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30 Minutes or Less

5-Ingredient Healthy Almond Joy Bars

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healthy almond joys bars, one cut in half to show the inside.

Chewy coconut filling, crunchy whole almonds, and a smooth chocolate shell — these healthy Almond Joy bars are the homemade version of your favorite candy bar, and are soooo much better than anything you’d find at the store! Made with just 5 simple ingredients, completely no-bake, gluten-free, and dairy-free, they’re just as delicious as the real thing, but NO corn syrup or refined sugar. I make a batch every couple of weeks and keep them in the fridge for whenever a chocolate craving strikes – which, if I’m being honest, is daily.

If you’re already obsessed with my 6-Ingredient Healthy Snickers and 4-Ingredient Date Caramels, these Almond Joy bars are the next addition to your healthy candy collection. One bite and you’ll never reach for the store-bought version again!

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Almond Joy Bars

  • Just 5 ingredients! Shredded coconut, coconut oil, honey, chocolate chips, and almonds. No condensed milk, no corn syrup, no refined sugar – just simple, healthier ingredients that come together into something truly incredible.
  • No-bake and super easy. Food processor, loaf pan, freezer. That’s all the equipment you need. The most “difficult” part of this recipe is waiting for the chocolate to set – and trust me, the wait is so worth it.
  • Gluten-free and dairy-free. Naturally free of both gluten and dairy, making these bars accessible for almost everyone. Just use your favorite dairy-free chocolate chips and you’re all set.
  • Tastes just like the real thing – but WAY healthier. The chewy coconut filling, the crunch of the whole almonds, the snap of the chocolate shell – it’s all here!
  • Great for meal prep and gifting. Make a batch and keep them in the fridge all week for a ready-to-grab sweet treat. They also make the most impressive homemade gift – nobody needs to know how easy they were to make!
overhead image of healthy almond joy bars.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Don’t over-blend the coconut filling. This is the most important tip in the whole recipe. Pulse – don’t blend continuously – and stop as soon as the mixture sticks together when pressed. Over-blending will turn it into a greasy coconut paste that won’t hold its shape as a bar.
  • Press the coconut layer firmly into the pan. The more firmly you press the filling into an even layer, the cleaner and more uniform your bars will look once cut. Use the bottom of a flat measuring cup to really pack it in.
  • Freeze the coconut base before dipping. The filling needs to be completely firm and cold before you dip it in chocolate. If it’s too soft, the bars will fall apart in the chocolate. 20–30 minutes in the freezer is the minimum – longer is even better.
  • Use a fork for dipping. A fork gives you the most control when coating the bars in chocolate and lets the excess drip off cleanly. A dipping tool also works great if you have one.
  • Add a pinch of flaky sea salt on top. Completely optional, but highly recommended! A little flaky sea salt on top of the almonds takes these bars to an entirely different level.

Storage Instructions

In the fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. These bars are best served cold straight from the fridge – the coconut filling stays firm and the chocolate shell has the perfect snap.

In the freezer: These Almond Joy bars freeze beautifully! Store in an airtight container or zip-lock freezer bag for up to 2 months. Layer between sheets of parchment paper so they don’t stick together. Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before eating for the best texture, or enjoy them straight from the freezer if you like them extra firm and cold.

Note: These bars will soften and the chocolate may get a little melty at room temperature, so always store them cold. Do not leave out on the counter for extended periods!

healthy almond joys bars, one cut in half to show the inside.
5 from 1 vote

5-Ingredient Healthy Almond Joy Bars

These healthy Almond Joy bars are a 5-ingredient, no-bake copycat of the classic candy bar – chewy coconut filling, crunchy whole almonds, and a smooth chocolate shell. They're gluten-free, dairy-free, naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup, and come together in under 45 minutes with NO baking required! f you're looking for a healthy Almond Joy recipe that actually tastes like the real thing but is made with healthier ingredients, this is it!
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Equipment

  • 1 food processor
  • 1 9×4-inch loaf pan
  • 1 small bowl

Ingredients

For the coconut filling:

  • 2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil melted
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

For the chocolate layer:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil

For topping:

