In a small sauce pan, heat maple syrup and almond butter over medium heat until combined, add date paste and whisk into mixture. Remove from heat and add vanilla, salt, oats, almonds, and chocolate chips. Line a 9×9 pan with parchment paper and pour in the granola bar mixture. Using another piece of parchment paper, press down very firmly to help the granola bars stick together. Let set in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour and then cut into 12 bars. Store in an air-tight container in the fridge or freezer.