After the deep fried goodness on Friday, it's time to refresh. Monday, a new week awaits you. After all that guilt (which was totally worth it), we thought we'd go down the route of gluten-free and vegan. Packed with almonds and pecans, these cookie dough raw bars are really good your health so you'll be thankful for giving into that cookie dough craving. The best thing? These bars are so easy to make and take a maximum of 20 minutes! 

(Image credit: NoshOn.It) 

You will need: 

(Makes six large bars) 

175g of dates with the pits removed and cut into quarters 

60g of raw almonds 

60g of raw pecans 

85g of chocolate chips 

One tablespoon of vanilla extract 

Directions

(Image credit: This Mess Is Ours) 

In a bowl, mix together the nuts and dates. Mix until the pieces are all the same size and a sticky dough has formed. Add the vanilla extract and process until well combined. Add the chocolate chips to the mixture and stir in. Line a tray with parchment paper and pour the dough onto it. Shape the dough into a large rectangle and pop into the fridge until firm. This should take about 20 minutes. Slice the bar into your desired shapes. 

Another idea is that you can also roll the dough into balls. These raw bars should be kept in the fridge in an airtight container and should last for a few weeks or up to a month (but they're so delicious so they'll definitely be gone by then!). 

*Pro tip: if you're not too fussed about being gluten-free or vegan, combine Gookie Dough with your favourite nuts and fruits, leave to set in the fridge and cut into pieces! Delicious.* 

Happy Monday, cookie monsters! These bars will make up for that hour you've lost in bed, I promise.