Healthy Almond Joys Recipe
Delicious and wholesome Healthy Almond Joys are a guilt-free twist on the classic candy bar, made with natural ingredients like shredded coconut, maple syrup, and dark chocolate. These homemade treats are perfect for anyone craving a sweet snack without the refined sugars and additives.
- Author: Naya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 mini Almond Joys 1x
- Category: Snacks, Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Freezing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Coconut Base
- 3 cups unsweetened finely shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 3 tbsp melted coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional but recommended)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional but recommended)
Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup chocolate bars, chopped (or chocolate chips, see post for recommendations)
- 2 tsp coconut oil
Garnish
- Make the coconut base: Combine the shredded coconut, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, sea salt, and maple syrup in a food processor. Process for about 40 seconds to create a sticky, tacky mixture. Be careful not to over-process as this can cause the coconut to release too much oil.
- Form the base layer: Divide the coconut mixture evenly among the cavities of a mini muffin pan. Press the mixture down firmly and pack it tightly into each mould to form a solid base.
- Melt the chocolate: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped chocolate bars (or chocolate chips) and coconut oil. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, use a double boiler to melt the chocolate gently.
- Assemble the Almond Joys: Spoon the melted chocolate over each coconut base, covering it entirely. Use the back of a spoon to smooth out the surface. Place one raw almond in the center of each treat.
- Freeze to set: Place the mini muffin pan in the freezer for 3 to 4 hours until the chocolate and coconut base are firm. Once set, remove the Almond Joys from the pan and store them in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use unsweetened shredded coconut for the healthiest option and to avoid added sugars.
- If you want a sweeter treat, choose honey instead of maple syrup.
- Do not over-process the coconut base to prevent the mixture from becoming oily and runny.
- For melting chocolate without a microwave, a double boiler works best for gentle heat and smooth results.
- Store these treats in the freezer as the coconut oil makes them soft at room temperature.
- You can substitute almonds with other nuts like pecans or hazelnuts according to preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini Almond Joy (approx. 20g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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