Almond Joy Protein Bars (V, GF)

Straightforward-to-make almond joy protein bars that taste like their candy bar namesake! They have 7 grams protein and are no-bake, vegan, gluten-free, oil-free, and 126 calories each.

I’ll be the first to admit it: this is a pandering post.

I know good and well that others share my affection/weakness for the combination of chocolate, coconut and almonds, so I am wagering that the recipe name for these bars will catch your attention.

But now that I have concocted and eatenonetwo of these protein treats, I am certain that it will be theflavor and textureof these high-protein, low-sugar sweets that willholdyour attention.

Recipe Benefits

• High protein (7 grams per bar)
• High fiber (4 grams per bar)
• No bake (and straightforward to make!)
• Vegan (egg-free, dairy-free)
• Gluten-free
• Only 126 calories per bar

Ingredients

The exact amounts of each ingredient are indicated in the recipe card at the end of the post.Toggle betweenUS Customary(volume) andMetric(weights) for preferred measurement option.

• canned chickpeas
• nondairy milk, I used almond
• smooth almond butter
• almond extract
• vegan vanilla protein powder, (I used rice protein powder)
• coconut flour
• semisweet chocolate chips
  • Optional topping: chopped roasted almonds
  • Optional topping: unsweetened shredded coconut

Almond butterand coconut flour contribute true almond and coconut flavor in addition to solidifying power: the coconut flour takes the mixture from a wet hummus-like mixture to a firm dough, while the almond butter helps to further harden the pucks once they are chilled.

Step by Step Instructions

Note that the complete instructions are also in the recipe card below.

• In a blender or food processor, process the drained and rinsed chickpeas, nondairy milk, almond butter and almond extract until blended and completely smooth.
• Add the protein powder and coconut flour; pulse until blended into a thick dough.
• Divide dough into 10 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and press into a muffin cup f a standard size muffin tin.. Use the bottom of a small measuring cup to press flat and smooth.
• Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until firm.
• Drizzle or spoon tops with melted chocolate and, if desired, sprinkle with coconut and almonds.
• Chill the bars for an additional 5 to 10 minutes to set the chocolate. Remove the bars from the muffin tin.

Taste and Texture of the Almond Joy Protein Bars

These taste like luxury candy bars, sans the sugar rush and high calories. In their place, a significant dose of plant protein and micro-nutrients for a measly 126 calories.

Taste the joy!

FAQ

• How should I store the bars?Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1 week, or the freezer for 6 months. These will keep at room temperature for up to a day while you tote them around (so long as it is not boiling hot).
• What can I use in place of almond butter?An equal amount of another nut butter or seed butter (e.g., cashew butter,sunflower seed butter, orpumpkin seed butter)can be used in place of the almond butter.
• Can I add chocolate chips?Yes! Instead of topping with chocolate, you can instead stir 3 tablespoons miniature semisweet chocolate chips (or chopped semisweet chocolate) into the dough before shaping.