Healthier Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Last updated July 19, 2024

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars check a lot of boxes.

• Delicious. These bars somehow bridge the gap between “coconut lovers” and “chocolate peanut butter lovers”, even for those who don’t normally love coconut, and those who don’t normally love peanut butter and chocolate together. I know, weird, but those people do exist and they’re some of my taste testers.

• Healthier than most desserts. I would (and did) unabashedly eat these for breakfast. They’re full of nuts and coconut, and only use coconut oil, depending on which camp you fall in as far as viewing coconut oil as a good medium-chain fatty acid or simply another saturated fat.

• No bake. Great for summer, if you don’t have an oven available to you, or simply don’t want to turn it on.

• Easy. These can be ready in less than 30 minutes, quick and satisfying to whip up, with most of the work done in a food processor.

• Satisfying. With the protein and fat content, these will keep you satisfied for longer. When you’re satisfied, you’re less likely to keep reaching for other unhealthy foods or overeating.

• Gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, egg-free, and almost refined sugar-free (there’s sugar in chocolate chips, which are in the chocolate topping.)

If those aren’t enough reasons to love these bars, I have one more. You don’t have to grease your baking dish! I know, that’s a little thing, but it’s a small kitchen task I don’t overly enjoy, and the fact that these bars slide ride out of an ungreased pan is a small yippee from me!

Another reason I like these, is because they don’t call for dates. Don’t get me wrong, I love dates, but it’s nice to have a healthy dessert recipe that doesn’t call for dates since so many do. I don’t always have dates on hand, and this way I can still whip up a healthier dessert/snack without waiting for my next grocery run. That makes this recipe’s ingredient list pretty close to being all pantry staples.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links, Jennyblogs may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps to support Jennyblogs. Where possible, links are prioritized to small businesses, and American companies and products made in the USA for American readers. For further information see the privacy policy. Grazie!

Recipe inspired by Dani’s Healthy Eats

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Healthier Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Serves about 16

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Coconut Crust

• 1 1/2 cups / 120g shredded unsweetened coconut

• 6 Tbsp / 120g maple syrup

• 6 Tbsp / 97g peanut butter

• 6 Tbsp / 59g peanuts

• 6 Tbsp / 38g cocoa powder

• 5 Tbsp / 70g coconut oil

For the Peanut Butter Filling

• 1/2 cup / 130g peanut butter

• 1/4 cup / 81g maple syrup

• 1/4 cup / 56g coconut oil

For the Chocolate Topping

• 1 cup / 175g semi sweet or dark chocolate chips

• 1 Tbsp / 14g coconut oil

Directions:

Ungreased 8x8 inch / 20x20 centimeter square baking dish

Make the Chocolate Coconut Crust

1. Add all ingredients to a food processor; blend until smooth and mixture comes together in a soft dough-like ball.

2. Press into pan and freeze while preparing filling.

Make the Peanut Butter Filling

1. Add all filling ingredients to a medium bowl or food processor and mix until smooth. (It’s not necessary to clean food processor between mixing the crust and filling.)

2. Remove crust from freezer and evenly spread filling over crust. Place back in freezer while preparing topping.

Make the Chocolate Topping

1. In a small saucepan, combine chocolate and coconut oil. Melt over low heat, stirring frequently. Remove from heat when there are still a few tiny bits of chocolate; continue stirring until all is melted and smooth.

2. Remove bars from freezer and spread topping evenly over filling. Cover and place in freezer or refrigerator to set, at least 30 minutes. Store covered in refrigerator.

Jenny’s Notes:

• Different nut butters and nuts can be swapped out for the peanut butter and peanuts. Almond butter and almonds can be used, or cashews and cashew butter, or mix them up as you wish!

Yield 16

Author Jennyblogs

Prep time

25 Min

Inactive time

30 Min

Total time

55 Min

Print

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Healthier Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Decadent, no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars with a chocolate coconut crust, peanut butter filling, and simple chocolate topping are deceivingly simple to make and satisfying to eat. Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and almost refined sugar-free.

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Coconut Crust

• 1 1/2 cups / 120g shredded unsweetened coconut
• 6 Tbsp / 120g maple syrup
• 6 Tbsp / 97g peanut butter
• 6 Tbsp / 59g peanuts
• 6 Tbsp / 38g cocoa powder
• 5 Tbsp / 70g coconut oil

For the Peanut Butter Filling

• 1/2 cup / 130g peanut butter
• 1/4 cup / 81g maple syrup
• 1/4 cup / 56g coconut oil

For the Chocolate Topping

• 1 cup / 175g semi sweet or dark chocolate chips
• 1 Tbsp / 14g coconut oil

Instructions

Make the Chocolate Coconut Crust

1. Ungreased 8x8 inch / 20x20 centimeter square baking dish
2. Add all ingredients to a food processor; blend until smooth and mixture comes together in a soft dough-like ball.
3. Press into pan and freeze while preparing filling.

Make the Peanut Butter Filling

1. Add all filling ingredients to a medium bowl or food processor and mix until smooth. (It’s not necessary to clean food processor between mixing the crust and filling.)
2. Remove crust from freezer and evenly spread filling over crust. Place back in freezer while preparing topping.

Make the Chocolate Topping

1. In a small saucepan, combine chocolate and coconut oil. Melt over low heat, stirring frequently. Remove from heat when there are still a few tiny bits of chocolate; continue stirring until all is melted and smooth.
2. Remove bars from freezer and spread topping evenly over filling. Cover and place in freezer or refrigerator to set, at least 30 minutes. Store covered in refrigerator.

Notes

• Different nut butters and nuts can be swapped out for the peanut butter and peanuts. Almond butter and almonds can be used, or cashews and cashew butter, or mix them up as you wish!

