Vegan Almond Joys

Want to be able to make dairy-free, homemade almond joy bites? This is the recipe for you! These Vegan Almond Joys have got everything you love about the traditional candy bar with none of the many additives. Sweetened coconut stuffed with a roasted almond and drizzled in chocolate sauce? Heaven. Pure and simple. Totally delicious and comes together in 30 minutes. Let's learn how to make them.

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Ingredients Needed For Vegan Almond Joys

• Sweetened Shredded Coconut (3 c): Sweetened shredded coconut is a core ingredient in Almond Joys, providing the signature coconut filling. It contributes sweetness and a chewy texture, which balances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Vegan Marshmallows (1 c): Vegan marshmallows are used to bind the coconut mixture together. When melted, they create a sticky, cohesive filling that holds the coconut mixture together and adds a mild sweetness.
• Vegan Butter (3 tbsp): Vegan butter is used to help melt the marshmallows. It will give the mixture a smooth, more velvety consistency that will make it easier to mix with the coconut.
• Vanilla Extract (½ tsp): Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the filling, imparting a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the coconut mixture. It complements the other ingredients and provides a pleasant aroma.
• Salt (¼ tsp): Salt is a crucial ingredient for balancing the sweetness in the filling. It enhances the flavor of the coconut and marshmallows while preventing the candy from being overly sweet.
• Roasted Almonds (15 nuts): Roasted almonds are the focal point of Almond Joys, adding a nutty crunch and flavor contrast to the sweet coconut filling. They are placed on top of the coconut mixture before dipping in chocolate.
• Nondairy Chocolate Chips (¾ c): Nondairy chocolate chips are used to coat/drizzle over the coconut and almond filling. It add richness, sweetness, and a satisfying chocolatey contrast to the coconut and almond flavors.

Steps for Making Vegan Almond Joys (with pictures!)

1. Prep Coconut: Add coconut to a food processor and process for 30 seconds to break it down. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling: Add vegan marshmallows, 2 tablespoon vegan butter, vanilla and salt to a saucepan and heat on the stove over medium-low, stirring constantly. Continue until the mallows are completely melted and smooth. Scoop melted mallows into your food processor bowl with the coconut and pulse until a homogenous mixture comes together.
3. Form Candies: Taking 1 heaping tablespoon at a time, form small disks of filling with the coconut mixture by pressing firmly with your fingers. Set finished candies on a baking sheet lined with wax paper and continue until all of the filling has been used. Press an almond into the center of each candy. Set baking sheet in the freezer to set for 15 minutes.
4. Melt the Chocolate: Add chocolate chips to a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30 second increments stirring after each. Continue until smooth and silky. Stir in the remaining vegan butter.
5. Assemble: Remove candies from the freezer. Taking one candy at a time, gently set in the chocolate. Do not toss! You only want to coat the bottom of the candy. Set back onto baking sheet. Continue until the bottoms of all of the candies are covered in chocolate. Set in the freezer for 5 minutes. Remove and drizzle the top of each candy with the remaining chocolate. Place back in the freezer to set for another 5 minutes before enjoying.

Tips for Making Vegan Almond Joys

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality vegan chocolate chips, vegan marshmallows, and roasted almonds for the best flavor and texture.
2. Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precise measurements are crucial for the coconut filling. For this reason, use measuring cups and spoons to ensure accuracy.
3. Melt Marshmallows Gently: When melting vegan marshmallows, do it slowly and over low heat to avoid overheating and ensure a smooth, sticky texture.
4. Work Quickly with Filling: The coconut mixture can become sticky as it cools. Shape it into bars or disks while it's still pliable.
5. Press Almonds Firmly: Press each almond gently but firmly into the coconut mixture to ensure they adhere securely.
6. Use a Silicone Baking Mat or Parchment/Wax Paper: When dipping the filled coconut bars in chocolate, place them on a silicone baking mat or parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
7. Let Excess Chocolate Drip: After dipping the bottom of the candy in chocolate, let any excess chocolate drip off before placing them on the parchment paper. This results in a thinner and neater chocolate coating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any type of vegan chocolate chips for the coating?

Yes, you can use any brand of vegan chocolate chips or chunks that you prefer for the chocolate coating. Just make sure they are labeled as vegan to ensure they do not contain dairy ingredients.

