This recipe is one of the most simple and versatile treats to make for any special occasion.
Start by lining the bottom and sides of two 9x9 inch pans.
For lining two pans: tear four sheets of wax paper a bit longer than the combined length of the bottom and sides of pans. (You don’t need exact measurements; eyeballing it works fine.)
Line the bottom and sides of one pan with one sheet of wax paper; and then turn the pan and line bottom and sides with the other sheet. Repeat this process for the second pan.
Lining the pans this way will assist in easy removal of the dessert after it’s frozen.
To make the base of the chocolate squares, use the Jingle Bell Balls recipe.
Instead of forming the dough into balls, press it into the bottom of the pans lined with the wax paper. Press enough dough into them to make 1/4” thick layer. (I like to use the bottom of a metal utensil that crushes garlic to press the layers flat, but clean hands will do the job just as well.) It is important not to make the crust thick for easy cutting into squares later.
Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top.
For any extra dough that’s leftover, form into balls and store in the freezer for eating later.
Then blend 5-6 ripe bananas (do not use frozen bananas), ¼ cup dark cocoa powder, and eight pitted dates* in a high-speed blender until smooth and creamy. You may need to add a couple Tablespoons of nut milk to aid the blending process.
Pour this mixture on top of the pressed dough and walnuts.
Spread evenly and then top with more chopped walnuts.
Place in the freezer for at least four hours.
When it’s hard, simply lift the entire square out of the pan and cut into sixteen small squares.
Store in airtight containers in the freezer and allow to thaw for 20-30 minutes before serving.
Enjoy!
*(If you are diabetic, omit adding dates to the chocolate topping mixture and add two ripe bananas instead.)
Emily Boller, wife, mother, artist, and author is on a mission to create expressive works of art in her lifetime; and to bring awareness to the potentially harmful traps of diet-wellness culture.
In her free time, she loves to chase sunrises, grow flowers and vegetables, and can homemade soups.