Nutrition Facts

Calories

332.91

Fat

26.92 g

Sat. Fat

17.14 g

Carbs

21.81 g

Fiber

3.64 g

Net carbs

18.19 g

Sugar

13.5 g

Protein

6.06 g

Sodium

77.98 mg

Cholesterol

0.11 mg

Nutritional information is approximate. Based on 1 serving if cut into 16 pieces.

https://jennyblogs.com/blog/2024/7/9/healthy-chocolate-peanut-butter-bars

healthy coconut chocolate peanut butter bars, vegan, gluten free, dairy free, refined sugar free, no bake

dessert

American

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @jennyblogsandbakes on instagram and hashtag it #jennyblogs

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Strawberry Nutella Coconut Milkshake

Last Updated August 24, 2024

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links, Jennyblogs may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps to support Jennyblogs. Where possible, links are prioritized to small businesses and ethically and responsibly made items. For further information see the privacy policy. Grazie!

Buon Ferragosto!

Also known as the day where everything is closed and I feel slightly trapped. Hmmm the gelato place is closed so I’ll just run to the store and pick up some…oh wait, all the grocery stores are closed. Ok, well maybe I’ll go browse some shops, oh wait, all closed. I’ll go walk around in the center for a bit…nope, hardly any buses running today to get to the center. Even if I could find a bus, all the places I could buy a ticket are closed. Ok, so I’ll walk to the gym to work out and enjoy some air conditioning. Ah, closed. So, I hunker down and eat whatever food is in the house, try to stay cool. Actually we’ve come to a bit of a cool spell, today only has a high of 90°F. I’ll take it!

I actually planned ahead this year and went grocery shopping last night. I got fruit and veggies for lunch and dinner today, but why didn’t I get better snackies? But then I remembered that I have a good stash of gelato in the freezer, and made me think of this delectable milkshake I made a few weeks ago.

So with all this time on my hands, I shall be milkshaking and sharing this milkshake with you! What’s so great about this milkshake?

It’s a Strawberry Nutella Coconut Milkshake. That’s such a long name, and kinda going against my own rule of not listing every ingredient in the title, but otherwise I didn’t quite know how to get the dream across, ya know?

How about this: Strawnutelloco Milkshake. Stranucoco Milkshake. Conuterry. Strawconutella. Regardless, this milkshake tastes like a chocolate covered strawberry rolled in coconut with a hint of hazelnut.

I have a confession to make. I originally made this milkshake to try and hide this not-awesome gelato I bought. There was a sale on a brand I had never tried before at the grocery store, and they had coconut and I love coconut but it just did not end well. Icy and so much coconut it was chewy. I didn’t want to waste it, but I also didn’t necessarily want to force myself to eat gelato?

Enter the milkshake idea. I had strawberries, Nutella, and milk, and this beautiful combo was born. The copious amounts of coconut from the gelato still rendered my milkshake a bit chewy, but if you have a GOOD brand of coconut ice cream, or even vanilla ice cream with a bit of flaked coconut and maybe a drop of coconut extract or two thrown in, you’ve got yourself the perfect summer day’s treat.

So thank you, gelato brand that shall remain unnamed, for the not delicious gelato that prompted me to create a delicious milkshake.

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Strawberry Nutella Coconut Milkshake

Serves 2

Ingredients:

• 2 cups coconut ice cream, slightly softened

• 1/2 cup milk, any variety

• 1/2 cup hulled strawberries, fresh or frozen

• 2 heaping Tbsp Nutella

• Dash of vanilla extract, optional

• Whipped cream, optional

Directions:

1. Add all ingredients except whipped cream to a blender and blend until smooth. Check consistency and add more milk if desired.

2. Spoon into 2 glasses and top with whipped cream. Serve immediately.

Jenny’s Notes:

• Don’t have coconut ice cream but still want that coconut taste? Substitute chocolate or vanilla ice cream and add a bit of flaked coconut and a drop or two of coconut extract.

• For creamier shakes, use whole milk.

• For thinner shakes you can sip, add more milk. For thicker, spoonable shakes, add less milk. Some blenders don’t blend thicker shakes well, so if yours is having problems, either wait a minute or two for the ice cream to soften a bit more before continuing to blend, or add a touch more milk.

• To make fresh whipped cream, whip about 1/4 cup / 60g heavy whipping cream with 1 Tbsp / 14g sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with whisk attachment, or with a handheld mixer. This makes about 1/2 cup fresh whipped cream. Store in fridge, best if used within a few days.

Yield 2 Servings

Author Jennyblogs

Prep time

5 Min

Total time

5 Min

Print

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Strawberry Nutella Coconut Milkshake

Thick and creamy milkshake with coconut ice cream, Nutella, strawberries and whipped cream on top.

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

• 2 cups coconut ice cream, slightly softened
• 1/2 cup milk, any variety
• 1/2 cup hulled strawberries, fresh or frozen
• 2 heaping Tbsp Nutella
• Dash of vanilla extract, optional
• Whipped cream, optional

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients except whipped cream to a blender and blend until smooth. Check consistency and add more milk if desired.
2. Spoon into 2 glasses and top with whipped cream. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Don’t have coconut ice cream but still want that coconut taste? Substitute chocolate or vanilla ice cream and add a bit of flaked coconut and a drop or two of coconut extract.
• For creamier shakes, use whole milk.
• For thinner shakes you can sip, add more milk. For thicker, spoonable shakes, add less milk. Some blenders don’t blend thicker shakes well, so if yours is having problems, either wait a minute or two for the ice cream to soften a bit more before continuing to blend, or add a touch more milk.
• To make fresh whipped cream, whip about 1/4 cup / 60g heavy whipping cream with 1 Tbsp / 14g sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with whisk attachment, or with a handheld mixer. This makes about 1/2 cup fresh whipped cream. Store in fridge, best if used within a few days.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

