Indulge guilt-free with this Heart-Healthy Homemade Almond Joy recipe, a reimagined twist on the classic candy bar that delivers wholesome ingredients without sacrificing flavor. Made with unsweetened shredded coconut, creamy coconut oil, pure maple syrup, and a touch of vanilla extract, these bars boast a naturally sweet and satisfying base. Topped with crunchy whole almonds and enveloped in antioxidant-rich dark chocolate, they offer a perfect balance of texture and taste. A pinch of sea salt enhances the rich, nutty flavors for a gourmet finish. Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal effort, these homemade treats are gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with heart-healthy fats, making them an ideal snack or dessert for health-conscious foodies. Serve them chilled straight from the fridge or freeze for long-lasting enjoyment! Perfect for anyone seeking a healthier spin on a nostalgic favorite.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened shredded coconut, melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is well-combined and holds together.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Form the coconut mixture into small, rectangular bars, approximately 2 inches in length, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Press one almond gently into the top of each coconut bar, ensuring it slightly sticks into the coconut mixture. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up.
Meanwhile, melt the dark chocolate using a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently until smooth.
Remove the coconut bars from the freezer. Dip each bar into the melted dark chocolate using a fork, ensuring each bar is completely coated, then returning it to the parchment-lined sheet.
If desired, sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on top of each chocolate-covered bar for an added flavor boost.
Place the bars back into the freezer for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set and firm.
Store the Heart-Healthy Homemade Almond Joy bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for longer storage.
Calories |
1880 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 151.8 g | 195% | |
| Saturated Fat | 106.6 g | 533% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 234 mg | 10% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 117.8 g | 43% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 32.9 g | 118% | |
| Total Sugars | 65.6 g | ||
| Protein | 21.1 g | 42% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 204 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 21.0 mg | 117% | |
| Potassium | 1725 mg | 37% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.