These Paleo Magic Cookie Bars are just as rich and delicious as the classic seven-layer bars you know and love! This gluten-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free version has an almond flour crust and homemade coconut milk caramel for a healthier magic cookie bar you'll be just as obsessed with.
Course Dessert
Prep Time 30 minutesminutes
Cook Time 30 minutesminutes
Total Time 1 hourhour
Servings 16bars
Author Rachel Conners
Ingredients
For the coconut milk caramel (see notes for a shortcut)
In a heavy saucepan, heat the coconut milk and sugar over medium heat, stirring often, until coconut milk begins to boil. Lower heat to simmer and reduce by half, stirring often to prevent the sugar from scorching. (If thicker, caramelized sugar begins to form on sides or bottom, use a whisk to reincorporate it.)
When it reaches a similar consistency to a thick sweetened condensed milk or a drippy caramel sauce, in around 30 minutes, add 2 tablespoons coconut butter and vanilla. Stir well and remove from heat. You should end up with a little over a cup of caramel-colored, sweetened coconut milk.
For the crust/bars
Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8x8" pan with parchment paper, then lightly grease with coconut oil.
While the caramel is simmering (be sure to continue stirring every few minutes), mix together the almond flour, cinnamon, salt, and coconut butter. Sprinkle the crust mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using your fingers or a spatula, press the mixture down in an even layer, covering the bottom of the baking dish.
Sprinkle the chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and coconut flakes evenly over the crust. Pour the sweetened coconut milk evenly over everything. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until lightly browned.
Let chill in the refrigerator for about an hour or until completely chilled and set. Cut into 16 squares with a sharp knife and serve!
Notes
Looking for a shortcut? Skip making your own caramel and use store-bought sweetened condensed coconut milk. I like the linked brand (Nature's Charm) and it's usually available at stores like Whole Foods and Sprouts, but other brands are often available at other grocery stores and Asian markets.Recipe adapted from She Cooks, She Cleans