Soak Medjool dates for 10-15 minutes in boiling water. (optional but encouraged!)
Add dates to food processor or blender. Blend on high until mixed up.
Add the peanut butter, hemp hearts, coconut and vanilla. Blend together.
Add in flavour mix-ins (such as chocolate chips, dried cranberries, other dried fruit, cocoa powder). Blend until mixed.
Line a square pan with parchment paper. Scoop bar mixture into pan and press down firmly with a spatula. Cut into bars.