  • 1/2 cup whole almonds

Instructions

  • Line a 9×4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
  • Add all of the coconut filling ingredients in a food processor and pulse until the coconut is finely chopped, and the mixture sticks when pressed together (be very careful not to blend the mixture too much!).
  • Transfer the coconut mixture to your prepared loaf pan and press it into an even layer. Transfer it to the freezer for about 20-30 minutes.
  • While the coconut filling is in the freezer, prepare the chocolate layer by melting the chocolate chips and coconut oil together in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely smooth.
  • Remove the coconut bars from the freezer, and cut them into 12 squares. Dip each square into melted chocolate, then transfer them to a plate line with parchment paper. While the chocolate is still wet, place one or two almonds on top of each bar.
  • Once all bars are coated in chocolate and topped with almonds, transfer them back to the freezer to set for about 10 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened.Either enjoy the almond joy bars right away, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 17g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 11g
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30 Minutes or Less

4-Ingredient Protein Reese’s Eggs

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three protein reese's eggs stacked on top of each other.

The iconic spring time candy just got a major protein upgrade! Now I LOVE a Reese’s egg. Yes, even more than a peanut butter cup – the ratio of peanut butter to chocolate is simply so much better. But I don’t love the ingredients in a Reese’s egg. Which is exactly why I developed these protein Reese’s eggs. Just 4 ingredients, NO baking, high in protein, and super easy to make. And if you like this recipe, then you gotta give my healthy strawberry peanut butter cups a try this summer! Just as delicious and easy to make. 🙂

Why You’ll Love These Protein Reese’s Eggs

  • Just 4 ingredients. Peanut butter, vanilla protein powder, chocolate chips, and coconut oil. That’s the whole list — no powdered sugar, no fillers, no ingredients you can’t pronounce!
  • 8 grams of protein per egg. Every single egg pulls its weight. That’s more protein than most protein bars, in something that tastes like candy.
  • WAY healthier than the real thing. Store-bought Reese’s Eggs are packed with refined sugar, hydrogenated oils, and a long list of additives. These are made with real, wholesome ingredients you can actually feel good about eating.
  • No bake and SO easy. Mix, shape, freeze, dip. That’s the entire process. Prep time is under 10 minutes.
  • Perfect for Easter — or any time of year. Yes, these are egg-shaped and perfect for Easter baskets, but honestly I keep a batch in my freezer year-round. They’re that good.
  • Completely customizable. Use whatever chocolate you love — dark, semi-sweet, or sugar-free. Swap peanut butter for almond butter. Have fun and make them your own!
overhead image of protein reese's eggs with flaky salt on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much protein does each Reese’s Egg contain?

Each egg contains approximately 8 grams of protein, primarily from the vanilla protein powder and natural peanut butter. That’s a significant upgrade from store-bought Reese’s Eggs, which contain less than 3 grams of protein per egg. It also means these make a genuinely satisfying snack — not just a treat — that will actually keep you full!

Can I make these sugar-free?

Yes! This recipe is already very low in added sugar since the only sweetener comes from the protein powder and whatever is naturally present in your chocolate chips. To make them completely sugar-free, simply swap the chocolate chips for a sugar-free variety like Lily’s (sweetened with stevia) or Hu Kitchen chocolate (sweetened with coconut sugar, which is lower on the glycemic index). The peanut butter filling itself contains zero added sugar as long as you’re using an unsweetened, natural peanut butter.

What can I use instead of protein powder?

If you don’t have protein powder or prefer not to use it, there are a few great swaps. Coconut flour is the most popular alternative — use 2–3 tablespoons (it absorbs more moisture than protein powder, so use less). Almond flour also works well; use about 3–4 tablespoons for a similar texture. Keep in mind that skipping the protein powder will lower the protein content per egg significantly, but the flavor will still be delicious!

Tips for the Best Protein Reese’s Eggs

  • Use natural, drippy peanut butter. The kind where the oil separates at the top is ideal. Avoid thick, sugar-added peanut butters – they make the filling too stiff and overly sweet.
  • Don’t skip the freeze before dipping. Cold eggs = fast chocolate set = a cleaner, smoother shell. If the eggs aren’t frozen solid when you dip them, the chocolate will slide right off and pool on the parchment.
  • Add flaky sea salt on top. I know I already said it, but it genuinely takes these to another level. The saltiness against the sweet chocolate is everythingggg!
  • Use a fork for dipping. It gives you control and lets the excess chocolate drip off cleanly. If you have dipping tools, even better!
  • Make a double batch. These store in the freezer for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Future you will thank you!