440.85

Fat

23.21 g

Sat. Fat

19.31 g

Carbs

54.51 g

Fiber

3.87 g

Net carbs

50.64 g

Sugar

40.58 g

Protein

6.95 g

Sodium

49.23 mg

Cholesterol

9.42 mg

Nutritional information is approximate and based on 2 servings and includes whipped cream.

https://jennyblogs.com/blog/2019/8/14/strawberry-nutella-coconut-milkshake

milkshake, milk, strawberry, Nutella, coconut, ice cream, vanilla, fresh whipped cream, dessert, summer

Dessert, Beverage

American

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @jennyblogsandbakes on instagram and hashtag it #jennyblogs

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Ganache Coconut Cream Pie Bars

Last Updated October 8, 2024

Oh my gosh! Ganache. Yes, coconut cream pie is delicious.  So are Almond Joys and Mounds.  So why not put them together, add a shortbread crust, put them in the slightly less formidable to cut bar form instead of pie, and voila: Ganache Coconut Cream Pie Bars. 

These bars are slightly involved, but the end product is very worthwhile.  Not to mention, you can make an 8x8 pan worth of bars, or 9x13!  I almost always go the 9x13 route.  This has become a favorite for Christmas, my mom's birthday, and just about any occasion that a little creamy coconut and chocolate is welcome.  As what seems to be turning into a trend, I failed to get any kind of decent photo of the inside, so for now, (or maybe forever...once these are cut into you'll understand why photos never get taken) please enjoy the photos of the whipped cream and toasted coconut topping.  If you'd like an idea of what bliss you're getting in to, take a peak over at Willow Bird Baking, from whom I adapted the recipe, and see her beautiful photos! 

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Ganache Coconut Cream Pie Bars

Makes about 20 servings

Ingredients:

For the Shortbread Crust

• 1 cup (2 sticks) / 226g cold butter

• 2 cups / 240g all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup / 100g sugar

For the Ganache

• 1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp / 87g heavy whipping cream

• 6 oz (1 cup) / 175g bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped, or chips

For the Coconut Cream Filling

• 6 cups / 1,422g unsweetened coconut milk or milk of choice

• 4 eggs

• 1 1/2 cups / 300g sugar

• 2/3 cup / 73g cornstarch

• 1/2 tsp / 2.5g salt

• 1 1/2 cups / 150g flaked unsweetened coconut

• 1/2 tsp / 2.5g coconut extract

• 1/2 tsp / 2.5g vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream Topping

• 2 cups / 464g heavy whipping cream

• 1/2 cup / 100g sugar

• 1 tsp / 5g vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup / 50g flaked unsweetened coconut, toasted (see below)

Directions:

Oven 350°F / 177°C.  Ungreased 9x13in / 23x33cm baking dish.

Make the Shortbread Crust

1. Cut the butter into flour and sugar using a fork, pastry cutter, or in a food processor.  Once the mixture resembles coarse sand and the butter chunks are no larger than small peas, press mixture evenly into bottom prepared pan. 

2. Bake for 18-22 minutes until lightly golden-brown.  Set aside to cool.  Leave oven on for toasting the coconut.

Make the Ganache

1. While the crust is baking, prepare the ganache.  Place the chocolate in a medium bowl and the cream in a small saucepan.  Over medium-low heat, bring the cream to a simmer.  You can also use the microwave, 30 seconds-1 minute or until cream is just simmering, but not boiling.  

2. Pour the cream over the chocolate and let sit for 1-2 minutes to melt the chocolate.  Whisk until completely smooth.  

3. Once the crust is finished and partly cooled, pour ganache evenly over crust.  Place in fridge to set.   

Toast the Coconut

Place the 1/2 cup coconut for the topping in a shallow baking dish.  Place in oven and stir every 1-2 minutes, making sure it doesn't over-brown, for a total of 5-10 minutes.  Remove and let cool.

Make the Coconut Cream Filling

1. Combine milk, eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a large saucepan. 

2. Place over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture begins to thicken and comes to a boil.  This can take anywhere from 15-35 minutes, depending on your stove.

3. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in coconut and both extracts.  

4. Remove crust from fridge and pour filling over crust.  Place back in fridge to set, 2-4 hours.  

Make the Whipped Cream Topping

1. Whip the cream and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer or with a handheld mixer until stiff peaks form.

2. Spoon over chilled bars, or pipe.  Finish with toasted coconut.  Store in fridge.  

Jenny's Notes:

• Because the ganache in this recipe is not decorative, you can easily substitute coconut milk or another kind for the heavy whipping cream. I prefer using coconut milk, reducing the amount of fat/calories. Save those for when you need the high-shine perfect ganache!

• If you only have sweetened coconut milk or sweetened flaked coconut on hand, go ahead and use those. Simply reduce the sugar by about 1/4-1/2 cup / 50-100g in the filling, if you wish. I prefer to have unsweetened coconut on hand so I can control how much sugar I'm adding to breakfasts, desserts, etc., plus I like the smaller size of flaked and grated coconut vs. shredded.

• For toasting coconut, and every use really, I highly recommend Le Creuset pans. My toasted coconut used to always come out in various shades, but since using Le Creuset it always turns out a beautiful even, golden-brown. They conduct heat evenly and beautifully.

• If a 9x13 pan of coconut cream heaven seems daunting to you, it's super easy to halve this recipe for a 8x8 or 9x9in pan!

• These bars should ideally be eaten within 3-4 days. Otherwise the whipped cream starts to separate and the crust gets soggy.

Yield 20

Author Jennyblogs

Prep time

1 H & 45 M

Cook time

32 Min

Total time

2 H & 17 M

Print

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Ganache Coconut Cream Pie Bars

Shortbread crust, a thin layer of ganache, classic coconut cream pie filling, all topped with fresh whipped cream and toasted coconut.

