Make up a batch on the weekend, portion individually, and enjoy as snacks all week!
When you take a good look at ordinary protein bars, chances are you’ll find just as many sources of sugar as you do protein. Not to mention many manufacturers inject their products with corn, low-quality soy protein, gum, and artificial chemicals that outweigh the benefits of their protein content. These tasty Banana Coconut Energy Bars, on the other hand, call for nothing but clean ingredients. Meanwhile, their delicious flavor puts conventional grocery brands to shame! Nourishing ingredients peanut butter and raw almonds pack a satisfying protein punch. Meanwhile, superfood gems like coconut oil and honey bind the ingredients together while delivering powerful vitamins and healthy fats your body will thank you for. Unlike the junky sugars and chemical-laden sweeteners used in storebought bars, ingredients like dried fruit, banana, and dark chocolate add a touch of sweetness to this mouthwatering recipe! These clean, chewy bars use fresh ingredients that’ll fill you up and energize your entire body.
This recipe fills a 9×13 pan, so they’re cost effective and totally worth the effort! Whip up a batch on the weekend, portion individually, and enjoy one for a pick-me-up snack throughout the week.
Banana Coconut Energy Bars
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups almonds raw
- 1/3 cup coconut oil melted but no hot
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons dried fruit chopped (apricots, dates, cranberries, etc.)
For the Filling
- 1 cup shredded coconut unsweetened
- 1/2 cup coconut cream
- 1/2 cup banana ripe, mashed
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon water
For the Topping
- 8 ounces dark chocolate chopped
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut toasted
- 2 tablespoons almonds chopped
Instructions
- Spray a 9x13 inch pan with nonstick spray.
For the Crust
- In a food processor, finely grind the nuts. A few large pieces are ok, but be careful not to over process the nuts. Add the coconut oil, honey, and dried fruit. Pulse in the processor until just combined. Transfer mix into prepared pan and press into an even layer.
For the Filling
- Combine all ingredients and mix well. Spread banana coconut mixture over the crust. Make sure the filling is as smooth as possible. Place in refrigerator while the topping is being prepared.
For the Topping
- Melt the chocolate, stirring often. Once melted, whisk in the coconut oil. Remove crust and filling layers from the refrigerator and pour chocolate over the top of the filling, spreading evenly over the top. Sprinkle coconut and almonds over the top. Refrigerate until chocolate has hardened. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
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You might also enjoy our Superfood Protein Bars or Quinoa Protein Bars.
How did this recipe turn out for you? We value your feedback! Please share your thoughts with us in the comments!
Can you substitute the coconut oil in this recipe for another oil, such as avocado?
Alyssa, Yes.
Was that a ninja food processor that was used? Im looking for a food processor and I like how that one chopped up the nuts and fruit pretty easily. What model of food processor is that. I am excited I found this recipe. I have been looking for something similar to this.
Yes, you can use any food processor you like! I personally like the Ninja because it has three blades and is great for grinding up nuts and ingredients for protein bars, but I’ve also used the Cuisinart food processor and found it to work well.
Can these be batch made and then frozen? And defrosted in the fridge as needed?
Yes! You can definitely freeze and thaw as needed!
Do you have to add the coconut cream
Helen, If not, you could use dairy cream.
Delicious, absolutely delicious!!