Hazelnut brownies with maple chocolate ganache

Directions

1. 1
   To make the date paste, drain the soaked dates. Using a blender, blend the dates and as much water as is needed to achieve a smooth, thick paste. You may need to stop and scrap down the sides of the blender container a few times along the way. Set aside to use in the brownies.To make the brownies, use a food processor to process the hazelnuts and macadamia nuts to a coarse meal. Take care not to over process or the nutswill start to form a paste.
2. 2
   Add the cacao powder and salt and pulse to combine. Finally, add the date paste, vanilla extract and hazelnut extract and process until it forms a thick dough.Line an 8x8-inch square pan with parchment paper and press the dough evenly into the bottom of the pan.To make the frosting, use a clean food processor to blend the cacao powder and maple syrup until smooth. With the motor running, pour in the coconut oil and blend until emulsified.
3. 3
   Spread the frosting evenly over top of the brownie base, using an offset spatula to smooth out the top.
4. 4
   Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts.Chill the brownies in the freezer until set, about 2 hours.
5. 5
   Cut into small squares. Store in the fridge or freezer.