Almond Joy Bars

Is your sweet tooth nudging you?

These little bites of oh so yummy coconut, almonds and chocolate will take care of the cravings you might be having for all the Halloween candy that we see in the stores this time of year.

If you are new to raw desserts, you’ve gotta try this one!

They are loaded with healthy fats, fiber, antioxidants and a hint of natural sugar. I had a few friends who sampled these delectable goodies and they were blown away that these are actually healthy!

If you love coconut and chocolate, then this recipe is for you!

Raw, vegan and completely gluten-free, these yummy treats can be enjoyed by everyone. Using only a handful of ingredients, these bars are so easy to make and come together in no time!

Warning coconut lovers: I dare you to try and eat just one.

Almond Joy Bars
Makes 8-10 bars
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, lightly packed
3 tablespoons unrefined virgin coconut oil
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
8-10 roasted or raw unsalted almonds
1/8 teaspoon sea salt
6 ounces dark chocolate, chopped or broken in to small pieces if you’re using a bar

In a food processor, process the shredded coconut, coconut oil, honey, vanilla extract, and salt until it forms a thick paste, about 2-3 minutes. Test the coconut mixture to see if it holds together by squeezing a small amount in your hand. If the coconut mixture doesn’t hold together well, then continue to process the mixture for another couple of minutes. Line a baking sheet or plate with parchment paper. Using a tablespoon, scoop out and gently press down the coconut mixture into the measuring spoon. Drop the tablespoon of mixture onto the lined baking sheet and then press and mold the balls into a uniform shape. Press an almond on top of the coconut rectangles. Place the coconut rectangles in the freezer for 20-30 minutes or until solid. Once the coconut bars are frozen, it’s time to melt the chocolate.  Make sure to keep the coconut bars in the freezer until you have melted your chocolate.  In a small sauce pan over low heat, melt the chocolate, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, until melted and smooth. Immediately remove the melted chocolate from the heat and give it a stir with your spatula. When the chocolate is melted, take out the frozen bars.  Using a spoon, gently dip the bar into the melted chocolate making sure that the whole bar gets covered with chocolate. Lift the bar out and tap off any excess chocolate. Return the chocolate covered bar to the parchment paper. Repeat the process with the other remaining bars. Once all of the bars have been dipped into the chocolate, place them in the freezer for a few minutes to set. Store the bars in the refrigerator in an airtight container.