Mounds/Almond Joy bars - George

Bottom layer

3 C shredded unsweetened coconut

4 eggs

1/2 C sugar or 1/4 C maple syrup 

1 tsp vanilla flavoring or 1/2 tsp vanilla and 1/2 tsp almond flavoring

1/4 C flour

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 C almonds or walnuts (optional)

1/4 C chocolate chips (optional)

Preheat oven to 350°. 

Toast the coconut for about 4-5 minutes, or until it has turned brown. Let cool before using.

In a mixer, mix the eggs on high until creamy. Add the sugar (or maple syrup), vanilla, flour and salt and mix on medium speed until well combined. On low speed add the coconut (and almonds and chocolate chips if desired) and mix until the coconut is well mixed.

Line an 8x8 pan with parchment paper. Evenly spread the coconut mixture in the pan and bake for 17 to 18 minutes or until lightly brown. Remove from oven and let cool. 

Topping

1 1/4 C chocolate chips

1 tsp coconut oil 

1/3 C peanut butter (optional)

Put the chocolate and coconut oil (and peanut butter if using) in a microwave and melt at 30 second intervals.

Spread the chocolate on top of the bars and let cool.