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–+ servings

Healthy Chocolate Espresso Shortbread Bars Recipe

These decadent and ultra-rich chocolate espresso shortbread bars combine a buttery almond flour crust with a luscious chocolate topping infused with espresso.
This healthy food recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while incorporating wholesome ingredients like almond flour and coconut oil.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16 pieces
Calories 298 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Shortbread Base:

  • 1/3 cup melted butter or coconut oil
  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/3 cup coconut flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Chocolate Espresso Topping:

  • 1/2 cup melted butter or coconut oil
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips semi-sweet recommended
  • 1 cup coconut sugar
  • 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup tapioca flour

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8 x 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the sides are covered.
  • Make the shortbread crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter (or coconut oil), maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Stir in almond flour, coconut flour, and salt until the mixture forms a crumbly dough. Press the dough firmly into the lined pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 13-15 minutes or until lightly golden on top. Remove and allow it to cool.
  • Prepare the chocolate espresso topping: In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the butter with the chocolate chips, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in the coconut sugar, espresso powder, and vanilla extract. Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Add the tapioca flour and mix until just combined.
  • Assemble and bake: Pour the chocolate mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the center is just set. Let the bars cool completely before slicing.
  • Serve and enjoy: Slice into 16 bars. For an indulgent touch, serve slightly warm with a dollop of ice cream.

Notes

  • You can use dark or milk chocolate chips (50%-60% cacao works best).
  • Instant espresso provides a bold flavor but can be substituted with instant coffee. Avoid ground coffee beans to prevent a gritty texture.
  • This recipe is a healthy twist on a classic dessert, featuring natural sweeteners and nutrient-rich ingredients.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 298kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 5gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 35mgFiber: 3gSugar: 20g
Keyword Almond flour shortbread bars, Easy espresso dessert ideas, Gluten-free dessert recipe, Healthy chocolate espresso bars, healthy food recipes, Refined sugar-free chocolate treats
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