Sometimes, you just have to let the ingredients speak for themselves. That’s exactly what this recipe does! Completely raw vegan, these key lime coconut bars have a zesty flair, nutty crust, and great textures. No, the key lime layer does not resemble some nuclear green that looks incredibly unhealthy for you. This filling is closer to beige or off white with small speckles of green from the lime zest.
On the topic of limes, the recipe does call for freshly squeezed key lime juice. Now, if you cannot get your hands on key limes, you can use regular limes as a replacement. The same thing applies for the zest, as you will just use zest from whichever limes you can get your hands on. Limes offer a wide variety of nutrients, with one lime providing 32% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. Both lime juice and lime zest contain nutrients that may support heart health and improve the appearance of skin. Before you zest the limes, make sure to give them a good rinse and then pat them dry.
Although this recipe is made with raw vegan, all-natural ingredients, it does contain a hefty amount of calories. Coconut oil, raw walnuts, and raw cashews are calorically dense, so make sure you don’t eat all of these bars at once. One square will not only satiate you, but it will also satisfy your sweet tooth. The healthy fats are beneficial for the brain, heart, and your appetite. Plus, the fiber in the cashews and walnuts will keep you from eating 10 squares at time. Happy desserting!
- Prep Time:20m
- Total Time:20m
- Serves: 16 servings
- Category: Full Body Cleanse Approved, Desserts, Raw, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 c raw walnuts
- 1 c desiccated coconut
- 1 c dates, pitted
- 1 tsp. alcohol-free vanilla extract
- Splash of water
- Pinch of sea salt
For the Key Lime Layer
- 2 1/4 c raw cashews (soaked in water for 2 hours then drained)
- 1/2 c freshly squeezed key lime juice
- 1/4 c grade A maple syrup
- 2 tsp. alcohol-free vanilla extract
- Lime zest (about 1-2 tsp)
- 1/3 c coconut oil
Instructions
For the Crust
- Add all of the ingredients to a food processor and blend until a sticky mound begins to form. It will clump into a dough-like ball.
- You may need to stop blending, scrape down the sides, and continue blending to fully incorporate the ingredients.
- Line a freezer-safe 8x8 pan with parchment paper and press the crust into the pan, creating an even layer. Place in the freezer and get ready to make the key lime layer.
For the Key Lime Layer
- Add the cashews, lime juice, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and lime zest to a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
- Halfway through the blending process, add the coconut oil and continue blending.
- Remove the pan with the crust from the freezer and pour the key lime layer on top of the crust and spread it into an even layer. Garnish with more lime zest and desiccated coconut if you want to.
- Cover with foil and freeze for at least three hours, or until set.
- Remove from freezer, cut into about 16 squares, and enjoy.