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust

• 1 cup (2 sticks) / 226g cold butter
• 2 cups / 240g all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup / 100g sugar

For the Ganache

• 1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp / 87g heavy whipping cream
• 6 oz (1 cup) / 175g bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped, or chips

For the Coconut Cream Filling

• 6 cups / 1,422g unsweetened coconut milk or milk of choice
• 4 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups / 300g sugar
• 2/3 cup / 73g cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp / 2.5g salt
• 1 1/2 cups / 150g flaked unsweetened coconut
• 1/2 tsp / 2.5g coconut extract
• 1/2 tsp / 2.5g vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream Topping

• 2 cups / 464g heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup / 100g sugar
• 1 tsp / 5g vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup / 50g flaked unsweetened coconut, toasted (see below)

Instructions

Make the Shortbread Crust

1. Oven 350°F / 177°C. Ungreased 9x13in / 23x33cm baking dish.
2. Cut the butter into flour and sugar using a fork, pastry cutter, or in a food processor. Once the mixture resembles coarse sand and the butter chunks are no larger than small peas, press mixture evenly into bottom prepared pan.
3. Bake for 18-22 minutes until lightly golden-brown. Set aside to cool. Leave oven on for toasting the coconut.

Make the Ganache

1. While the crust is baking, prepare the ganache. Place the chocolate in a medium bowl and the cream in a small saucepan. Over medium-low heat, bring the cream to a simmer. You can also use the microwave, 30 seconds-1 minute or until cream is just simmering, but not boiling.
2. Pour the cream over the chocolate and let sit for 1-2 minutes to melt the chocolate. Whisk until completely smooth.
3. Once the crust is finished and partly cooled, pour ganache evenly over crust. Place in fridge to set.

Toast the Coconut

1. Place the 1/2 cup coconut for the topping in a shallow baking dish. Place in oven and stir every 1-2 minutes, making sure it doesn't over-brown, for a total of 5-10 minutes. Remove and let cool.

Make the Coconut Cream Filling

1. Combine milk, eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a large saucepan.
2. Place over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture begins to thicken and comes to a boil. This can take anywhere from 15-35 minutes, depending on your stove.
3. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in coconut and vanilla extracts.
4. Remove crust from fridge and pour filling over crust. Place back in fridge to set, 2-4 hours.

Make the Whipped Cream Topping

1. Whip the cream and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer or with a handheld mixer until stiff peaks form.
2. Spoon over chilled bars, or pipe. Finish with toasted coconut. Store in fridge.

Notes

Because the ganache in this recipe is not decorative, you can easily substitute coconut milk or another kind for the heavy whipping cream. I prefer using coconut milk, reducing the amount of fat/calories. Save those for when you need the high-shine perfect ganache!If you only have sweetened coconut milk or sweetened flaked coconut on hand, go ahead and use those. Simply reduce the sugar by about 1/4-1/2 cup / 50-100g in the filling, if you wish. I prefer to have unsweetened coconut on hand so I can control how much sugar I'm adding to breakfasts, desserts, etc., plus I like the smaller size of flaked and grated coconut vs. shredded.For toasting coconut, and every use really, I highly recommend Le Creuset pans. My toasted coconut used to always come out in various shades, but since using Le Creuset it always turns out a beautiful even, golden-brown. They conduct heat evenly and beautifully.If a 9x13 pan of cream coconut heaven seems daunting to you, it's super easy to halve this recipe for an 8x8 or 9x9in pan!These bars should ideally be eaten within 3-4 days. Otherwise the whipped cream starts to separate and the crust gets soggy.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

446.04

Fat

30.59 g

Sat. Fat

21.07 g

Carbs

41.54 g

Fiber

2.52 g

Net carbs

39.02 g

Sugar

26.41 g

Protein

4.58 g

Sodium

152.00 mg

Cholesterol

92.63 mg

Nutritional information is approximate. Based on 20 servings.

https://jennyblogs.com/blog/2018/2/7/ganache-coconut-cream-pie-bars

Coconut Cream pie, bars, shortbread, chocolate ganache, fresh whipped cream, toasted coconut

Dessert, Pie, bars

American

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @jennyblogsandbakes on instagram and hashtag it #jennyblogs

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Coconut Scones

Last Updated August 9, 2024

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something using these links, Jennyblogs may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps to support Jennyblogs. For further information see the privacy policy. Grazie!

Scones come in all different shapes and sizes.  Whether they're flat or fluffy, dry or moist, sweet or savory, round, square, or triangular.  I've never had the honor to eat a real British or Scottish scone, but I have a few favorite recipes that I only hope the real thing could live up to.  

This particular recipe is not too sweet, with only a 1/4 cup sugar aside from the glaze, and lovely with a cup of tea or coffee, although drinking liquids with them isn’t necessary because they are moist enough by themselves.  I always think bright citrus flavors are marvelous in scones, but you can never go wrong with coconut.

If you’re familiar with making biscuits, this recipe is very similar to a biscuit recipe. In fact, you may be wondering what the difference is between a biscuit and a scone. The main differences that I’ve understood, is that scones are a bit drier than biscuits, and biscuits have more acidity and are considered “flaky” where scones might be more described as “crumbly.” This also appears to be much debated, with everyone having their own opinion. I, for one, want my scones to be just as moist and flaky/crumbly as my biscuits. Plus, biscuits are usually just buttery, maybe flavored with some cheese or herbs, or with a touch of sugar to be served as stawberry shortcakes. Scones? So many flavors!

Recipe adapted from Food Network.

