Healthy Twix Bites

If you’re anything like me, you enjoy a nice sweet snack after a hearty, savory meal. During the colder months when we spend so much time indoors binge-watching our favorite shows, it is all too easy to get into the habit of binging on unhealthy snacks too. Who says the road to health and wellness can’t be sweet and delicious

In this recipe, I’ve taken the decadence of a Twix bar, and put my own healthy spin on it by using more nutritious ingredients, without all of the additives that are found in most store-bought candy bars.

My healthy Twix bites recipe is quick, easy, and will satisfy any sweet tooth. Make a batch to keep for yourself when you’re craving something sweet, or share it at your next holiday party. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, they’re sure to be a hit! Here’s how I put my own spin on these delectable treats.

Healthy Ingredient Swaps

Coconut and Almond Flour - using these in place of traditional flours means they are gluten-free to cut down on inflammation and makes them a great option for anyone following a diet that eliminates grains or gluten.

Coconut Oil - This healthy source of fat is a perfect swap for the inflammatory oils (such as canola and vegetable) that are found in many dessert recipes. 

Grass-Fed Butter - Another source of healthy fat, grass-fed butter contains more nutrients, including Vitamin A, beta carotene, and omega-3 fatty acids, than its conventional counterparts.

Maple Syrup - On your journey toward health, maple syrup should become a staple in your pantry! This decadent sweetener is low-glycemic, meaning it helps to keep blood sugars more stable without compromising taste or sweetness.

Almond Butter - Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, almond butter is a heart-healthy way to pack in plenty of protein, with a familiar, satisfying, nutty flavor.

Collagen Peptides - What if I told you that you can promote healthy joints, radiant skin, and strong bones while enjoying a delectable dessert? Collagen peptides help to improve health and longevity, making it a great addition to a variety of recipes!

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350° F.

While waiting for the oven to heat up, line a cupcake pan with paper or silicone liners.

First, we will work on the shortbread crust. Gently mix together the coconut flour, almond flour, melted butter or oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Set aside.

For the caramel layer, use a separate bowl to mix together the almond butter, maple syrup, coconut oil, and sea salt. Set aside.

In a third bowl, create the chocolate topping by mixing together the melted dark chocolate chips, melted coconut oil, sea salt, and collagen peptides. Set aside.

In your lined cupcake pan, use a spoon to fill each compartment about ⅓ - ⅔  of the way full with the first shortbread crust mixture. Bake in a 350° F oven for approximately 10 minutes.

Allow the first layer to cool completely, and then gently add in the caramel mixture to fill another ⅓ or so of each compartment. Place the pan into the refrigerator for 15 - 20 minutes to allow the caramel layer to set. Remove from the refrigerator and add the chocolate topping, then place into the freezer to set completely.

Store the Twix bites in the freezer until ready to serve. These make for a great dessert to keep on hand for any time you need to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Ingredients

First Layer: Shortbread Crust

1 cup of coconut flour

1/3 cup of almond flour

2 tablespoons of grass-fed butter or coconut oil, melted

1/3 cup of maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Middle Layer - Rich Caramel

1/2 cup almond butter

1/4 cup maple syrup

2 tbsp melted coconut oil

1/2 tsp sea salt

Top Layer - Decadent Chocolate

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, melted

1 tbsp melted coconut oil

1/4 tsp sea salt

1/4 cup collagen peptide