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Coconut Butter Caramel Protein Bites

These Coconut Butter Caramel Protein Bites are a decadent four-layer no-bake treat made with a chewy nut and date base, creamy coconut butter protein layer, gooey natural date caramel, and rich dark chocolate topping. Packed with nourishing ingredients and protein, they are a delicious way to satisfy chocolate and caramel cravings while adding more goodness to your day. Keep them in the fridge or freezer for an irresistible grab-and-go snack that tastes like a healthier homemade caramel slice. 🥥🌴
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine Healthy Clean Eating
Keyword c;lean eating snack or dessert, coconut butter caramel protein bites, coconut butter protein bar recipe, coconut butter protein bars no bake, coconut butter protein squares, no bake coconut butter caramel protein bites
Servings 16

Ingredients

Layer 1 - Nut & Date Base

  • 1 cup almonds, cashews, or mixed nuts
  • 1 cup soft Medjool dates, pitted (if your dates are hard, soak in warm water for 10 minutes and drain)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
  • Pinch of sea salt

Layer 2 - Coconut Butter Protein Layer

  • 3/4 cup coconut butter
  • 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt

Layer 3 - Date Caramel

  • 1 cup soft Medjool dates, pitted
  • 1/4 cup almond, cashew, or peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2-3 tablespoons warm water or milk of choice
  • Pinch of sea salt

Layer 4 - Chocolate Topping

  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Optional Toppings

  • Flaky sea salt
  • Toasted coconut
  • Chopped nuts
  • Cacao nibs

Instructions

  • Line a 8 x 8-inch baking pan or dish with parchment paper on the bottom and sides leaving some overhanging to act as a handle to get the bars out easier for cutting.

Nut & Date Base

  • Add the nuts, dates, coconut oil and sea salt to a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped and sticky, but still has some texture.
    Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the lined pan.

Coconut Butter Protein Layer

  • Gently melt the coconut butter until smooth and pourable. Stir in the protein powder, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla, and salt until completely smooth.
    Pour over the base and spread evenly. Place in the freezer for 15–20 minutes to firm.

Date Caramel

  • Add the dates, nut butter, vanilla, salt, and 2 tablespoons of warm water to a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add another tablespoon of water if needed to create a thick, spreadable caramel.
    Spread the date caramel evenly over the chilled coconut layer. 

Chocolate Topping

  • Place chocolate chips and coconut oil in small dish and microwave with 20 second bursts stirring between each one until melted and smooth.
    Or use double boiler method - (pot of boiling water with a bowl resting on top) melt the chocolate chips and the coconut oil together.
    Once melted, pour over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
    Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, toasted coconut, or chopped nuts if desired.
    Refrigerate for1–2 hours or freeze for approximately 45–60 minutes until firm.
    Remove from the pan, allow to soften for a few minutes if frozen, and slice into 16 squares or your preferred size.
    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freezer for up to 2 months.
    If freezing, allow the bites to sit at room temperature for several minutes before eating for the best texture.  
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