Paleo Samoa Bars

These gluten-free, dairy-free, and paleo friendly Samoa bars will be sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! Coconuts are known to be rich in fiber, increase energy levels, improve levels of good cholesterol, and help with weight loss. Substituting almond flour for traditional wheat flour in this dessert is a great alternative, as it is gluten-free and low in carbohydrates. Almond butter is rich in fiber, calcium, and magnesium. Using maple syrup as a sweetener provides antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins to this sweet treat. Drizzle on some dark chocolate and toasted coconut and enjoy!

Ingredients:

Yields 16 bars

• 1 cup almond flour

• 2 ¼ cup coconut, shredded

• 1 cup toasted coconut, shredded (for topping)

• ½ cup almond butter

• ⅔ cup maple syrup

• ¾ cup coconut oil

• 3 oz dark chocolate

Instructions:

1) Line a 9 x 5 baking dish with parchment paper.

2) Combine 1 cup coconut (non-toasted), almond flour, 3 tbsp maple syrup, and ⅓ cup of melted coconut oil in a bowl to create the crust.

3) Place well-combined crust into pan and place in freezer for 10-15 minutes.

4) Combine almond butter, 3 tbsp of coconut oil, and the remaining amount of maple syrup and coconut (non-toasted) to create caramel layer. Remove dish from freezer and pour caramel on top. Place dish back into the freezer for another 10-15 minutes.

5) Combine the dark chocolate and remaining coconut oil in a small stove pot and warm until fully melted.

6) Remove dish from freezer and drizzle chocolate over the top. Sprinkle on toasted coconut. Place dish back into the freezer for 5-10 minutes.

7) Once hardened, remove dish from freezer, slice into 16 squares, and enjoy!