Coconut Almond Bars (Gluten Free)
These delicious and healthy coconut almond bars are sure to please everyone! They are gluten free, refined sugar free, and dairy free, yet full of flavor. Who knew a dessert could be so nourishing and nutrient packed.
What are the ingredients in these Coconut Almond bars and why are they so healthy?
Organic Rolled Oat: Organic oat flour is a delicious and healthy replacement for traditional refined flour. Oat flour can be made by simply blending organic rolled oats into a flour. It is a great source of soluble fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins and minerals. However it is important to purchase organic oats since non-organic oats are often contaminated with glyphosate. And since this recipe is gluten free, it is important to buy “gluten free” oats since oats are often cross-contaminated with gluten.
Almonds: Ground up almonds help form the crust of these coconut almond bars. Almonds are high in antioxidants, vitamin E, protein, and fiber. They may have health benefits, including supporting heart health and reducing blood pressure, among others.
Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is healthy replacement for any kind of refined seed oils such as canola oil, vegetable oil, etc. Coconut oil is a rich source of Antioxidants and Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are a type of saturated fat known for its health benefits.
Maple Syrup: This recipe uses maple syrup instead of refined sugar. Maple syrup is a healthier choice when it comes to sweeteners, as it is far less processed. It is also rich in certain minerals and antioxidants. However, it does still contain a high sugar content, so it’s important to enjoy in moderation.
Coconut: Shredded unsweetened coconut is the cornerstone of this recipe . Coconuts are low in carbs and high in fiber and fat. They also contain beneficial minerals, powerful antioxidants, and have antibacterial effects.
Almond Butter: The gooey layer of almond butter in these bars is what makes them so decadent. Almond butter is high in monounsaturated fats. Monounsaturated fats help to lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol. However, I don’t personally consider almond butter a health food necessarily, as it is higher in inflammatory omega 6 fatty acids. So I always recommend enjoying almond butter and other nut butters in moderation. The thin layer of almond butter in this recipe goes a long way!
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I hope you give these Coconut Almond bars a try! They are full of flavor and so satisfying!
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Gluten Free Coconut Almond Bars
Ingredients
Base layer
- 1 1/4 cup organic rolled oats
- 1/3 cup almonds
- 1 1/2 tbsp melted coconut oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Filling
- 2 cups finely shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 3 tbsp melted coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1/4 tsp salt
Topping
- 3/4 cup almond butter
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- handful of chopped almonds
Instructions
- Blend all of the base ingredients in a food processor or blender. Then spread out evenly in a small (6×8) glass baking dish or bread pan lined with parchment paper. Use your fingers or a spatula to press down firmly into the bottom of the pan
- Bake at 350 degrees F for 14 mins. Then remove from the oven and allow to cool
- While the base layer is baking, blend together all of the filling ingredients. Spread out evenly on top of the base layer to make the 2nd layer.
- Place in the freezer for 15 mins to cool
- Melt the chocolate using a double boiler. Or you can make your own double boiler by simply boiling a small amount of water in a small saucepan. Then place the chocolate chips in a small glass or metal bowl that fits in/on top of the saucepan. Allow the chocolate to melt slowly and then remove from heat immediately.
- Remove the bars from the freezer and top with the almond butter followed by the melted chocolate. Then sprinkle the chopped almonds on top
- Place back in the fridge to set for 20 mins. Then enjoy!
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