What can I use as a substitute for vegan marshmallows?

You can try using vegan marshmallow alternatives, like aquafaba marshmallows or homemade vegan marshmallow recipes. Alternatively, you could also use a mixture of corn syrup and powdered sugar for a similar sticky texture.

Can I make Almond Joys without the almonds for a nut-free version?

Yes, you can make nut-free versions of Almond Joys by omitting the almonds. Simply follow the rest of the recipe to create coconut-centered candies. You can also consider using sunflower or pumpkin seeds as a nut-free alternative for added crunch.

Can I use unsweetened shredded coconut and adjust the sweetness myself?

Yes, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut and adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more sweetener to the coconut mixture. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.

FAQ's Continued

Can I make these candies with other nuts, like cashews or pecans?

Absolutely! You can certainly customize your vegan candies by using other nuts like cashews, pecans, or peanuts in place of the almonds. Just ensure they are roasted and adjust quantities as needed.

How do I prevent the coconut mixture from sticking to my hands when shaping it into bars?

While not super necessary here, lightly greasing your hands with a bit of coconut oil or vegan butter can help prevent the coconut mixture from sticking to your hands.

How do I make sure the coconut filling doesn't fall apart when I dip it in chocolate?

Ensure the coconut mixture is well-packed and firmly shaped before dipping in chocolate. You should also chill it briefly in the freezer before dipping as recipe directs.

Are there any specific brands of vegan marshmallows that work well for this recipe?

Different brands of vegan marshmallows are available, and any reputable brand should work. Some popular vegan marshmallow brands include Dandies, Trader Joe's and also Freedom Mallows.

How to Serve Vegan Almond Joys

Serving vegan Almond Joys is easy! Here are a few ways to do so:

1. On a Dessert Platter: Arrange the vegan Almond Joys on a dessert platter as a sweet treat after a meal. You can add some fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a decorative touch.
2. In a Gift Basket: Place vegan Almond Joys in a gift basket along with other vegan sweets, such as homemade cookies or brownies, and give it as a thoughtful gift for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions.
3. In Candy Dishes: Fill decorative candy dishes or jars with vegan Almond Joys and place them around your home or office for a convenient and delicious snack.
4. As Edible Decorations: Use vegan Almond Joys as edible decorations on cakes, cupcakes, or ice cream sundaes. They can also add a delightful visual and textural element to your desserts.
5. With Coffee or Tea: Serve vegan Almond Joys alongside a cup of coffee or tea. As has been noted, the combination of the sweet coconut, chocolate, and almonds pairs well with the warmth of these beverages.
6. In Lunchboxes: Surprise your loved ones by adding vegan Almond Joys to their lunchboxes as a special treat. They'll certainly appreciate the sweet gesture.
7. With Ice Cream: Use chopped vegan Almond Joys as a topping for vegan ice cream. After all, the combination of textures and flavors is delightful.
8. As a Movie Night Snack: Enjoy vegan Almond Joys while watching your favorite movie or TV show. Their sweet and crunchy goodness makes for a perfect movie snack.

How to Store Vegan Almond Joys

To keep your homemade vegan Almond Joys fresh and maintain their deliciousness, proper storage is essential. Here's how to store vegan Almond Joys:

1. Refrigeration: Store your vegan Almond Joys in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To explain, the cold temperature helps maintain their texture and prevents the chocolate from melting or becoming too soft.
2. Layering: If you need to stack the Almond Joys in the container, place parchment paper or wax paper between each layer to prevent sticking and maintain their shape.
3. Sealing: Ensure that the container is tightly sealed to prevent moisture and odors from affecting the flavor of the Almond Joys.
4. Refrigerate Until Ready to Serve: Keep the vegan Almond Joys in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve or enjoy them. This ensures they remain firm and retain their intended texture and flavor.
5. Freezing (Optional): For extended storage, you can freeze your vegan Almond Joys. Place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking. Frozen Almond Joys can last for several months.

By following these storage guidelines, you can ensure that your homemade vegan Almond Joys remain fresh, flavorful, and enjoyable for an extended period, whether you store them in the refrigerator or freezer.

Please remember if you make this recipe to snap a pic and share with @censoredbaker on instagram!

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