Whey Protein Energy Bars

1 . Stage

Place dates in a bowl and add boiling water to cover. Let soak for 10 minutes. Strain dates and discard the water.

2 . Stage

Blend oat flour, protein powder, and cocoa powder in a food processor until well combined. Add dates, 1/2 cup pecans, 1/2 cup coconut, vanilla, and salt. Pulse to combine, adding water as needed, to get a soft dough consistency.

3 . Stage

Transfer dough to a bowl. Add remaining pecans, remaining coconut, and chocolate chips; mix well.

4 . Stage

Scrape dough onto a piece of parchment paper and place another piece of parchment paper on top. Toll bars out to about 1/2-inch thick. Refrigerate until firm, 2 to 3 hours.

5 . Stage

Slice into 12 bars and serve.