These Whole30 Almond Joy Bars are a delightful treat that combines the nostalgia of a classic candy bar with a health-conscious twist. Packed with wholesome ingredients, they're perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without compromising your diet.
Almonds provide a crunchy base and are full of healthy fats and proteins. Unsweetened shredded coconut adds a lovely texture and tropical flavor, while pitted dates naturally sweeten the bars and help hold them together. Cocoa powder gives that irresistible chocolate flavor. Melted coconut oil binds everything smoothly, and vanilla extract enhances the richness. Finally, a touch of sea salt balances the flavors.
These bars are a fantastic snack on their own, but you can also crumble them over a bowl of Greek yogurt for a hearty breakfast. They pair wonderfully with a fresh fruit smoothie or a homemade almond milk latte for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Start by lining an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the bars later. Next, place your almonds in a food processor and pulse them until they are finely chopped. You’re looking for a crumbly texture, not almond flour.
Add the shredded coconut, pitted dates, cocoa powder, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and sea salt to the processor. Blend everything together until you achieve a well-combined and sticky mixture. You might need to scrape down the sides a couple of times to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
Transfer this sticky mixture to your prepared pan. Using a spatula or your hands, press it down firmly to create an even layer. This step is crucial for ensuring the bars hold their shape once set.
Pop the pan into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour. This allows the bars to firm up and makes slicing them a breeze. Once set, remove from the fridge and cut into bars. Now they’re ready to enjoy!
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