Avoiding eating after dinner is hard for many people. We’re used to relaxing and unwinding with that sweet ending to our day! But to give our bodies the best shot at rejuvenation, try eating your sweet treat a few hours earlier, after your dinner. It’s better for your blood sugar and even your serotonin levels. What makes these Sweet Endings special is how satisfying they are — both in flavor and in macronutrient profile. The sweet-salty interplay gives you that oomph right away, and the protein and healthy fats help you stay fuller into the night. Yields 16 pieces

Directions

Prepare the Almond Butter Date Bars

1. Place dates in a bowl of water and soak until soft.

2. Line a nine-inch (23-centimeters) baking pan with Gefen Parchment Paper that hangs over the edges. (You can use an eight-inch (20-centimeter) pan as well; layers will be slightly thicker.) Set aside.

3. To prepare nut layer: In a food processor fitted with the S blade, puree dates. Add almond butter, vanilla, and salt; blend to combine. Stir in crushed nuts, processing just until combined (so it stays chunky). Press mixture evenly into prepared pan.

4. For the chocolate layer: In a microwave-safe bowl or in the bowl of a double boiler, melt chocolate of choice with coconut oil, stirring midway to combine. Pour over nut layer. Freeze, uncovered, for 10–15 minutes, until chocolate firms up slightly.

5. Sprinkle sparingly with sea salt flakes. Return to freezer for 30–45 minutes.

6. Using the parchment paper hanging over the edges, lift carefully out of the pan. With a sharp knife, cut into four rows of four squares. Store in the fridge or freezer; enjoy cold.