Raw Banana and Date Energy Squares: The Ultimate No-Bake Vegan Snack Recipe You’ll Love

If you’re looking for a quick, wholesome snack that’s naturally sweet and packed with energy, these Raw Banana and Date Energy Squares are a game-changer. They’re made with just a handful of simple ingredients, yet they deliver big on flavor and nutrition. Whether you need a pre-workout boost or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, these squares have got you covered.

What I love most about this recipe is how the natural sweetness of dates pairs perfectly with the mild creaminess of raw bananas. Plus, there’s no baking involved, making it super easy to whip up in no time. These squares are not only delicious but also vegan and gluten-free, so they’re perfect for just about everyone.

Raw Banana And Date Energy Squares Recipe

As someone who spends countless hours tending to my banana trees and dreaming up banana-inspired recipes, I can confidently say this one is special. These Raw Banana and Date Energy Squares are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a nutritious powerhouse. Let me guide you step-by-step so we can create this no-bake wonder together.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious energy squares:

• 1 raw banana (peeled and mashed)
• 1 cup Medjool dates (pitted)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (plus extra for topping)
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the banana and dates:

Start by mashing the raw banana in a large mixing bowl until smooth. If your dates feel a bit dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften. Then, drain the water and pulse the dates in a food processor until they form a sticky paste.

1. Combine the wet ingredients:

Add the date paste, almond butter, and vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined and smooth. This is where the magic begins!

1. Mix the dry ingredients:

In the same bowl, stir in the rolled oats, shredded coconut, chia seeds, cinnamon powder, and a pinch of sea salt. Use a spatula or your hands (my preferred method) to combine everything into a thick, sticky dough. It will smell wonderfully sweet and earthy.

1. Shape the squares:

Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Press the dough into the pan evenly, making sure the surface is compact and smooth. Sprinkle extra shredded coconut on top and press gently to help it stick.

1. Chill the mixture:

Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or in the freezer for 30 minutes, allowing the mixture to firm up beautifully. This step is crucial for achieving those perfect, easy-to-cut squares.

1. Cut and serve:

Once set, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 12 even squares using a sharp knife. Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Ingredients

As someone who loves cultivating bananas and crafting recipes around their versatility, I can’t wait to share this list of simple, wholesome ingredients for Raw Banana and Date Energy Squares. These ingredients work together harmoniously to create a snack that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Main Ingredients

• 1 medium raw banana, peeled and mashed to a smooth consistency
• 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted (soaking for 10 minutes in warm water makes them easier to blend)
• 1 cup rolled oats, finely ground into flour using a blender or food processor
• 2 tablespoons almond butter, creamy and unsalted
• 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut, for a subtle tropical flavor
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds, packed with protein and fiber
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, to enhance the sweetness naturally
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, for warmth and depth
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, to balance the sweetness

Optional Add-ins

Here are some ideas to make your squares even more exciting, depending on your taste or what’s available in your pantry:

• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (like walnuts, almonds, or pecans) for crunch
• 1 tablespoon cacao nibs or mini chocolate chips for a chocolaty twist
• 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal to boost omega-3s
• Zest of 1 orange for a citrusy flair
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder if you enjoy exotic spices

Equipment Needed

Creating these Raw Banana and Date Energy Squares doesn’t call for fancy gadgets—just a few basics that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what I used to make the process smooth and enjoyable:

• Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl for combining the wet and dry ingredients seamlessly.
• Fork or Potato Masher: To mash the raw banana until it’s creamy and smooth. (I always love this step because it feels so connected to working with this amazing fruit!)
• Food Processor: Essential for blending the Medjool dates into a sticky paste that binds everything together beautifully.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to getting the perfect texture for the squares.
• Spatula: For stirring and spreading the mixture evenly in the pan. A silicone spatula works best to get every last bit of the delicious mixture.
• 8×8-Inch Baking Pan: Use this to shape the mixture into a flat, even slab for slicing later. Line it with parchment paper to make removing and cutting the squares easier.
• Sharp Knife: For cutting the chilled mixture into neat, snack-sized squares. A sharp blade ensures clean edges and prevents crumbling.

Directions

As someone who loves everything about bananas, I’m thrilled to share these simple steps for making Raw Banana and Date Energy Squares. With a little prep and care, you’ll have a flavorful, energizing snack in no time.

Prep

1. Start by peeling one medium raw banana. Mash it thoroughly with a fork or potato masher until smooth and lump-free. The texture should be creamy to help bind the squares.
2. Pit 12 Medjool dates and soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften if they seem dry. This makes blending easier and creates a smoother paste.
3. Measure out 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/4 cup of almond butter, 1/4 cup of shredded coconut, 1 tablespoon of chia seeds, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. Set these aside in small bowls for easy access.