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Coconut Scones

Makes about 20

Ingredients:

For the Scones

• 4 1/4 cups / 510g all-purpose flour

• 2 Tbsp / 30g baking powder

• 1 tsp / 5g salt

• 1/4 cup / 50g sugar, plus more for sprinkling

• 2 cups / 160g shredded unsweetened coconut

• 1 1/2 cups / 339g butter, cubed, or 1 1/4 cups / 277g oil

• 1 cup / 237g unsweetened coconut milk

• 4 eggs, lightly beaten

• 1 tsp / 5g coconut extract

• 2 cups / 250g pecans, finely chopped, plus more for sprinkling, optional

For the Glaze

• 1 cup / 125g powdered sugar

• 2-3 Tbsp / 30-45g unsweetened coconut milk

• 1/4 tsp / 1g coconut extract

• 1/4 tsp / 1g vanilla extract

Directions:

Oven 400°F / 205°C.  Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

Make the Scones

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and coconut.  Add the butter or oil, and beat until mixture is coarse and crumbly.  

2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and coconut extract.  Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened.  Do not over mix.  Gently stir in pecans.  

3. Scoop dough onto prepared baking pans into approximately 3 in / 7cm mounds, leaving enough space between scones so that they can brown evenly, about 2 in / 5cm.  Sprinkle with extra sugar and pecans, if desired.   

4. Bake for 13-16 minutes, until starting to turn golden and the center no longer feels doughy to the touch.  

Make the Glaze

1. In a small bowl whisk together powdered sugar, extracts, and 2 tablespoons of milk.  Add more milk to get a drizzling consistency, if needed.  

2. Drizzle over scones while they are still warm.  

Jenny's Notes:

• When you first add the liquid into the flour mixture, you may notice the dough seems too wet/soupy. Let it sit just for a minute or two (great time to prepare your pans), and it will magically thicken. My biscuit recipe is like this too. I always think it’s too wet when I first stop mixing, but then it ends up being fine.

• You might notice I don't always give the weight for measurements less than 1 tsp and never for eggs.  Unless a recipe needs to be very exact (such as plenty of French classics), I find eggs don't need to be weighed.  A little less or extra egg in a recipe like this one is not going to make a world of difference, and the 1/4 of an egg you had to remove to get an exact weight would probably go to waste.  That’s a shame, so I always round the egg measurements or weight to the nearest whole egg.  As far as the teaspoon measurements, I find scales tend to be less precise than an actual teaspoon, unless you have one of those smaller and more precise (to the nearest .001g) scales.

• Some family members of mine don't appreciate nuts in their baked goods, so I omit the nuts in the batter and sprinkle some on half of the scones.  

• An ice cream/cupcake scoop works great to transfer the dough onto the baking sheets.  

• Don't have coconut milk?  Use any kind of milk you have on hand! 

Yield about 20 scones

Author Jennyblogs

Prep time

25 Min

Cook time

16 Min

Total time

41 Min

Print

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Coconut Scones

Moist coconut scones with a coconut glaze and pecans.

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

For the Scones

• 4 1/4 cups / 510g all-purpose flour
• 2 Tbsp / 30g baking powder
• 1 tsp / 5g salt
• 1/4 cup / 50g sugar, plus more for sprinkling
• 2 cups / 160g shredded unsweetened coconut
• 1 1/2 cups / 339g butter, cubed, or 1 1/4 cups / 277g oil
• 1 cup / 237g unsweetened coconut milk
• 4 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp / 5g coconut extract
• 2 cups / 250g pecans, finely chopped, plus more for sprinkling, optional

For the Glaze

• 1 cup / 125g powdered sugar
• 2-3 Tbsp / 30-45g unsweetened coconut milk
• 1/4 tsp / 1g coconut extract
• 1/4 tsp / 1g vanilla extract

Instructions

Make the Scones

1. Oven 400°F / 205°C. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and coconut. Add the butter or oil, and beat until mixture is coarse and crumbly.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and coconut extract. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Do not over mix. Gently stir in pecans.
4. Scoop dough onto prepared baking pans into approximately 3 in / 7cm mounds, leaving enough space between scones so that they can brown evenly, about 2 in / 5cm. Sprinkle with extra sugar and pecans, if desired.
5. Bake for 13-16 minutes, until starting to turn golden and the center no longer feels doughy to the touch.

Make the Glaze

1. In a small bowl whisk together powdered sugar, extracts, and 2 tablespoons of milk. Add more milk to get a drizzling consistency, if needed.
2. Drizzle over scones while they are still warm.

Notes

When you first add the liquid into the flour mixture, you may notice the dough seems too wet/soupy. Let it sit just for a minute or two (great time to prepare your pans), and it should thicken.

Some family members of mine don't appreciate nuts in their baked goods, so I omit the nuts in the batter and sprinkle some on half of the scones. An ice cream scoop works great to transfer the dough onto the baking sheets. Don't have coconut milk? Use any kind of milk you have on hand!

Nutrition Facts

Calories

410.68

Fat

29.69 g

Sat. Fat

14.90 g

Carbs

33.36 g

Fiber

3.25 g

Net carbs

30.11 g

Sugar

9.93 g

Protein

5.89 g

Sodium

384.66 mg

Cholesterol

73.64 mg

Nutritional information is approximate. Based on 20 servings and includes pecans.

https://jennyblogs.com/blog/2017/4/18/coconut-scones

coconut scones, moist scones, pecan, coconut, coconut glaze, scones,

breakfast, bread

American

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Tag @jennyblogsandbakes on instagram and hashtag it #jennyblogs

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Quinoa Coconut Date Rolls

Last Updated August 8, 2024

These little morsels are so named because they are rolled, and no, these will not get you a date nor would I suggest bringing them on a first date.  Not because these aren't scrummy (that’s scrumptious and yummy combined), but because "healthy" baking should always be treated warily.  You must already have a well established relationship with that person, preferably have treated them to some normal sugary delicious desserts so that they understand that you understand what a dessert "should" be, and can trust your taste buds when you then try to sell them on your spinach-spirolina-turmeric-kale-ginger-wasabi-moringa bars that are also dairy-free and refined-sugar free.  Whew, I'm out of breath.  But that relationship is important.  So if I've never eaten anything that you've made before, know that I might distrust you at first, in the most genial way possible.  And you should distrust me, until I gain your trust.  

