No-bake Chocolate Oaties - almost sugar free

There is almost no sugar in this modified version of Chocolate Oaties (or no bake oatmeal quickies). They have a rich chocolate taste and are just

sweet enough to make you happy.

1/2 C. milk of choice (I like chocolate almond milk or coconut milk, unsweetened)

9 Tbsp. unsweet cocoa powder

2 Tbsp. butter

1/3 C. extra virgin coconut oil

1 tsp. vanilla

1/3 C. (divided) shredded unsweet coconut

13-15 pitted Dates

1 Tbsp. pure maple syrup

2 C. Oats

In a food processor, grind 1/3 C. coconut with all the dates until you have a fine grain. Toast the remaining coconut if desired.

In a medium saucepan, whisk cocoa and milk until smooth. Add butter and oil, heat on low, whisking until they are melted. Remove from heat

and whisk in vanilla. Stir in maple syrup, dates and all of coconut. Stir Oats, a little at a time until consistency is thick, but will stick together a bit.

Drop blobs onto waxed paper on a flat baking sheet and chill until firm.

Enjoy!