Imagine biting into a delectable, guilt-free treat that captures the essence of a classic key lime pie without turning on your oven. These homemade Larabars are not just a snack; they're a culinary adventure that transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into a zesty, refreshing experience that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. Perfect for health-conscious foodies, busy professionals, and anyone craving a quick, nutritious indulgence, these bars are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup dates, pitted
- 1 cup almonds
- 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by ensuring dates are pitted and measuring out all components precisely.
- In a food processor, add almonds and pulse until they are finely chopped but not completely powdered, creating a coarse texture.
- Add pitted dates to the food processor and pulse until the mixture begins to clump together and forms a sticky consistency.
- Incorporate unsweetened coconut flakes, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and salt into the food processor. Blend until all ingredients are well combined and form a cohesive mixture.
- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and use clean hands or a spatula to press the mixture firmly and evenly, ensuring a compact and smooth surface.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes to allow the bars to set and firm up.
- Remove from refrigerator and lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang.
- Cut into 12 equal rectangular bars using a sharp knife.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or at room temperature for 3-4 days.
Tips
- Use Medjool dates for the best texture and natural sweetness - they're softer and more sticky, which helps bind the bars.
- For a more intense lime flavor, use fresh lime juice and zest rather than bottled juice.
- Toast the almonds lightly before processing for an enhanced nutty flavor.
- Make sure not to over-process the almonds; you want a slightly coarse texture for better mouthfeel.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a teaspoon of water to help it bind.
- Use a piece of plastic wrap or the back of a spatula to press the mixture evenly in the pan for uniform bars.
- Chill the bars thoroughly before cutting to ensure clean, crisp edges.
- For variations, you can swap lime zest with other citrus zests or add a pinch of vanilla extract.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
