Chocolate-Coconut Dandelion Energy Bars
Highlighted under: Low Calorie Recipes
I love making these Chocolate-Coconut Dandelion Energy Bars because they are packed with flavor and energy, perfect for those busy days. The combination of chocolate and coconut creates a delicious treat that satisfies my sweet tooth while providing the nutritional boost I need. I appreciate how easy it is to whip these bars together, and the dandelion adds a unique, earthy note. Each bite feels indulgent yet wholesome, making them a delightful snack for any occasion.
When I first decided to make Chocolate-Coconut Dandelion Energy Bars, I wasn't sure how the addition of dandelion greens would turn out, but it added such a lovely, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate and sweet coconut. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it's a fantastic way to incorporate leafy greens without compromising on taste.
I've experimented with different sweeteners and found that using a mix of honey and maple syrup provides just the right amount of sweetness while keeping the bars chewy. If you want a more subtle chocolate flavor, you can reduce the cocoa powder slightly, but I find the full dose delightful!
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Nutritious and delicious way to fuel your day
- Rich chocolate flavor balanced with coconut bliss
- Simple ingredients that come together in minutes
Understanding Ingredients
The key to the delightful flavor of these energy bars lies in the combination of chocolate and coconut. The cocoa powder not only provides a rich chocolatey taste but also contributes antioxidants, making these bars not just tasty but nutritious. The shredded coconut adds a pleasant texture and a hint of natural sweetness. When choosing your coconut, opt for unsweetened shredded coconut to maintain control over the sweetness in the bars.
Dandelion greens may be an unconventional addition, but they enhance the nutritional profile with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Their earthy flavor pairs beautifully with the chocolate, offering a unique twist. If dandelion greens are hard to find or not to your taste, consider substituting with spinach or Swiss chard, though this will alter the flavor slightly.
Baking Tips
It's important to allow the mixture to be pressed firmly into the baking dish. This helps the bars hold together after baking. Use a flat spatula or even the bottom of a measuring cup to press down evenly, ensuring there are no air pockets. If the mixture feels too crumbly before baking, you can add a splash of water to help bind it together, but be cautious not to make it too wet.
When it comes to baking time, be vigilant after the 15-minute mark. The bars should be set but slightly gooey in the center—they'll firm up as they cool. Overbaking may lead to hard bars, while underbaking could make them overly soft. If you're unsure, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs; this is a sign that they're done.
Ingredients
Chocolate-Coconut Dandelion Energy Bars Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 cup chopped dandelion greens
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly before preparing to bake.
Instructions
Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, salt, and chopped dandelion greens. Mix well.
Add Sweeteners
In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined.
Press into Pan
Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the dish, pressing it down firmly to form an even layer.
Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bars for about 20 minutes, or until set.
Cool and Cut
Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely before cutting them into squares.
Store the bars in an airtight container for up to a week.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add any other mix-ins like dried fruits or different seeds for variety.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These energy bars store exceptionally well, making them a great option for meal prep. Once cut into squares, wrap them individually in parchment paper or plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
If you're preparing these bars in advance for a busy week, consider making a double batch. The ingredients used are easy to scale, so simply double the amounts and bake in a larger pan. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary depending on the thickness of the bars.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with the nuts! I love adding chopped almonds or walnuts for extra crunch, but you could easily use pecans or sunflower seeds if allergies are a concern. Also, try mixing in some dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for added chewiness and natural sweetness—just be mindful of the extra moisture.
For a more decadent treat, you could drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled bars. This not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also makes them look more appealing when serving. If you're looking for a hint of spice, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or even a pinch of cayenne for an unexpected kick.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?
Yes, you can use agave syrup or a sugar substitute if you prefer.
→ How should I store the energy bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
→ Can I freeze these energy bars?
Absolutely! They freeze well, just make sure to wrap them tightly before placing them in a freezer bag.
→ Are the dandelion greens necessary?
While they add unique flavor and nutrients, you can omit them or substitute with spinach or kale.
Chocolate-Coconut Dandelion Energy Bars
I love making these Chocolate-Coconut Dandelion Energy Bars because they are packed with flavor and energy, perfect for those busy days. The combination of chocolate and coconut creates a delicious treat that satisfies my sweet tooth while providing the nutritional boost I need. I appreciate how easy it is to whip these bars together, and the dandelion adds a unique, earthy note. Each bite feels indulgent yet wholesome, making them a delightful snack for any occasion.
What You'll Need
Chocolate-Coconut Dandelion Energy Bars Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 cup chopped dandelion greens
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, salt, and chopped dandelion greens. Mix well.
In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined.
Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the dish, pressing it down firmly to form an even layer.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bars for about 20 minutes, or until set.
Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely before cutting them into squares.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add any other mix-ins like dried fruits or different seeds for variety.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 25mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 3g