Healthy Dark Chocolate Almond Joy Bites
User Reviews
4.9
Healthy Dark Chocolate Almond Joy Bites
Description
These bites are prepared by processing pitted Medjool dates with whole almonds, shredded coconut, natural unsweetened cocoa powder, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until crumbly but cohesive. Adjusting the processing time controls texture, allowing a coating of small pieces or a finer texture. If the mixture is too dry, adding a small amount of water or melted coconut oil helps bind it. The mixture is then formed into tablespoon-sized balls, yielding soft, chewy bites reminiscent of Almond Joy candy flavor in a wholesome form.
The combination of naturally sweet dates and toasted almonds with shredded coconut and cocoa gives a rich taste without refined sugars or baking. These bites serve well as snacks or quick energy bites, easy to store covered in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Substitutions include using sweetened coconut if preferred, and swapping whole almonds for slivered or sliced almonds with volume adjustments. The recipe’s simplicity makes it flexible for variations within similar ingredient profiles.
Ingredients
- 6 ounces Medjool dates about 1 cup or 10-12 dates, or other soft dates, pitted
- 1 cup almonds unsalted, whole, roasted is fine
- ½ cup shredded coconut sweetened or unsweetened
- ½ cup natural cocoa powder unsweetened or Dutch-process, half of each
- 1 to 2 to 2 tablespoons coconut oil no need to melt, extra-virgin
- ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
- Pinch salt optional
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients together in a food processor and process until the ingredients are finely chopped and the mixture is crumbly (the exact amount of mixing depends on how coarse or fine you want the mixture). The mixture should hold together when a small amount is pressed or rolled. If it's too crumbly, add a tablespoon of water (or melted coconut oil) and process again until it comes together more easily.
- Roll the mixture into tablespoon-size balls (I use a #60 cookie scoop for easy portions). Enjoy immediately or store covered in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
- Unsweetened shredded coconut is preferred, but sweetened coconut may be used for extra sweetness.
- Whole almonds give texture, but sliced or slivered almonds can be substituted, adjusting volume if measured by cup.
- Store finished bites covered in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 24Bites
Amount Per Serving
Calories kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1 Bite | |
| Calories | 75kcal | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 8g | 3% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 5g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Sodium | 1mg | 0% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 5g | 10% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.