Also understand what your taste preferences are, and if you don't like healthy desserts, well then, may I ask why are you reading this particular recipe? May I kindly redirect you to this decadent Peanut Butter Brownie Trifle?  Or if you don't like dates, we might have a problem.  But if you like healthy desserts, or are exploring in this arena, then you probably know what you're getting yourself into.  The quinoa provides protein and grains, the almonds provide good fats and more protein, while the dates give sweetness and carbs and coconut brings flavor to the party. 

So now, using your own best judgment, allow me to introduce my friends, the Quinoa Coconut Date Rolls.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something using these links, Jennyblogs may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps to support Jennyblogs. For further information see the privacy policy. Grazie!

Recipe adapted from Skinny Ms.

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Quinoa Coconut Date Rolls

Makes about 10-12 rolls

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup / 60g dry quinoa

• 2/3 cup / 158g water

• 1 cup / 160g pitted dates

• 1/2 cup / 70g almonds

• 1/3 cup / 33g grated unsweetened coconut, plus more for rolling

• 2-3 tsp / 10-15g water

• 1/4 cup / 42g chocolate chips, optional

Directions:

1. Combine quinoa and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.  Bring to a boil and reduce heat.  Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until all the water is absorbed.  Set aside to cool completely.  If you already have quinoa made, you'll need about 1 cup.  

2. Place dates in a food processor and blend until they stick together in a ball.  Add the almonds, coconut, and quinoa; pulse until well combined.  Add water, if necessary, until the mixture holds together.  Shape into balls or roll.  Place extra coconut on a plate and roll the rolls around until completely covered in coconut.  

3. *Optional:  Heat chocolate chips over a double boiler or in the microwave for 30 second bursts, until melted.  Drizzle chocolate over rolls.

4. Store in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze.  

Jenny's Notes:

• For a chunkier roll, process for a shorter period of time.  

• These rolls are also delicious if you add a 1/2 tsp of cinnamon. They could become autumnal if you add cinnamon along with a dash of nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Yum!  

Yield 10-12 rolls

Author Jennyblogs

Prep time

25 Min

Cook time

15 Min

Total time

40 Min

Print

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Quinoa Coconut Date Rolls (Vegan)

Nutritious Lara-bar like rolls made with quinoa, dates, coconut, and almonds with optional chocolate drizzle. Great for breakfast, snacks, on the go, and after workouts!

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup / 60g dry quinoa
• 2/3 cup / 158g water
• 1 cup / 160g pitted dates
• 1/2 cup / 70g almonds
• 1/3 cup / 33g grated unsweetened coconut, plus more for rolling
• 2-3 tsp / 10-15g water
• 1/4 cup / 42g chocolate chips, optional

Instructions

1. Combine quinoa and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until all the water is absorbed. Set aside to cool completely. If you already have quinoa made, you'll need about 1 cup.
2. Place dates in a food processor and blend until they stick together in a ball. Add the almonds, coconut, and quinoa; pulse until well combined. Add water, if necessary, until the mixture holds together. Shape into balls or roll. Place extra coconut on a plate and roll the rolls around until completely covered in coconut.
3. *Optional: Heat chocolate chips over a double boiler or in the microwave for 30 second bursts, until melted. Drizzle chocolate over rolls.
4. Store in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze.

Notes

For a chunkier roll, process for a shorter period of time. These rolls are also delicious if you add a 1/2 tsp of cinnamon. They could become autumnal if you add cinnamon along with a dash of nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Yum!

Nutrition Facts

Calories

151.00

Fat

7.49 g

Sat. Fat

2.97 g

Carbs

20.79 g

Fiber

3.25 g

Net carbs

17.54 g

Sugar

13.01 g

Protein

3.11 g

Sodium

37.86 mg

Cholesterol

0.00 mg

Nutritional information is approximate. Based on 10 servings and includes chocolate drizzle.

https://jennyblogs.com/blog/2017/4/12/quinoa-coconut-date-rolls

quinoa, coconut, almonds, gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, refined sugar-free, vegetarian, healthy, nutritious, clean eating, egg-free

snack, breakfast

American

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Tag @jennyblogsandbakes on instagram and hashtag it #jennyblogs

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Peanut Butter Energy Bites

What is energy, and why do these bites have so much?  I'm not about to give you a lesson in physics, I'll leave that to Iggy Azalea, but basically they are filled with good calories (energy) from the nutrients and natural sugar.  If there is the word energy in the title, it probably just means it's high calorie.  But if they were called Peanut Butter Calorie Bites, who would make them?  Calories get such a bad rap, poor things.  Calories, I can't liiive without yooooou!  Literally. (If you just sang that to the tune of "Without You" by Badfinger, congratulations. Me too.) 

So if you need a boost of energy or a quick pick-me-up, these are your friends.  Also great if you are about to expend a lot of energy, like going for a run or playing Twister, or after.  They are small but pack a punch, so they don't make you feel too full.  

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links, Jennyblogs may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps to support Jennyblogs. For further information see the privacy policy. Grazie!

Recipe adapted from Gimme Some Oven

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Peanut Butter Energy Bites

Makes about 15 1-in. diameter balls

A mass of energy...

