Chocolate Coconut Almond Bars.

Indulging in a sweet treat doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your health goals, especially when you can whip up these delectable Chocolate Coconut Almond Bars. With a delightful combination of rich dark chocolate, creamy almond butter, and the natural sweetness of medjool dates, these bars are perfect for a quick snack or a satisfying dessert. They’re packed with wholesome ingredients, so you can enjoy every bite guilt-free. Whether you’re looking for an energy boost before a workout or a sweet pick-me-up during the day, these bars will surely hit the spot.

What Makes This Recipe Special

These Chocolate Coconut Almond Bars stand out for several reasons. Firstly, they are made with natural ingredients that not only provide health benefits but also create a delicious flavor profile. The combination of creamy almond butter and rich dark chocolate creates a decadent treat that feels indulgent yet is wholesome. Plus, the addition of coconut gives these bars a tropical twist, making them a delightful escape from everyday snacks. With no added preservatives or refined sugars, you can feel good about enjoying these bars anytime!

Ingredient Rundown

To create these Chocolate Coconut Almond Bars, gather the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup raw almonds – These nuts provide a satisfying crunch and are a great source of healthy fats.
• 1 cup unsweetened flaked coconut – Adds texture and a subtle sweetness.
• 12 plump medjool dates, pitted – These natural sweeteners give the bars their delicious caramel-like flavor.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1/4 cup coconut oil – Helps bind the ingredients together while adding a creamy texture.
• 2 cups unsweetened flaked coconut – A double dose of coconut for added flavor and texture.
• 1/2 cup canned coconut milk – Adds creaminess and richness to the bars.
• 2 tablespoons honey – A natural sweetener that complements the dates.
• Pinch of salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 12 ounces dark chocolate, chopped, or semi-sweet – The star of the show, bringing a rich chocolatey flavor.
• 2 tablespoons rounded almond butter – Adds creaminess and a nutty depth.
• Cacao nibs + hemp seeds for topping (optional) – Adds a decorative touch and a boost of nutrients.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you start, make sure you have the following gear on hand:

• Food processor – Essential for blending the ingredients into a smooth mixture.
• 9×9 inch baking dish – Perfect for setting the bars.
• Parchment paper – For easy removal of the bars once set.
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl – For melting the chocolate.
• Spatula – For spreading the chocolate and pressing the mixture into the dish.

Chocolate Coconut Almond Bars: From Prep to Plate

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating these delectable Chocolate Coconut Almond Bars.

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by placing the raw almonds in your food processor. Pulse them a few times until they are coarsely chopped. You want a bit of texture in your bars, so avoid turning them into almond flour.

Step 2: Add Dates and Coconut

Next, add the pitted medjool dates and 1 cup of unsweetened flaked coconut to the food processor. Pulse again until the mixture becomes sticky and well combined. If necessary, scrape down the sides to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 3: Blend in the Wet Ingredients

Add in the vanilla, coconut oil, and a pinch of salt. Continue to pulse until everything is combined into a thick, sticky mixture.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Line your 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Pour the mixture into the dish and press it down firmly with your spatula to create an even layer.

Step 5: Make the Coconut Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the remaining 2 cups of unsweetened flaked coconut, coconut milk, and honey. Stir until well mixed. Spread this coconut mixture over the almond base in the baking dish, smoothing it out evenly.

Step 6: Melt the Chocolate

Using a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate until smooth. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between until fully melted.

Step 7: Add Almond Butter

Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the almond butter until fully combined. This creates a rich and creamy chocolate topping.

Step 8: Pour Over the Coconut Layer

Pour the chocolate mixture over the coconut layer in your baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle cacao nibs and hemp seeds on top for added texture and nutrition.

Step 9: Chill and Set

Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for about 2 hours or until the chocolate has completely set. Once solid, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and cut them into squares.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Your Chocolate Coconut Almond Bars are ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for a quick snack later.

Tailor It to Your Diet

These bars are versatile and can easily be tailored to fit various dietary needs:

• Nut-Free: Substitute the almonds and almond butter with sunflower seeds and sunflower seed butter.
• Vegan: Ensure that the honey is replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you’re all set!
• Low-Sugar: Reduce the number of dates or omit the honey for a lower sugar content.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

While making your Chocolate Coconut Almond Bars, here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Mixture Too Dry: If your mixture is not sticking together well, add a bit more coconut oil or a few extra dates to help bind it.
• Chocolate Seizing: When melting chocolate, be sure to avoid letting any water come into contact with it, as this can cause it to seize up.
• Bars Not Setting: If your bars are too gooey after chilling, they may need more time in the refrigerator to fully firm up.

Shelf Life & Storage

To keep your Chocolate Coconut Almond Bars fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reader Q&A

Can I use other nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any nuts you prefer or have on hand, such as walnuts, pecans, or cashews.

Can I make these bars without coconut?

While coconut adds a unique flavor and texture, you can substitute it with additional nuts or seeds if you prefer a coconut-free version.

How can I make these bars more chocolatey?

You can mix in chocolate chips into the base or increase the amount of chocolate used for the topping for an extra chocolatey flavor.

Is there a way to make these bars lower in calories?

To lower the calorie content, consider reducing the amount of coconut oil and using less chocolate. You can also use a sugar substitute in place of honey.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

If you love these Chocolate Coconut Almond Bars, you might also enjoy:

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Sweet Potato Casserole
• Vegan Chocolate Cake
• Strawberry Shortcake

Time to Try It

Now that you have the recipe for these luscious Chocolate Coconut Almond Bars, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get to work! Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, these bars are sure to impress with their rich and satisfying flavors.

Enjoy the process, and happy baking!