Homemade healthy almond butter Mars bars {Vegan, Raw, Paleo, Gluten, Dairy, Sugar free}

I must admit that Halloween is not exactly my favorite time of year. While I hate dressing up and am petrified of horror movies the one thing I do love about Halloween is all the food of course. Like Christmas it is one of those times of year when it is perfectly acceptable to indulge in a sweet treat or three…… These homemade healthy almond butter Mars bars definitely fall into the category of three or more. One bite and I guarantee you will be hooked or in my case once I tasted the mixture I knew that this was going to be a small batch I love recreating people’s favorite confectionery delights and when they are mid way through demolishing them just casually mentioning that they are healthy. If they weren’t already halfway through the batch before this little bit of enlightenment they probably are now! Although I must say from past experience don’t mention the word dates at least not until they have taken a few bites. Mars bars are definitely a personal favorite with their generous layers of morish nougat and buttery caramel all enrobed in smooth chocolate this is hardly surprising. This version below is just as addictive if not dare I say it even more so!. The thick layer of chewy almond butter rich nougat and creamy golden caramel covered in slightly dark chocolate leaves a shop bought Mars bar in the cold. I wouldn’t expect any leftovers if I were you! Almonds are one of the worlds most popular nuts and this shouldn’t come as a surprise due to their stellar nutritional profile.They are a rich source of an array of vitamins and minerals as well as protein, anti oxidants and heart healthy fats. The majority of the fat found in almonds is monounsaturated fat which is famed for its ability to promote good general cardiovascular health as well as lower levels of LDL or “bad” cholesterol. In addition almonds are a great plant source of calcium which is vital to maintain strong bones as well as healthy teeth. Almonds also contain other minerals such as magnesium and phosphorous which also promote optimum bone health.

Homemade healthy almond butter Mars bars {Vegan, Raw, Paleo, Sugar free}

Author: Aoife Howard

Recipe type: Dessert

Serves: Makes 6

Ingredients

½ cup smooth almond butter
¼ cup raw honey or maple syrup
3 tbsp coconut flour
½ cup Medjool dates soaked overnight
¼ cup unsweetened almond milk
1 tsp smooth almond butter
⅓ cup coconut oil melted
¼ cup raw honey or maple syrup
¼ cup raw cacao powder

Instructions

For the first layer which is the nougat layer combine the almond butter and maple syrup or honey.
This is best done in a food processor to get the smoothest nougat but you can also mix these my hand in a bowl.
Gradually add in the coconut flour mixing it frequently.
Spread this into a prepared baking tin and place in the fridge to firm up.
Meanwhile make your caramel layer by draining the soaked dates and adding to the bender or food processor along with the 1 tbsp of almond milk.
Blend on a high power and gradually add in the almond milk.
You may need less or more depending on how soft your dates are so add it in gradually.
The thicker your caramel the better, you don't want a runny caramel as this will make it a bit messier to dip in chocolate.
Remove your nougat layer from the fridge and pour the caramel over the first layer place in the freezer for 15-20 minutes.
Gently warm your honey or maple syrup in a saucepan on a very low heat.
Take off the heat and add in your coconut oil and cacao powder.
Whisk gently to ensure a very smooth chocolate.
Now for the best part; dipping your bars in chocolate!
Remove the tin from the freezer.
Cut your bars into 6 smaller bars, you may need to let them thaw slightly before doing this or else dip a sharp knife in boiling water.
Dip your bars in the chocolate mixture as evenly as possible.
Place the bars in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to firm up the chocolate coating.
Remove from the freezer 5 minutes before serving and enjoy!