More High-Protein Treats You’ll Love

Made these? I want to see them! Tag me on Instagram @samdoesherbest or TikTok @samdoesherbest — chocolate-covered creations always get a reshare. And if you loved this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below. It helps so much!

three protein reese's eggs stacked on top of each other.
5 from 1 vote

4-Ingredient Protein Reese’s Eggs

These 4-Ingredient Protein Reese's Eggs taste just like the classic Easter candy – but with 8 grams of protein per egg! Made with natural peanut butter, vanilla protein powder, chocolate chips, and coconut oil, they come together in just a few minutes with NO baking required. If you're looking for a healthy Reese's Eggs recipe that actually satisfies your chocolate-peanut butter craving, this is the one!
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Freeze Time: 28 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
Servings: 10 eggs

Equipment

  • 2 small bowls
  • 1 small baking sheet

Ingredients

Peanut butter filling:

  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter unsweetened
  • 1/3 cup vanilla protein powder

Chocolate coating:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions

  • Mix together the peanut butter and protein powder in a small bowl until a thick dough forms.
  • Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture per egg, shape into egg forms and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze the eggs for about 10 minutes, or while you make the chocolate coating.
  • Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely smooth.
  • Dip each frozen egg in melted chocolate, coat fully, tap off excess, and return to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Freeze for 10 minutes, or until the chocolate has set. Then, enjoy right away or store in the fridge for later!

Notes

  • Use natural, unsweetened peanut butter for best texture and flavor.
  • Sub coconut flour (2–3 tbsp) or almond flour (3–4 tbsp) in place of protein powder if needed.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or the freezer for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1egg | Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 13g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g
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30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Sour Apple Collagen Gummies

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Everyone loved my 3-ingredient healthy watermelon gummies so much, I knew I had to make a new flavor! Though, in the spirit of fall, I decided to go with apple this time. And let me tell you – these healthy sour apple gummies might be even better than the watermelon kind! They’re perfectly sweetened, made with NO added sugar, and rolled in a sour coating that will make your mouth water. Surprisingly easy to make in just a few simple steps, with five ingredients!

What Makes This Recipe Healthy?

  • Collagen boost: Grass-fed gelatin provides natural collagen and supports skin, hair, and joint health.
  • No refined sugars: Sweetened with monk fruit, a zero-calorie natural sweetener option.
  • Real fruit base: Apple juice + lemon add natural flavor and a dose of vitamin C.
  • Customizable & clean: No artificial dyes or preservatives—food coloring is optional and minimal.
close up image of healthy sour apple collagen gummies

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Sour Apple Collagen Gummies

  • You get chewy, flavorful candy with health benefits – NO sugar crash!
  • They’re fun for both adults and kids, and make cute additions to lunchboxes.
  • These gummies are shelf-stable (when refrigerated), portable, and great for custom flavors.
  • The sour coating adds a kick without overwhelming sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for monk fruit sweetener?
You can use erythritol, stevia blends, or allulose. Just note that some sweeteners may affect texture or shelf life slightly.

How do I prevent the sour coating from dissolving?
Toss the gummies just before serving, and store them chilled. High humidity or warmth may cause the coating to dissolve.

Can I change the flavor of this recipe?
Absolutely! Swap the apple juice for pomegranate, orange, cranberry, or other juices. Use food coloring or natural powders to adjust the color.

monk fruit sweetener for healthy sour apple collagen gummies.

I highly recommend using granulated monk fruit sweetener in this recipe for the best taste and results!

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Use low heat when dissolving the gelatin so it doesn’t clump or bubble.
  • Use silicone molds for easy removal – here’s a link to the ones I used!
  • For firmer gummies, let them chill a bit longer than 30 minutes.
  • Store gummies in the fridge in an airtight container to maintain shape and texture!
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Healthy Sour Apple Collagen Gummies

These healthy sour apple collagen gummies are a fun and nourishing twist on classic gummy candy! Made with real fruit juice, collagen-rich gelatin, and no refined sugar. Each bite is sweet, sour, and packed with skin-supporting nutrients. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and the perfect healthy snack or post-workout bite!
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Equipment

  • 1 small saucepan
  • 2 gummy molds

Ingredients

  • 1 cup apple juice
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons granulated monk fruit sweetener
  • 1/4 cup grass-fed gelatin
  • 2-3 drops green food coloring

For the sour coating:

  • 1/4 cup granulated monk fruit sweetener
  • 1/2 teaspoon citric acid optional, but will make them extra sour!

