8ouncesMedjool datesTrader Joes is the best deal I have found, $3.79/pound You could add more if you'd like to increase the sweetness
1 1/2cupwalnutstoasted for extra flavor oompf if desired
6tablespoonscacao powderI used Navitas, any unsweetened powder would do, but higher quality ones usually have a better chocolate punch, my favorite so far has been Dagoba
1-2tablespoonsraw honeyor any honey, maple syrup, coconut nectar
Dash of saltoptional! But it heightens the chocolate flavor
Toast the coconut by cooking in a heavy-bottomed pan over low heat. Be very watchful, shaking it around many times to evenly toast and to watch the golden hues develop. It will go from toasted to burnt pretty quickly! Alternately, you could disperse the coconut on a cookie sheet and toast in a 350 degree oven for about 6-10 minutes, shaking a couple times, removing when golden brown. Set aside.
Place all ingredients except coconut in a food processor and blend until cohesive.
Add in 1/4 cup of the coconut. Pulse a few more times to mix, taste test for sweetness and add more dates or honey if desired.
Pinch off small grape size (or larger) pieces and roll into balls. Roll each ball in the remaining toasted coconut! A quicker method is to press the whole deal into an 8 x 8 pan, press the toasted coconut into the top. Slice into bars for storage. You all mix all the toasted coconut into the mix and forgo the pretty coating!
Store pieces in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.