Print

Healthy Almond Joys Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 106 reviews

Healthy Almond Joys are a delicious and nutritious homemade treat combining a coconut base sweetened with maple syrup or honey, topped with a smooth layer of dark chocolate and a crunchy raw almond. These no-bake, freezer-set bites make for a perfect energizing snack or dessert, rich in natural flavors and free from refined sugars.

Ingredients

Units Scale

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)
  • 2 tsp coconut oil
  • Raw almonds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the coconut base: Place the shredded coconut, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, sea salt, and maple syrup or honey into a food processor. Process for about 40 seconds until the mixture becomes sticky and tacky. Be careful not to over-process as this can cause the coconut to release excess oil.
  2. Shape the base mixture: Divide the sticky coconut mixture evenly into a mini muffin pan, pressing and packing the mixture firmly and evenly into each cup’s crevice to create a compact base.
  3. Melt the chocolate topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped chocolate or chocolate chips with the coconut oil. Melt the mixture by microwaving in 30-second increments, stirring well between each until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, use a double-boiler method for melting.
  4. Add chocolate and almonds: Spoon or pour the melted chocolate over each coconut base, spreading with the back of a spoon to cover the entire surface evenly. Place one raw almond in the center of each bite, pressing it lightly into the chocolate.
  5. Freeze the bites: Place the mini muffin pan in the freezer for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the almond joys to fully set and harden.
  6. Store: Once set, remove the almond joys from the pan and store them in an airtight container in the freezer until ready to serve.

Notes

  • Use unsweetened shredded coconut to keep the recipe healthy and avoid excess sugars.
  • Maple syrup or honey can be substituted depending on your preference and dietary needs.
  • Vanilla extract and sea salt are optional but enhance the flavor complexity.
  • Ensure not to over-process the coconut base to avoid oily texture.
  • For melting chocolate, a double-boiler can be used as a gentle alternative to microwave.
  • Store almond joys in the freezer to maintain their shape and texture.