Ingredients:

• 1 cup / 90g oats

• 2/3 cup / 67g flaked or shredded coconut, unsweetened

• 1/2 cup / 130g peanut butter

• 1/2 cup wheat germ (50g), chia seeds (80g), or ground flax seed (90g)

• 1/3 cup / 110g honey or maple syrup

• 1 tsp / 5g vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup / 85g mini chocolate chips

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients.  If dough is too dry to form balls, add more honey or peanut butter; if they seem too sticky, add more oats or wheat germ. 

2. Form into balls and store in the fridge or freezer for when you want a quick snack.

Jenny's Notes:

• For vegan bites, be sure to use dairy-free chips and use maple syrup instead of honey.

• For gluten-free bites, make sure your oats are certified gluten-free and use chia or flax seeds instead of wheat germ. 

• You can get creative with these bites, substitute or add to the chocolate chips with your favorite dried fruit or nuts, or even types of cereal, such as grape-nuts, puffed rice, granola, etc.

Yield 15 Balls

Author Jennyblogs

Prep time

15 Min

Total time

15 Min

Print

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Peanut Butter Energy Bites

All the goodness of granola bars in an easier, rolled form. Packed with energy and nutrients, these peanut butter, coconut, chocolate chip energy bites are perfect for a quick snack or pick-me-up.

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

• 1 cup / 90g oats
• 2/3 cup / 67g flaked or shredded coconut, unsweetened
• 1/2 cup / 130g peanut butter
• 1/2 cup wheat germ (50g), chia seeds (80g), or ground flax seed (90g)
• 1/3 cup / 110g honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp / 5g vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup / 85g mini chocolate chips

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients. If dough is too dry to form balls, add more honey or peanut butter; if they seem too sticky, add more oats or wheat germ.
2. Form into balls and store in the fridge or freezer for when you want a quick snack.

Notes

For vegan bites, be sure to use dairy-free chips and use maple syrup instead of honey.For gluten-free bites, make sure your oats are certified gluten-free and use chia or flax seeds instead of wheat germ. You can get creative with these bites, substitute or add to the chocolate chips with your favorite dried fruit or nuts, or even types of cereal, such as grape-nuts, puffed rice, granola, etc.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

167.43

Fat

9.64 g

Sat. Fat

4.52 g

Carbs

18.89 g

Fiber

2.68 g

Net carbs

16.21 g

Sugar

10.10 g

Protein

4.14 g

Sodium

44.67 mg

Cholesterol

0.00 mg

Nutritional information is approximate. Based on 15 servings.

https://jennyblogs.com/blog/2016/8/23/peanut-butter-energy-bites

peanut butter energy balls, chocolate chips, coconut, granola bar bites

Snacks

American

Did you make this recipe?

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Toasted Coconut Toffee Cookies

Last Updated September 15, 2024

These Toasted Coconut Toffee Cookies are a new favorite of mine. I can’t get enough!

It is similar to a chocolate chip cookie, just add a handful of freshly toasted coconut and toffee bits.  The dough alone is magical.  The first time I ever made these the dough barely made it in the oven because it was in my mouth.  I think I made a note at the bottom of the recipe something to the effect of "KEEP THIS RECIPE FOREVER."  And here it is, yours to hold and keep and eat forever until death do you part.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links, Jennyblogs may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps to support Jennyblogs. For further information see the privacy policy. Grazie!

Recipe inspired by Let's Dish Recipes

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Toasted Coconut Toffee Cookies

Makes 40-50 smallish cookies (or less, depending on how much dough is consumed before baking)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups / 160g shredded coconut, unsweetened

• 1 3/4 cups / 210g all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1 1/2 cups / 300g brown sugar

• 1/2 cup / 113g oil

• 2 tsp / 10g vanilla extract

• 2 eggs

• 1 8 oz / 227g bag Heath Bits O Brickle or Toffee bits

• 1 1/2 cups / 255g semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F / 177°C.

1. Arrange coconut in an even layer on a large baking sheet or pan.  Bake in preheated oven for 5-8 minutes or until fragrant and lightly golden brown, stirring occasionally.

2. While the coconut is toasting, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. 

3. In another bowl, mix brown sugar and oil together.  Add vanilla and eggs and beat well.  Add dry ingredients and mix. 

4. By this time your coconut should be done.*  Add coconut, toffee, and chocolate chips to dough and mix until just combined. 

5. Place by small spoonful onto cookie sheet.  Bake for 6-8 minutes, or until edges are just golden and the center still looks soft and doughy. 

Jenny's Notes:

• Coconut goes quickly from perfectly golden to burnt, so keep a close eye on it!

• Feel free to use shredded, flaked, and desiccated coconut interchangeably, but keep in mind certain kinds, like shredded, are almost always sold sweetened.  You may need to adjust your toasting time accordingly: More time for flaked, less for desiccated. 

• *I like to add the coconut to the dough while it's still warm from the oven, thus melting the chocolate chips a tad and creating a chocolate swirl in the batter.  Just be careful not to over mix.

Yield 40-50 cookies

Author Jennyblogs

Prep time

20 Min

Cook time

24 Min

Total time

44 Min

Print

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Toasted Coconut Toffee Cookies

Cookies loaded with chocolate chips, toasted coconut, and toffee bits.

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

• 2 cups / 160g shredded coconut, unsweetened
• 1 3/4 cups / 210g all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups / 300g brown sugar
• 1/2 cup / 113g oil
• 2 tsp / 10g vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1 8 oz / 227g bag Heath Bits O Brickle or Toffee bits
• 1 1/2 cups / 255g semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F / 177°C.
2. Arrange coconut in an even layer on a large baking sheet or pan. Bake in preheated oven for 5-8 minutes or until fragrant and lightly golden brown, stirring occasionally.
3. While the coconut is toasting, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
4. In another bowl, mix brown sugar and oil together. Add vanilla and eggs and beat well. Add dry ingredients and mix.
5. By this time your coconut should be done.* Add coconut, toffee, and chocolate chips to dough and mix until just combined.
6. Place by small spoonful onto cookie sheet. Bake for 6-8 minutes, or until edges are just golden and the center still looks soft and doughy.

