No bake Mennonite inspired brownies

1. Line an 8-inch square pan or loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Place dates in a food processor and pulse until they form a stick paste. (alternatively place dates in a dish with hot water until softened, approximately 10 minutes, drain off excess water)
3. Pulse the nuts and cocoa in a food processor until they become a sand like texture.
4. Add the nuts and cocoa mixture into the softened / pulsed dates.
5. Mix until completely combined.
6. Press firmly into the prepared pan.
7. Refrigerate for at least one hour.
8. Cut into squares and serve.

Optional Chocolate Topping: 

1. 1/2 cup melted chocolate chips / 1 tbsp coconut oil
2. Melt together and spread over prepared brownies.
3. Chill until chocolate sets.