Apricot and Coconut Bars are quickly and easily made and are a great healthy option when you’re in need of an energy boost. These no-bake bars are free of refined sugar, are vegan and gluten-free. As well, they are made with ingredients which are easily found in the supermarket.
Ingredients
For the base
- 1 1/2 cups oats
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For the apricot filling
- 2 cups dried apricots, soaked in hot water for 15 minutes and drained
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, blend the oats until they form a coarse flour-like consistency.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the oat flour, almond flour, shredded coconut, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish to form an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
- While the base is cooling, prepare the apricot filling. In a food processor, blend the soaked apricots, water, lemon juice, and maple syrup until you get a smooth and thick paste.
- Spread the apricot filling evenly over the cooled oat base.
- Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and let it set for at least 2-3 hours, or until the filling is firm.
- Once the bars are set, carefully lift them out of the baking dish using the parchment paper as handles. Place them on a cutting board and slice into bars of your desired size.
- Store the apricot and coconut bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 200-220 calories per bar.
- Total Fat: 10-12g
- Saturated Fat: 6-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 3-4g
- Sugar: 15-18g (natural sugars from apricots and sweeteners)
- Protein: 3-4g
- Sodium: 5-10mg