?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=almond bars are a delightful treat that combines sweet coconut and crunchy almonds. These homemade bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while providing the satisfying taste of nutty goodness. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or just indulging yourself, these Almond Joy bars will surely please your taste buds. Follow along as we explore how to make these treats and why they deserve a spot in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=almond

There are numerous reasons to adore these homemade bars. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring no baking at all. This means you can whip them up quickly, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings. Second, the combination of sweet coconut and crunchy almonds brings a delightful texture and flavor. Third, they are vegetarian-friendly, allowing everyone to enjoy without dietary concerns. Additionally, almonds are known for their health benefits, including supporting heart health and aiding in weight loss. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dessert that provides both satisfaction and nutrition. Lastly, they are perfect for meal prepping as you can store them for several days!

Ingredients for ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=almond

Gather these items:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 tablespoons salted butter, softened to room temperature
1 teaspoon coconut extract
4 cups powdered sugar, plus more for dusting/shaping candies
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
60 whole almonds
23 ounces milk chocolate chips, divided in half if you are working slowly
2 tablespoons shortening, divided in half if you are working slowly

How to Make ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=almond Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a medium mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, salted butter, and coconut extract until smooth.
Step 2: Beat in 2 cups of the powdered sugar until fully incorporated. Add the remaining 2 cups and beat again until smooth.
Step 3: Stir the sweetened shredded coconut into the cream cheese mixture.
Step 4: Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Step 5: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out a ball of filling and shape it into an oval.
Step 6: Place the shaped bars onto the baking trays and top each bar with two whole almonds.
Step 7: Freeze the tray for a minimum of 1 hour.
Step 8: Melt the milk chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments.
Step 9: Dip one frozen bar at a time into the melted chocolate.
Step 10: Lift the chocolate-coated bars out and let excess chocolate drip off.
Step 11: Place each dipped bar back onto the parchment paper.
Step 12: Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set the chocolate.
Step 13: Store or serve the Almond Joy bars.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=almond

Keep these in mind:

Use powdered sugar to prevent sticking when shaping the bars.
Ensure the chocolate is fully melted for a smooth coating.
For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate.

Best Ways to Serve ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=almond

These delicious bars are great on their own, but you can enhance your serving options. Try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Alternatively, serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea to create a delightful snack break. They also make fantastic gifts, beautifully wrapped for any occasion!

How to Store and Reheat ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=almond

To keep your Almond Joy bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week, making them perfect for meal prep. If you want to freeze them, wrap each bar individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a sweet treat anytime!

Frequently Asked Questions About ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=almond

What’s the secret to perfect ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=almond?

The secret lies in the balance of ingredients. Using high-quality chocolate and ensuring your cream cheese is well softened will lead to a better texture and flavor.

Can I make ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=almond ahead of time?

Yes! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them properly in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=almond?

To avoid common mistakes, be sure to chill your mixture adequately before shaping. This helps prevent the bars from falling apart and ensures they hold their shape.

Variations of ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=almond You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations! You can use raw almonds instead of roasted for a different texture. Additionally, consider making almond flour bars for a gluten-free option. You can also add a layer of almond butter for a rich twist!

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For more information on the health benefits of almonds, check out this Healthline article.

Additionally, if you’re interested in meal prepping, you can find tips on meal prep strategies here.

Lastly, for a deeper dive into the nutritional value of coconut, visit this research article.