Healthy Snacks to Try: