Instructions

Prepare the peanut butter cookie base:

1. Add all the ingredients for the cookie base to a medium sized bowl and stir until well combined.
2. Transfer the mixture to an 8 x 8 baking dish lined with parchment paper.  Spread it evenly in the pan and press it down firmly.
3. Put the baking dish in the freezer to harden/firm while you work on the rest of the recipe.

Prepare the apple filling:

1. Add all ingredients for the apple filling to a food processor and pulse until the dates and apples are diced into tiny pieces, but taking care to not over process.  Set aside.

Prepare the peanut butter topping:

1. Add all the ingredients for the peanut butter topping to a small bowl and stir until well combined and smooth.

Assembly:

1. Remove the baking dish from the freezer.
2. Add the apple filling on top of the cookie base.  Spread it evenly in the pan and press it down firmly.
3. Place the pan back in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the apple mixture to firm so the peanut butter topping will be easier to spread.
4. Remove the baking dish from the freezer and pour the peanut butter topping over the apple filling, gently spreading it out evenly.  
5. Place the baking dish back in the freezer for approximately 30-60 minutes, or until the peanut butter topping hardens.
6. Optional:  Sprinkle ground cinnamon on top of each square before serving.
7. Store the bars in the freezer or refrigerator until ready to serve because they will get soft and lose their shape if left out at room temperature.
8. Enjoy!