Chocolate Snack Time Squares

Ingredients

  • 1 cup oat flakes or quick oats (barley or wheat flakes also work well)
  • 1/2 cup flour (we use spelt flour but any grain flour will do such as oat, barley, or all-purpose)
  • 2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 tsp salt (optional)
  • 3/4 cup finely chopped pitted dates
  • 1/2 cup sesame seeds (sunflower seeds or chopped nuts work too)
  • 3/4 cup applesauce
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (sub in agave nectar, honey, or sweetener of your choice)
  • Oil (for greasing the pan)

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Measuring cups and measuring spoons
  • Mixing spoon
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • 11 x 7 inch (28 x 18 cm) baking dish
  • Spatula or knife for spreading

Prep time:

20

Yields:

15

Cook time:

15 large squares

Recipe submitted by:

Nicole Spencer

  1. Preheat oven to 350° F (180° C).
  2. Brush an 11 x 7-inch (28 x 18 cm) baking dish with oil. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, place oat flakes, flour, cocoa, cinnamon and salt. Stir well.
  4. Add chopped dates and sesame seeds. Stir well to combine.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk eggs. Add applesauce and maple syrup. Add to dry ingredients, and stir well to combine.
  6. Spread mixture evenly in prepared baking dish.
  7. Bake until the squares are firm to touch, about 15 minutes.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool before cutting into squares.

Kids enjoy mixing and measuring the ingredients so why not make the preparation a family affair? If food allergies are a concern, not to worry, these tasty squares can be gluten free and nut free if desired!