Instructions

  • Add the apple juice, lemon juice, monk fruit sweetener, grass-fed gelatin, and food coloring (if using) to a small saucepan over low heat. Whisk the mixture together until the gelatin powder has fully dissolved, about 2 minutes, then remove it from the heat.
  • Transfer the gelatin mixture to the molds, then refrigerate 30 minutes, or until the gummies are fully set. Pop the gummies out of the molds then serve/store as-is, or move on to the next step for the sour coating.
  • Mix together the monk fruit sweetener and citric acid in a bowl, then toss the gummies in the sour coating. Enjoy right away!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 35kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 4g | Sugar: 4g
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30 Minutes or Less

3-Ingredient Healthy Date Caramel Cups

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3 healthy date caramel cups stacked on top of each other.

Someone asked me recently what my favorite ingredient to bake with is and while it’s tough to choose just one, I’d say medjool dates are in my top three. They’re naturally sweet, super versatile, and great for no-bake sweet treats! Some of my most popular recipes actually feature dates as the main ingredient – like my smashed dates with peanut butter, healthy date snickers, and 5 ingredient chocolate chip date cake. When it comes to dates, the possibilities really are endless! So when I set out to create a new healthy dessert recipe, these healthy date caramel cups were a no-brainer. They’re quick and easy, made with just 3 ingredients, and there’s absolutely no baking required. I also love having a batch of these in my freezer at all times for when I’m craving a little something treat!

hand holding a healthy date caramel cup with a bite taken out.

Why You’ll LOVE These Healthy Date Caramel Cups

  • Made with only 3 clean, whole-food ingredients
  • Naturally sweetened with dates (no added sugar!)
  • Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan
  • No baking required
  • Rich, chocolatey, and deeply satisfying

What Makes This Recipe Healthy

These date caramel cups skip the refined sugars and processed fillings you’d find in store-bought candies. Medjool dates provide natural sweetness and fiber, while dark chocolate adds antioxidants. With no dairy, gluten, or unnecessary additives, they’re a more wholesome option for indulging your sweet tooth!

healthy date caramel cup with flaky sea salt on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a regular muffin tin?

Yes! You can absolutely use a standard muffin tin, just note that the caramel cups will be larger and yield fewer total cups. You may want to increase the chocolate and date caramel amounts accordingly.

What kind of chocolate should I use?

Any chocolate chips will work—dark, semi-sweet, or dairy-free depending on your dietary needs. We recommend at least 60% cacao for a richer flavor and lower sugar content.

What if my dates are too hard?

Make sure to soak them in hot water for at least 10 minutes. If they’re still tough, let them soak a bit longer or try chopping them up before blending for smoother caramel.

Storage Tips

Store your caramel cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Let frozen cups thaw for 5–10 minutes before enjoying for the best texture.

3 healthy date caramel cups stacked on top of each other.
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3-Ingredient Healthy Date Caramel Cups

These 3-ingredient healthy date caramel cups are the perfect no-bake treat – rich, chocolatey, and naturally sweetened with Medjool dates! They're vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and made with just chocolate chips, coconut oil, and dates. Whether you're craving a wholesome dessert or a midday snack, these caramel cups are healthy yet indulgent!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12 date caramel cups

Equipment

  • 1 mini muffin pan
  • 1 small bowl
  • 1 food processor or high speed blender

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Medjool dates pitted
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips I used extra dark chocolate chips
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil

Instructions

  • Soak the Medjool dates in a bowl of very hot water for 10 minutes, then line a mini muffin pan with mini liners.
  • Melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely melted and smooth.
  • Once the chocolate is melted, pour about 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate into the bottom of each mini muffin liner and use a spoon to spread the chocolate around to cover the entire bottom of the liner. Once all liners are lined with chocolate, transfer your muffin pan to the freezer to set and place the remaining melted chocolate aside for now.
  • Once the dates are very soft, drain them from the water and transfer the soaked dates to a food processor or high-speed blender and blend until they are mostly smooth, scraping down the sides of the food processor or blender as needed.
  • Spoon about 1-2 teaspoons of date caramel into each cup lined with chocolate. Repeat this process until all cups have been filled with date caramel.
  • Pour 1-2 teaspoons of melted chocolate over each date caramel cup, making sure you completely cover the date caramel inside. Once all cups are filled with chocolate, transfer the pan back into the freezer for 10-15 minutes or until the chocolate is completely set. Remove date caramel cups from the freezer, transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge or enjoy right away!

