1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and set aside.

2. Put dates into a glass measuring cup, then cover with hot tap water. Let soak while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

3. Put oats into a blender or food processor and pulse several times just to partially grind them. You don't want to make oat flour, just break up the oats into smaller pieces. Pour oats into a mixing bowl, and add peanut butter, flax, baking soda, and salt. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to combine.

4. Add soaked dates to the empty blender/food processor with 1/2 cup water (you can use the same water you soaked them in, just measure out the correct amount). Blend until smooth. Scrape dates into the bowl with the oat mixture, add vanilla and chopped chocolate, and mix to fully combine.

4. Dump batter into the prepared loaf pan, and spread into an even layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. The bars will be slightly risen, and soft, when you take them out of the oven.

5. If desired, melt another 1/4 cup of chopped dark chocolate in the microwave and drizzle over the cooked bars. Let bars cool completely, then cut into 8 squares. Enjoy immediately, or individually wrap them to take on the go. Bars keep at room temperature for at least a week, and I think they taste even better after several days.