Vegan Mars Bars

Our healthy take on the classic, “mars bars” is one of our all time favourites. This Vegan Mars Bars has a delicious nutty base to give the crunch, a smooth and naturally sweet date-caramel coated with rich dark chocolate. It’s the perfect alternative to satisfying your sweet tooth. For the caramel we’ve used a combination of cashews and macadamias however you can also just use one or the other. As well, we have included superfood powder, mesquite to enhance the nutritional profile (mesquite also acts as a natural sweetener). This however is completely optional. For the coating, we recommend choosing a raw dark chocolate (minimum 80% dark).  

INGREDIENTS

• BASE
• Buckinis, 1/2 cup (ground to a flour)
• Cashews, 1/2 cup, (ground to a flour)
• Dessicated Coconut, 1/2 cup
• Coconut Oil, 2 tbsp (melted)
• Coconut Sugar, 1 tbsp
• Boiling Water, 3 tbsp
• Himalayan Salt, 1/4 tsp
• CARAMEL
• Medjool Dates, 1 cup (soaked for a few minutes to soften)
• Macadamias, 1/2 cup
• Cashews, 1/2 cup
• Coconut Oil, 2 tbsp (melted)
• Vanilla Bean Paste, 1 tsp
• Hulled Tahini, 1 tbsp
• Mesquite Powder, 1 tbsp
• Himalayan Salt, 1/4 tsp
• Filtered Water, 1/2 cup
• Cinnamon, 1.4 tsp
• CHOCOLATE
• Dark Chocolate, 150 g

METHOD

1. Combine all ingredients for the base in a high-power blender, briefly blend. If the mixture looks a little dry, add a touch more water and/or coconut paste
2. Press the base into a greased and lined square or rectangular baking tray and place in the fridge while you make the caramel layer.
3. Combine all caramel ingredients in a high power blender and blend until smooth.
4. Scoop the caramel on top of the base, spreading evenly. Place in the freezer for 1-2 hours or until firm.
5. Using a sharp knife, slice into  approx. 15 even pieces.
6. Melt the chocolate using a double saucepan and then transfer to a shallow bowl. Allow the chocolate to cool slightly and then dip each individual caramel shortbread into the chocolate until fully covered.
7. Place a sheet of baking paper on a plate to transfer the chocolate covered bars.
8. Place in the fridge for 10-20 minutes to set.
9. Slice into bars and serve with your favourite Coconut Bowls and enjoy!