Healthy Almond Joy Bites

After weeks of cookies, cocktails and indulging without abandon, I decided that January 2017 needed to be a month without refined sugars. A brave move for a baker (read: sugar addict), I know, but when moderation no longer holds meaning, work has to be done.

I’ve spent the last four weeks rediscovering my love for nourishing fresh fruit, deeply caramelized root vegetables and, my ultimate favorite, homemade almond milk (if you’ve never made it, it’s a must). And, no surprise, I feel great! My skin is clearer, my energy levels are upped and my 2017 is looking peachy.

The one little hiccup? Chocolate cravings. Ohhh, how I miss dark chocolate. 

*photography by katie wahlman

 

 

That’s where these guys come in. In a month without sugar, dates have been a special indulgence. They’re naturally sweet with a deep caramel flavor; the perfect base for a refined sugar-free dessert.

Together with high-quality cocoa powder (which is chock-full of antioxidants), I knew I could create something healthful, but rich and chocolatey enough to satisfy my cravings.

The moment I bit into one of these Healthy Almond Joy Bites I was addicted. Dates add all the sweetness you need, while almonds and coconut add a hearty chew and delicious flavor.

A touch of cocoa powder and vanilla add the extra “something special”, tying everything together into a chewy, candy-like treat that, dare I say, may be even better than the real thing.

Bonus: From start to finish they take less than 30 minutes, and they require zero oven time!

Enjoy!

Check out more of Katie’s recipes in our series The Sweeter Side!