For those who love the classic Almond Joy candy bar but want to avoid the sugar and carbs, these Keto Almond Joy Bars are the perfect solution. These bars capture the essence of the traditional treat, combining a creamy coconut filling, crunchy almonds, and a smooth chocolate coating, all while remaining dairy and sugar-free. This recipe is easy to make and provides a satisfying, guilt-free indulgence.
Why Choose Keto Almond Joy Bars?
These keto-friendly bars offer a healthier alternative to traditional Almond Joy candies. They allow you to indulge in your favorite flavors without the sugar rush and subsequent crash. These bars are perfect for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet, or anyone looking to reduce their sugar intake.
Ingredients and Substitutions
The key to these Keto Almond Joy Bars lies in using the right ingredients. Here's a breakdown:
- Shredded Coconut: Unsweetened, finely grated coconut is essential for the filling. Larger flakes won't hold together as well. Avoid sweetened coconut flakes, as they can significantly increase the carbohydrate content.
- Coconut Cream: This forms the base of the creamy coconut filling. Use the thick white part from the top of a can of coconut milk, discarding the thin coconut water. Coconut cream is offered as a substitution for milk, but it is much thicker so it may change the texture.
- Coconut Oil: This adds richness and helps bind the filling. It also contributes to the chocolate coating's smooth texture.
- Sweetener: Allulose is recommended for the best texture and taste in sugar-free/keto versions. Other options include powdered sugar (if not concerned about sugar content), Swerve, Bocha Sweet, xylitol, or liquid stevia.
- Chocolate: Use sugar-free or very dark chocolate to keep the bars keto-friendly. Hu brand chocolate is a good option for Paleo and Vegan diets, as it contains no refined sugar. Opt for 85% dark chocolate for a lower sugar content.
- Almonds: Raw almonds provide the signature crunch and flavor.
- Coconut Extract: Enhances the coconut flavor in the filling.
- Optional Ingredients: Vanilla extract, salt, and xanthan gum can be added to enhance the flavor and texture.
Making the Keto Almond Joy Bars
The process involves creating a coconut filling, shaping it into bars, adding almonds, and coating them in chocolate.
Coconut Filling
- Heat coconut milk in a saucepan on low heat.
- Add coconut oil and coconut flakes.
- Stir in sweetener and almond extract.
- Optionally, add xanthan gum for a better texture.
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and pour the coconut mixture into the pan.
- Press the mixture down until it evenly covers the bottom of the pan.
- Remove the parchment paper and cut the coconut bar into 12 pieces.
Shaping the Bars
- Combine shredded coconut, coconut cream, melted coconut oil, and allulose in a bowl.
- If the mixture is too crumbly, pulse in a food processor until a dough-like mixture forms.
- Scoop the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and shape into small ovals or rectangles.
- Press an almond onto each bar.
Chocolate Coating
- Melt chopped chocolate, coconut oil, and stevia in the microwave until just melted.
- Alternatively, melt chocolate in a heat-safe measuring cup with a little coconut oil in the microwave.
- Pour about 1 teaspoon of chocolate into each well of an ice cube tray, tilting the tray to coat halfway up the sides.
- Place the coconut mixture inside the wells and press an almond on top.
- Pour a little more chocolate on top and pop it in the freezer until set.
Final Steps
- Dip each bar into the melted chocolate, coating fully using a fork.
- Refrigerate or freeze until the chocolate is hard.
- Flip bars over and coat the bottoms.
Tips and Tricks
- Finely Grated Coconut: Using finely grated, unsweetened coconut is crucial for the filling's texture.
- Melting Chocolate: Microwave the chocolate in short intervals (20-30 seconds), stirring in between, to prevent burning.
- Even Coating: Use an offset spatula or a fork to ensure the chocolate covers all sides of the bars.
- Setting Time: Allow the bars to set completely in the refrigerator or freezer before serving.
- Ice Cube Tray Method: Pour a small amount of chocolate into each well of an ice cube tray, add the filling, top with more chocolate, and freeze for easy and mess-free coating.
- Customization: Customize your ice cube tray chocolates by adding your choice of filling.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Mounds Bars: Skip the almonds for a coconut-only treat.
- Other Nuts: Try hazelnuts or macadamias instead of almonds.
- Extracts: Experiment with different extracts like vanilla or peppermint.
- Fillings: You can customize your ice cube tray chocolates into ANY kind of candy you like by adding your choice of filling!
Storing Your Keto Almond Joy Bars
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. This will help maintain their texture and flavor.
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
Serving Suggestions
These Keto Almond Joy Bars are perfect as a sweet treat any time of day. Enjoy them as a dessert, a snack, or even a fat bomb to help you reach your macros.
Other Keto Fat Bomb Recipes
If you're looking for more keto fat bomb recipes, consider these options:
- 3 Ingredient Fat Bombs
- Ice Cream Bites Snickers Fat Bombs
- Cookie Dough Bites
- Mini Brownie Bites
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto