Larabar-Style Cashew Cookie Date Bar

A two-ingredient homemade date-cashew bar that mirrors the beloved Larabar Cashew Cookie flavor using organic Medjool dates and raw cashews — the same minimalist concept made with better-sourced ingredients and no commercial manufacturing.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups organic Medjool dates, pitted (about 15 large dates)
  • 1 1/2 cups raw whole cashews
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt (optional, but recommended)
  • 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional, for a vanilla-forward note)

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Instructions

  1. If the dates are very dry or refrigerator-cold, let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to soften slightly.
  2. Add the raw cashews to a food processor and pulse 5–6 times until broken into rough pieces. Do not over-process — you want some texture remaining.
  3. Add the pitted dates, sea salt, and vanilla extract (if using) to the food processor.
  4. Process continuously for 1–2 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides occasionally, until the mixture forms a sticky, cohesive mass that clumps together when pressed.
  5. Test the mixture by squeezing a small amount in your palm — it should hold together without crumbling. If it's dry, add one or two more dates and process again.
  6. Line a loaf pan (9x5-inch) or 8x4-inch container with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture and press firmly into an even, compact layer about 3/4 inch thick.
  7. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up, then lift out and cut into 8 bars.
  8. Wrap individual bars in parchment paper and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or the freezer for up to 3 months.

FAQ

Why does the original Larabar only have 2 ingredients but taste so good?

Medjool dates are naturally very high in fructose and have a caramel-like flavor that, when processed with cashews, creates a rich cookie-dough taste with zero added sugar or flavoring needed.

Can I roll these into balls instead of bars?

Absolutely — the same dough works as energy balls. Roll tablespoon-sized portions between your palms until round and refrigerate. They're easier to snack on and require no cutting.

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