Craving a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth and provides a nutritional boost? These Mocha-Almond Protein Chocolate Bars are your perfect solution. Combining the rich flavors of mocha, the crunch of almonds, and the smoothness of chocolate, these bars are a delightful blend of indulgence and nutrition.
Ingredients
Bar Base
- 300g (10.5 ounces) cottage cheese or cream cheese
- 40g (3 tablespoons) coconut butter
- 40g (2 tablespoons) honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 20g (2 tablespoons) cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 40g (1/4 cup) peanuts, finely chopped
- 40g (1/4 cup) sliced almonds
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
Chocolate Coating
- 160g (5.6 ounces) dark chocolate (at least 70% cacao)
- 40g (3 tablespoons) coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon almond extract (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan
- Line a small loaf pan (8×4 inches) with parchment paper
- Leave overhang for easy removal
- Prepare the Cheese
- If using cottage cheese, drain excess liquid
- Blend in food processor until smooth
- Skip this step if using cream cheese
- Create the Base Mixture
- Melt coconut butter in saucepan over low heat
- Remove from heat
- Add cheese, honey, vanilla, cocoa powder, espresso powder, cinnamon, and salt
- Stir until completely smooth
- Add Nuts and Texture
- Fold in chopped peanuts
- Add half the sliced almonds
- Mix in almond butter
- Ensure even distribution
- Freeze and Shape
- Pour mixture into prepared pan
- Smooth top with spatula
- Cover and freeze for 2 hours until firm
- Remove and cut into 8-10 rectangular bars
- Prepare for Coating
- Place bars on wire rack over baking sheet
- Return to freezer for 15 minutes
- Create Chocolate Coating
- Melt dark chocolate and coconut oil in double boiler
- Stir until smooth
- Add almond extract if desired
- Coat the Bars
- Dip each bar in melted chocolate
- Use forks for easy coating
- Sprinkle remaining almonds
- Place on wire rack
- Final Setting
- Refrigerate 30 minutes until chocolate sets
- Store in airtight container
Nutritional Information
Per Bar (serves 8):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Total Fat: 16g
- Sugar: 10g
Preparation Time: 30 minutes Freezing Time: 2.5 hours Total Time: Approximately 3 hours Yield: 8-10 bars
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixture
- Drain cottage cheese thoroughly for best texture
- Work quickly when coating to prevent melting
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for rich flavor
Variations and Substitutions
- Use Greek yogurt instead of cheese
- Replace honey with maple syrup
- Swap almonds with cashews or macadamia nuts
- Use white chocolate for coating
- Add protein powder for extra nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these vegan? A: Use plant-based cream cheese and maple syrup
Q: How long do they last? A: 2 weeks in refrigerator, 3 months in freezer
Q: Are these suitable for meal prep? A: Perfect for make-ahead snacks
Q: Can I omit espresso powder? A: Yes, but it adds depth to chocolate flavor
Q: Are these good post-workout? A: Great for protein and quick energy
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Keep refrigerated
- Can be made 3-4 days in advance
- Separate layers with parchment
- Thaw for 5 minutes before serving
Enjoy your delicious Mocha-Almond Protein Chocolate Bars!