Nutrition

Serving: 1date caramel cup | Calories: 145kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 8g | Sugar: 10g
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Dairy-Free

Healthy Homemade Butterfingers

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close up image of healthy butterfingers cut in half.

This healthy homemade butterfingers recipe is made with just 5 simple ingredients! They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and naturally sweetened for a better-for-your treat. They join my healthy candy lineup, right alongside healthy snickers, 3 ingredient homemade crunch bars, and healthy date caramels. These homemade butterfingers are perfect for anyone looking for a healthier version of a favorite candy bar!

healthy homemade butterfingers on parchment paper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These healthy homemade butterfingers are a delicious and satisfying treat with just 5 simple ingredients. They’re a guilt-free version of the classic candy bar, made gluten-free, dairy-free, and with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for storing in the freezer for a quick snack or dessert.

What You Need to Make Healthy Butterfingers

  • Peanut Butter: The rich, creamy base that gives these bars their signature nutty flavor. Choose a natural variety with no added sugar for a healthier option.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: These natural sweeteners bring the perfect touch of sweetness while keeping the recipe refined-sugar free.
  • Corn Flakes: Adds the necessary crunch to replicate the crispy texture found in classic butterfingers. Make sure to choose gluten-free corn flakes if needed. The Real Cereal Organic Corn Flakes are the best ones I’ve found, they’re unsweetened and made with just 2 ingredients!
  • Chocolate Chips: Melting the chocolate for coating gives that irresistible outer layer, while dark chocolate keeps the sugar content lower.
  • Coconut Oil: Helps melt the chocolate smoothly and adds a subtle flavor boost. I use and love Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil in many of my recipes!

How to Make Healthy Homemade Butterfingers

Start by crushing the corn flakes and mixing them with peanut butter and honey to form a crispy, sweet mixture. Press it into a loaf pan to set in the freezer before dipping each bar in melted chocolate. Freeze them again for a crunchy, chocolate-covered treat that’s perfect for a healthier snack or dessert.

healthy homemade butterfingers stacked on top of each other,

Storage Tips

Once made, store your homemade butterfingers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. This way, they’ll stay fresh and ready for whenever you need a sweet treat.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Vegan: Swap the honey for maple syrup and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
  • Low Carb: Choose a sugar-free chocolate alternative and use a low-carb cereal.
  • Make it Nut-Free: Substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
close up image of healthy butterfingers cut in half.
5 from 1 vote

Healthy Homemade Butterfingers

This healthy homemade butterfingers recipe is made with just 5 simple ingredients. They're gluten-free, dairy-free, and naturally sweetened for a better-for-your treat. These homemade butterfingers are perfect for anyone looking for a healthier version of a favorite candy bar!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Freezing Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 9×4-inch loaf pan
  • 1 small bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 2 cups corn flakes
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil

Instructions

  • Add the corn flakes to a large zip-top bag, seal the bag and crush the cereal into small pieces.
  • Add the peanut butter and honey or maple syrup to a large bowl and mix together to combine. Add the crushed corn flakes to the bowl and mix again to fully combine.
  • Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper, and press the cereal down into the pan to create an even layer. Place in the freezer to harden for at least 1 hour.
  • Remove the pan from the freezer and carefully lift the corn flake mixture out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and cut into 12 bars.
  • Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together, whisk to combine, and then dip each bar into the melted chocolate to completely coat. Remove the bar from the chocolate and set on a parchment-lined plate. Repeat this process with all 12 butterfingers until all are coated in chocolate.
  • Transfer the butterfingers to the freezer for about 10 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened. Then, enjoy right away or store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months (if they last that long!).

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 241kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 15g | Sugar: 12g
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