Healthy Pure [Almond] Joy Bars

1 cup pitted dates
1/2 cup almonds+12 more for individual bars
1/2 cup unsweetened, shredded coconut
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
*1 tsp almond extract (optional- I added for extra almond flavor!)

*2 T. almond milk (optional- I needed this to get the doughy "ball" texture with the mixture in my food processor; add if you're having problems getting mixture to stick together)

In a blender or food processor, process the dates, almonds, and cocoa powder until they form a ball. (Add almond milk & extract, if needed or wanted.) It’s okay if there are some specks of almonds that aren’t totally incorporated.

Transfer to a small bowl and add 1/4 cup of the coconut. Use your hands to mix it in. You’ll need to knead it and fold it until it blends in. Add the rest of the coconut and do the same thing until it is totally mixed in.

On a piece of wax paper, use your hands to flatten the mixture into a rectangle. Next, use a knife to cut it into four equal pieces. Add three almonds to the top of each individual rectangle. Fold the mixture on top of the almonds and press it so it is closed. Use a knife to cut into 12 individual bars, pressing the seams closed with your fingers if necessary.

Number of Servings: 12

Recipe submitted by SparkPeople user FIT-WHIT.