Notes

• Coconut goes quickly from perfectly golden to burnt, so keep a close eye on it!
• Feel free to use shredded, flaked, and desiccated coconut interchangeably, but keep in mind certain kinds, like shredded, are almost always sold sweetened.  You may need to adjust your toasting time accordingly: More time for flaked, less for desiccated. 
• *I like to add the coconut to the dough while it's still warm from the oven, thus melting the chocolate chips a tad and creating a chocolate swirl in the batter.  Just be careful not to over mix.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

163.73

Fat

8.77 g

Sat. Fat

4.1 g

Carbs

20.06 g

Fiber

1.04 g

Net carbs

19.04 g

Sugar

14.31 g

Protein

1.45 g

Sodium

57.12 mg

Cholesterol

14.47 mg

Nutritional information is approximate, based on 1 cookie.

https://jennyblogs.com/blog/2016/5/3/toasted-coconut-toffee-cookies

chocolate chip cookies, toasted coconut, Heath toffee

dessert, cookies

American

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @jennyblogsandbakes on instagram and hashtag it #jennyblogs

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Banana Coconut Breakfast Cookies

Last Updated July 23, 2024

Do you like cookies? Would you like to eat cookies for breakfast, or anytime? Then these cookies are for you, because they’re delicious and also healthy!

These Coconut Banana Breakfast Cookies have no refined sugar. Think bananas, coconut, pecans, and apricots with a light touch of maple syrup and oats. Of course, I practically just gave you the whole ingredient list so let's just get baking, shall we?? 

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links, Jennyblogs may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps to support Jennyblogs. Where possible, links are prioritized to ethically and responsibly made items, small businesses, and where applicable, American companies and products made in the USA for American readers. For further information see the privacy policy. Grazie!

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Banana Coconut Breakfast Cookies

Makes about 15 cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups / 135g quick oats

• 1 cup / 80g unsweetened flaked or shredded coconut

• 2/3 cup / 66g pecan halves, coarsely chopped

• 1/4 cup / 35g almonds, coarsely chopped

• 1 Tbsp / 10g flax seeds

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup / 65g dried apricots, chopped

• 3 / 300g very ripe bananas, mashed

• 1/4 cup / 56g coconut oil, melted

• 1 Tbsp / 20g maple syrup

• 1 tsp / 5g vanilla extract

Directions:

Oven 350°F / 177°C

1. In a medium bowl, stir together oats, coconut, pecans, flax, salt, and apricots. Add bananas, coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla until combined. 

2. Spoon generous mounds onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silpat. 

3. Bake 23-25 minutes, until lightly golden. 

Jenny's Notes:

• Recipes like this are great because they can be so easily adapted to your tastes, or simply to change it up.  Feel free to use any kind of nuts you wish, or a combination of several, change up the dried fruit, or use honey instead of maple syrup.  I recommend also trying dried blueberries and dried cherries!

• You can use rolled oats for these cookies in place of the quick oats. I've found that in most recipes the different kind of oats can be interchanged without affecting the quality of your product. Just keep in mind that rolled oats are slightly less absorbent than quick oats, so you may need to add slightly more.

Yield 15

Author Jennyblogs

Prep time

20 Min

Cook time

25 Min

Total time

45 Min

Print

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Banana Coconut Breakfast Cookies

Healthy cookies made with bananas, coconut, nuts, seeds, and fruit, and sweetened with maple syrup. Excellent for breakfast, dessert, or anytime snack! Gluten free, dairy free, vegan, and refined sugar free.

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups / 135g quick oats
• 1 cup / 80g unsweetened flaked or shredded coconut
• 2/3 cup / 66g pecan halves, coarsely chopped
• 1/4 cup / 35g almonds, coarsely chopped
• 1 Tbsp / 10g flax seeds
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup / 65g dried apricots, chopped
• 3 / 300g very ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/4 cup / 56g coconut oil, melted
• 1 Tbsp / 20g maple syrup
• 1 tsp / 5g vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Oven 350°F / 177°C
2. In a medium bowl, stir together oats, coconut, pecans, flax, salt, and apricots. Add bananas, coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla until combined.
3. Spoon generous mounds onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silpat.
4. Bake 23-25 minutes, until lightly golden.

Notes

• Recipes like this are great because they can be so easily adapted to your tastes, or simply to change it up.  Feel free to use any kind of nuts you wish, or a combination of several, change up the dried fruit, or use honey instead of maple syrup.  I recommend also trying dried blueberries and dried cherries!
• You can use either quick oats or rolled oats for these cookies. I've found that in most recipes the different kind of oats can be interchanged without affecting the quality of your product. Just keep in mind that rolled oats are slightly less absorbent than quick oats, so if using rolled oats, you may need to add slightly more.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

145.27

Fat

8.24 g

Sat. Fat

3.68 g

Carbs

17.02 g

Fiber

2.36 g

Net carbs

14.68 g

Sugar

6.6 g

Protein

3.19 g

Sodium

79.49 mg

Cholesterol

0 mg

Nutritional information is approximate and based on 1 cookie if recipe makes 15 cookies.

https://jennyblogs.com/blog/2016/4/19/banana-coconut-breakfast-cookies

healthy cookies, vegan, gluten free, dairy free, refined sugar free, breakfast cookies

dessert, breakfast

American

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @jennyblogsandbakes on instagram and hashtag it #jennyblogs

Some raisins snuck into these ones

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