So this weekend I partook for the very first time in a certain quintessential vegan experience.

That’s right, I had my very first Larabar. Color me initiated.

They were a little different than I was expecting. At first, the date flavor kind of hit me in the face (come to think about it, that was probably also the first time I had ever had dates), but once I got over that, they were more than palatable. I think my favorites of the ones I tried were the coconut cream pie and peanut butter cookie — perhaps because those were the only two flavors strong enough to mask the date-y aftertaste.

Overall, I liked them well enough, especially since finding a vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, chocolate-free snack bar is nigh impossible. The soft texture was also a definite plus, as I am plagued with TMJ problems. I can see Larabars growing on me, more so now that I’ve been forced to give up my beloved Clif bars on account of their soy content. At this point, I’m just thankful I don’t have a nut allergy!

… here’s hoping I didn’t just jinx myself there.