Paleo "Samoa Cookie" Bars
I swear these taste almost exactly like those delicious Somoa Girl Scout Cookies! They are obviously a little bit different but still give the satisfaction of eating a Girl Scout Cookie without the common allergen-containing ingredients (like dairy, grains, nuts, etc.). PLUS, these are filled with protein so you don't necessarily get that sugar crash after eating a few. I like to use the Thrive Market "Grass-Fed Vanilla Collagen Peptides" but there are certainly other collagen brands you can use. If you can't find "vanilla-flavored" collagen, opt for the grass-fed unflavored version and then add a little vanilla extract (preferably without the alcohol content if you are sticking to paleo/aip).
These bars definitely don't last long in my house. Make sure to store them in the fridge because they will melt if they are left out in a warm kitchen. That being said, this is a great treat to travel with...just make sure to bring an ice pack to keep them nice and cool.
Paleo "Samoa Cookie" Bars
Ingredients:
8 oz. pitted dates
1 scoop vanilla collagen peptide powder (roughly 1/8 cup)
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 cup (paleo) chocolate chips
Sea salt
Instructions:
In a food processor or high-powered blender, process the pitted dates, vanilla collagen, shredded coconut, and maple syrup until the pitted dates are chopped into small pieces and mixed together with the other ingredients
Spread the mixture evenly on a 9x9 pan (I use silicone pans so they don't stick. Place a layer of wax paper down if you are using any other type of pan)
Evenly layer chocolate chips on top of the first layer and place the pan under the broiler for about 2 minutes or until the chocolate starts to melt.
Using a spoon or silicone spatula, spread the melted chocolate evenly across the top and sprinkle a little sea salt on top.
Place the entire pan in the freezer for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate hardens.
Cut or break into "bars" and enjoy!
