Almond Joy Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Almond Joy Bars are a delightful homemade treat that perfectly combine creamy coconut filling, crunchy almonds, and a rich chocolate coating. They capture the classic candy bar flavor with fresh ingredients and a satisfying texture.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 2 tablespoons salted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted (plus more for dusting/shaping candies)
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 60 whole almonds
• 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
• 4.5 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided (such as Crisco)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium mixing bowl, use a handheld mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment on medium speed to cream together the softened cream cheese, salted butter, and coconut extract until smooth.
2. Step 2: Beat in 2 cups of the sifted powdered sugar until fully incorporated. Add the remaining 2 cups and beat again until all the powdered sugar is mixed in and the mixture is smooth and thick.
3. Step 3: Stir the sweetened shredded coconut into the cream cheese mixture until evenly combined.
4. Step 4: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour to firm up the mixture.
5. Step 5: Line two 9×13-inch rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a 1½-inch cookie scoop, scoop out portions of the filling and shape each into a 1½-inch by 2¼-inch oval. Lightly dust your hands or the filling balls with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
6. Step 6: Place the shaped bars on the prepared baking sheets. Top each bar with two whole almonds.
7. Step 7: Freeze the trays for 1-2 hours until the bars are very firm, which will help them hold up when coated in chocolate.
8. Step 8: Melt half of the semi-sweet chocolate chips with half of the vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
9. Step 9: Dip one frozen Almond Joy bar at a time into the melted chocolate. Use a spoon to coat the top and sides evenly.
10. Step 10: Lift the chocolate-covered bar with a large dinner fork, tapping the side of the bowl to let excess chocolate drip back in.
11. Step 11: Place each dipped bar back onto the parchment paper. Use a toothpick to gently push the bars off the fork if needed to keep the chocolate smooth.
12. Step 12: Chill the trays in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes until the chocolate is set and firm.
13. Step 13: Transfer the finished bars to a serving plate or storage container. Enjoy your homemade Almond Joy Bars!

Tips & Variations

• For a nuttier flavor, try toasting the shredded coconut lightly before adding it to the mixture.
• If you prefer dark chocolate, substitute semi-sweet chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
• Use powdered sugar to keep the filling from sticking to your hands while shaping the bars.
• Make sure the bars are fully frozen before dipping in chocolate to prevent melting and breakage.

Storage

Store the Almond Joy Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—up to three months. When ready to eat, allow frozen bars to thaw briefly at room temperature or enjoy chilled directly from the fridge. Reheating is not recommended, as it may affect the texture of the chocolate and filling.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

Low-fat cream cheese may affect the texture and richness of the bars. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best creamy texture and flavor.

What can I do if my chocolate seizes while melting?

If your chocolate becomes grainy or stiff, gently stir in a small amount of vegetable oil or shortening to smooth it out. Melting the chocolate slowly in short intervals helps prevent seizing.