Tahini Caramel Bars
[Vegan]

For the Dates:

To Prepare:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C, or gas mark 4). Line and lightly grease an 8-inch (20-cm) loaf pan with parchment paper. Set aside.

To Make the Shortbread:

1. Mix all the ingredients together until a smooth batter forms. Press it evenly into the lined loaf pan in a single layer. Bake it for 11 to 12 minutes, or until cooked. It may still be soft, which is okay. Carefully pop it into the freezer.

To make the Caramel Filling:

1. Combine all the ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Once the shortbread layer is cooled to handle, drizzle the filling and spread it with the back of a spoon. Pop it into the freezer to set.
2. To make the topping: Combine the chocolate and oil in a small saucepan over low heat. (Or you can zap in the microwave for 30 seconds.) Melt the chocolate and coconut oil together until you have a smooth chocolate.
3. Pour the melted chocolate over the filling of your bars and spread it evenly by moving your loaf tin around so it’s evenly distributed. Finish with some flaky salt and let it finish setting in the freezer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from the freezer and use parchment paper to remove the chocolate bars from the loaf tin. Using a serrated sharp knife, cut 8 pieces out. Serve immediately or store in the fridge or freezer in an airtight container.