Healthy Almond Joys – Easy 6-Ingredient Recipe in 20 Minutes
Introduction
Have you ever craved the nostalgic flavor of Almond Joys but hesitated because of all the refined sugar and preservatives in store bought candy? What if we told you that you could make Healthy Almond Joys at home in just 20 minutes using only 6 wholesome ingredients?
This isn’t just another DIY candy bar—these Homemade Almond Joys are refined sugar free, gluten free, and packed with healthy fat from coconut oil and raw almonds. Using simple pantry staples like maple syrup, dark chocolate, and coconut butter, you can create a snack that’s both indulgent and nourishing. These Healthy Almond Joys are the perfect quick-fix treat for busy parents who want low sugar treats for their kids. Let’s dig in and learn how to make your own batch of Healthy Almond Joys!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make these Healthy Almond Joys or Almond Joy Bars:
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut or coconut flakes
- 1/4 cup coconut butter (substitute: coconut manna)
- 3 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tbsp coconut flour (adds structure)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 10-12 whole almonds (or roasted almonds/crunchy almonds)
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped baking chocolate
- 1 tsp coconut oil or refined coconut oil
- Optional: pinch of salt, sea salt flakes for topping
Substitution Tips:
- Use soy milk or almond milk to thin the coconut layer if too thick.
- Swap coconut butter with coconut manna or a blend of coconut flour and almond extract for a creamier bite.
- Try adding pitted dates or Medjool dates to sweeten naturally.
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
That’s 30% faster than most homemade Almond Joy Candy Bars recipes that clock in at over 30 minutes. These Healthy Almond Joys are perfect for quick prepping any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Coconut Base
In a food processor or high speed blender, combine shredded coconut, coconut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and coconut flour. Blend until mixture becomes sticky and forms a dough.
Step 2: Shape into Bars
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small rectangles or ovals (aka almond joy shaped rectangles). Press a whole almond or roasted almond into the center of each bar. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper.
Step 3: Freeze to Firm
Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer for about 10 minutes to let the bars firm up.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt dark chocolate with a teaspoon of coconut oil until smooth. Stir until glossy.
Step 5: Dip and Drizzle
Dip each bar into the melted chocolate, coating it fully. Let excess chocolate drip off before placing it back on the sheet. Add a light chocolate drizzle and a sprinkle of sea salt or pinch of salt.
Step 6: Chill Again
Return to the freezer for another 5–10 minutes until the chocolate shell hardens. Once done, your Healthy Almond Joys are ready to enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Each serving (1 bar) provides approximately:
- Calories: 170
- Fat: 11g (mostly healthy fat from coconut & almonds)
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Use vegan chocolate chips or dark dairy-free chocolate chip to make this recipe Dairy Free.
- Add a touch of cacao powder or cocoa powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
- Replace maple syrup with agave nectar or blended dates for low sugar treats.
- Add chopped dried fruit, candied ginger, or orange peel for unique flavor boosts.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled for the perfect summer snack.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- Add to trail mix for a chocolate-coconut protein boost.
- Plate with pistachio fig cacao fudge or Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Balls for an epic treat board.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Too runny base: Add more coconut flour to fix consistency.
- Chocolate cracking: Ensure bars are not overly frozen when dipping.
- Oily topping: Let chocolate cool slightly before dipping.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Store in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freeze in a ziplock bag or freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Use a mini muffin tin or Silicone Bar Mold for uniform shape and easier storing.
Conclusion
These Healthy Almond Joys deliver all the nostalgic flavor of Almond Joy Candy Bars with none of the processed sugar or guilt. Packed with healthy fat, easy to make, and perfectly customizable, they’re a crowd-pleaser and meal-prep favorite. Make your own Healthy Almond Joys for the whole family!
Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to leave a review, comment below, or subscribe for more healthy sweets!
FAQs
Can I make these without a food processor?
Yes! Use a high-speed blender or mix by hand, though the texture may be less smooth.
Are these really gluten-free?
Yes, they are 100% gluten free when using certified ingredients.
What if I don’t have coconut butter?
You can use coconut manna, or blend coconut flakes until smooth to create your own.
Can I use store bought chocolate chips?
Absolutely. Opt for vegan chocolate chips or store bought chocolate chips with minimal ingredients.
What’s the difference between Almond Joys and Mounds?
Mounds candy bars lack the almond—so these DIY bars are the best of both worlds!
Are these suitable for kids?
Yes! These almond joy bites are refined sugar free, customizable, and perfect for lunchboxes.
How do I avoid them melting in summer?
Keep them stored in an air-tight container in the fridge or frozen in a ziplock bag until ready to serve.
Are these the same as Homemade Vegan Almond Joy Candy Bars?
They’re a no-bake twist on Homemade Vegan Almond Joys with fewer ingredients and quicker prep time—ideal for busy parents!
Is this part of candy week?
Yes! Celebrate candy week with these guilt-free sweets under the porch light with the family.
Where can I find more recipes like this?
Check out Gutsy Baker and try recipes like Skinny Dipped almonds or Baby Ruth’s inspired bites!