Homemade Almond Joy and Mounds Bars
Try this homemade almond joy and mounds bars recipe.
Try this homemade almond joy and mounds bars recipe.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut lightly packed
- 3 level tablespoons unrefined virgin coconut oil – this is
- 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup to keep it vegan – i used a l
- 10-11 roasted and unsalted almonds
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
- 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate chopped or broken in to small pieces if you’re using a bar – you can use either 4-ounces of bittersweet chips or one 4-ounce chocolate bar. i used a 4- ounce ghirardelli 60% bittersweet bar so i didn’t have to measure out 4oz of chips.
- Carbohydrate 12.57236963044 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 18.037598772 g
- Fiber 4.36588858293982 g
- Protein 2.03690798808 g
- Saturated Fat 14.9899005401 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -11 bar (35g)
- Sodium 38.7452790164 mg
- Sugar 8.20648104750018 g
- Trans Fat 1.0252846857832 g
- Calories 205 calories
Step-by-step
- In a food processor, process the shredded coconut, coconut oil, honey, vanilla extract, and salt until it forms a thick paste, about 2-3 minutes.
- Test the coconut mixture to see if it holds together by squeezing a small amount in your palm. It should compact nicely. If the coconut mixture doesn’t hold together well, then continue to process the mixture for 1 to 2 more minutes.
- Line a small baking sheet (one that can fit in your freezer) with parchment paper.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop out and gently press down the coconut mixture into the measuring spoon. You want a fairly level scoop here.
- Drop the tablespoon of mixture onto the lined baking sheet and then press and mold the balls into a rectangle shape. You can press and mold them on the baking sheet or in the palm of your hand, whatever is easier for you.
- Press an almond on top of the coconut rectangles to make an Almond Joy or leave as is to make a Mounds bar.
- Place the coconut rectangles in the freezer for 15 to 30 minutes, or until solid.
- Once the coconut bars are frozen, it’s time to melt the chocolate. Make sure to keep the coconut bars in the freezer until you have melted your chocolate.
- If you’re using a 4-ounce bar of chocolate, you will need to chop it up or break it up into small pieces. Place the 4-ounces of chocolate or chocolate chips into a heatproof bowl.
- Set the bowl over a pan of simmering water, (make sure that the bowl doesn’t touch the water) and melt the chocolate, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, until melted and smooth. Immediately remove the melted chocolate from the heat and give it a stir with a spatula.
- You can also melt the chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl for 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is smooth.
- When the chocolate is melted, take out the frozen bars.
- Gently insert a toothpick into a bar, and dip the bar into the melted chocolate making sure that the whole bar gets covered with chocolate.
- Lift the bar out with the toothpick and tap off any excess chocolate. Return the chocolate covered bar to the parchment paper and gently remove the toothpick from the bar.
- Repeat the process with the other remaining bars.
- Once all of the bars have been dipped into the chocolate, place them in the freezer for a few minutes to set.
- Store the bars in the refrigerator in an airtight container. These bars should keep for several days. Take the bars out for a few minutes before you consume them.
Homemade Almond Joy and Mounds Bars: A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
Oh, the sweet symphony of coconut, chocolate, and almonds! There’s something undeniably nostalgic and utterly delicious about Almond Joy and Mounds bars. That perfect balance of creamy coconut, rich chocolate, and (in the case of Almond Joys) the satisfying crunch of an almond... it's a classic for a reason. But let's be honest, those store-bought versions can sometimes leave a little to be desired. The coconut can be dry, the chocolate a bit underwhelming, and the overall experience, well, less than spectacular. That's why I decided to embark on a mission to create the ultimate homemade version – a treat that captures the essence of those beloved candy bars but with a homemade twist that elevates the flavor and texture to a whole new level.
This isn't just a recipe; it's a journey. A journey into the heart of candy-making bliss, where the simple act of combining coconut, chocolate, and almonds transforms into an explosion of flavour. Imagine biting into a perfectly formed bar: the tender, melt-in-your-mouth coconut infused with a hint of honey and vanilla, coated in a luscious layer of rich, dark chocolate. And for those Almond Joy aficionados, that perfectly roasted almond provides the delightful crunch that elevates the experience. It’s the kind of treat that makes you pause, close your eyes, and savor each and every bite. This recipe isn't just about creating a delicious candy bar; it's about crafting a moment of pure indulgence, a small slice of heaven that you can easily share (or not!).
The process itself is surprisingly straightforward. While it requires a few steps, each one is manageable and rewarding. From the satisfying whir of the food processor as the coconut mixture comes together to the elegant simplicity of dipping the frozen bars in melted chocolate, every stage is an opportunity to connect with the process and appreciate the deliciousness you're creating. It's a recipe that's perfect for a cozy afternoon baking project, a fun activity to share with friends, or even a thoughtful homemade gift. And the best part? You’ll be surprised at how easily achievable this delightful treat is, even for those who are new to baking. So gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that's as rewarding as it is delicious.
Why Homemade is Better
Beyond the sheer satisfaction of making something delicious from scratch, homemade Almond Joy and Mounds bars offer a level of control and customization that store-bought versions simply can't match. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking, opt for different types of chocolate (dark, milk, white – the possibilities are endless!), and even experiment with adding other ingredients like dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt. The ingredients themselves are another key differentiator. You'll be using high-quality, wholesome ingredients, ensuring that every bite is filled with the pure, unadulterated goodness of natural flavors. This is a treat you can feel good about indulging in, knowing exactly what went into its creation. And let's not forget the incredible feeling of accomplishment that comes with making something so delicious and satisfying entirely on your own.
Beyond the Recipe: A Treat for Every Occasion
These homemade Almond Joy and Mounds bars aren't just for casual snacking; they're incredibly versatile treats suitable for a wide range of occasions. Imagine them as a delightful addition to a holiday cookie platter, a thoughtful gift for friends and family, or a decadent dessert for a special celebration. Their rich flavor and beautiful presentation make them perfect for any gathering, big or small. They're equally appealing as an after-dinner treat, a delightful accompaniment to coffee, or even a satisfying reward after a long day. The possibilities are as limitless as your imagination!
Tips for Success
To ensure your homemade Almond Joy and Mounds bars turn out perfectly, here are a few helpful tips: Use high-quality ingredients. This is especially important when it comes to the chocolate; a good-quality chocolate will significantly enhance the overall flavor of the bars. Don't overprocess the coconut mixture. Overprocessing can result in a dry and crumbly texture. Press the bars firmly onto the baking sheet; this will help them hold their shape. Allow the bars to freeze completely before dipping them in chocolate. This will prevent the chocolate from melting and creating a messy result. And finally, have fun! The process of making these bars should be enjoyable. Relax, take your time, and savor the experience of creating something delicious.
Storage and Shelf Life
Store your homemade Almond Joy and Mounds bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cold temperature will help maintain their freshness and prevent them from melting. They’re best enjoyed chilled, so be sure to take them out of the refrigerator about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow them to soften slightly.
So, are you ready to embark on this sweet adventure? Grab your ingredients, follow the recipe, and get ready to indulge in the most delicious homemade Almond Joy and Mounds bars you've ever tasted! Happy baking!