Blend

1. Drain the soaked dates and transfer them to a food processor. Blend until a thick, sticky paste forms. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides as needed.
2. Add the mashed banana to the food processor and blend again until well combined, forming a smooth, sweet base.

Assemble And Shape

1. Pour the wet mixture from the food processor into a large mixing bowl. Add the rolled oats, shredded coconut, chia seeds, cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir everything together until the mixture is evenly combined.
2. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra paper hanging over the edges for easy lifting.
3. Transfer the mixture to the pan and press it down firmly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. I like to smooth the surface carefully, ensuring even layers for perfectly shaped squares.

Chill

1. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm and set.
2. Once chilled, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to cut it into 12 or 16 squares, depending on your preferred size.

Make-Ahead Tips

As someone who grows bananas in my backyard and is always experimenting with banana-based recipes, I know the value of planning ahead when life gets busy. These Raw Banana and Date Energy Squares are perfect for prepping in advance, and with just a little preparation, you’ll have a nourishing snack ready whenever you need it.

Preparing the Ingredients Early

To save time on the day you make these energy squares, you can prep a few components in advance:

• Bananas: Use a ripe, yet firm raw banana. If you grow your own bananas like I do, opt for a variety that’s creamy and not too starchy. Mash the banana and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• Dates: Pit your Medjool dates ahead of time and soak them in warm water for 10 minutes when you’re ready to prepare the recipe. You can also keep pitted dates stored in an airtight container at room temperature to cut down on prep steps.
• Dry Ingredients: Mix the rolled oats, shredded coconut, and chia seeds in a bowl and keep it covered at room temperature. Having the dry mix ready makes the process quick and seamless.

Freezing for Longer Storage

If you’d like to make a batch of these ahead to enjoy over a longer period, the energy squares freeze beautifully. After shaping and cutting the squares:

1. Place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze until firm, about 1 hour.
2. Transfer the squares to an airtight freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. They’ll keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. Simply thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before enjoying.

Multi-Batch Preparation

I often double the recipe when my banana trees yield an abundant harvest, and I suggest you do the same if storage space allows. Prepare one batch to keep in the fridge for immediate snacking and freeze the rest for later. This ensures you’ll always have these sweet, nutrient-packed squares ready to grab.

Tips for Easy Portioning

To simplify serving, I recommend cutting the squares before storing them. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat edges. For busy mornings or post-workout cravings, you can individually wrap the squares in parchment paper or beeswax wraps. This makes them easy to pack for lunches, hikes, or a quick bite on the go.

Storing And Serving Suggestions

As someone who loves working with bananas in all their forms, I’ve found that storing these Raw Banana and Date Energy Squares properly can keep them fresh and delicious for the perfect banana-filled bite every time. These no-bake squares are like little treasures of natural sweetness, so let’s make sure they’re well cared for!

Storing the Energy Squares

Once the squares are cut, transfer them to an airtight container. I recommend layering them with parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking. Store them in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for up to 7 days. The cool environment helps maintain the subtle sweetness of the bananas and the chewiness of the dates.

If you’d like to keep them longer, these squares freeze beautifully! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Just make sure to label it with the date. These frozen bites will maintain their flavor and texture for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes—or eat them slightly chilled if you’re like me and love that frosty banana taste.

Serving Suggestions

These energy squares are incredibly versatile. I like to serve them as a quick grab-and-go snack, but they can also be plated beautifully for a more indulgent experience. Here are a few serving ideas that highlight their banana-forward flavor:

• For a Pre-Workout Snack: Pair one or two squares with a handful of nuts for a protein boost. The bananas and dates provide natural energy, perfect before hitting the gym or going for a morning run.
• As a Dessert: Drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the squares, then sprinkle with finely chopped nuts or additional shredded coconut. The banana flavor pairs beautifully with chocolate and adds a decadent touch.
• Kids’ Treats: Cut the squares into smaller, bite-sized pieces, and serve as a lunchbox treat. My kids absolutely love them as a nutritious alternative to store-bought snacks.
• With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a square alongside a cup of hot coffee or herbal tea. The warm spices in the recipe, like cinnamon and vanilla, complement the comforting flavors of your favorite warm beverage.

These Raw Banana and Date Energy Squares are as adaptable as they are delicious. Whether you’re storing them for the week or serving them up as a special treat, they’ll always showcase the incredible versatility of bananas in the best way.

Conclusion

Raw Banana and Date Energy Squares are such a simple yet satisfying way to fuel your day. I love how versatile they are, whether you need a quick snack, a pre-workout boost, or even a little sweet treat after dinner. Plus, knowing they’re packed with wholesome ingredients makes every bite even better.

The best part is how easy they are to make. No baking, no fuss, just a few steps to create something delicious and nourishing. Whether you’re prepping ahead for the week or freezing a batch for later, these squares fit perfectly into a busy lifestyle. Give them a try—I’m sure they’ll become a go-to in your kitchen, just like they have in mine!