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Chocolate Peppermint Patty Squares -GF/V

Chocolate and peppermint has always been a classic winning combination of ingredients (which is why i love this mint chocolate shake). It’s simple, tasty and a hit with just about everyone. But it does normally come in the form of sugary desserts- which isn’t really my thing. Hence why these gluten free, vegan peppermint patty squares are such a staple in my house for a healthy dessert!

One of the reasons I use nuts as the base for so many of my desserts (like these almond sugar cookies!) is because they’re so nutritionally dense! With the inclusion of nuts these peppermint patty squares are satiating but also fueling. They’ll keep you full and give you that decadent  taste without the sugars that go with it.

While they don’t exactly mimic traditional peppermint patty squares they are quite addictive for everyone in my family!

Because the majority of my desserts don’t contain sugar, most people think I never eat it (HA). And while I do like to keep my sugar habits pretty minimal (here’s a few tips on how to cut back on sugar!), the main reason you don’t see any in my recipes is because I like to be able to have my daughter taste test everything.

I try not to eat foods that i wouldn’t feed my toddler (or baby!) and since I refuse to give them processed sugar, I have begun to find ways around including it in my baking.

By doing this, most of my recipes end up being gluten free and vegan simply because I like to use as many real food ingredients as possible.

And while my desserts will not be overly sweat, they will be tasty, addictive and healthy. Homemade is worth it y’all.

But the biggest perk of these peppermint patty squares?

These gluten free squares require zero baking- wahoo! So this makes them ideal for the busy mom who doesn’t have much time to spend in the kitchen whipping up delicious treats.

You can keep a stack of these in your freezer for quick grabbing as they make a simple but healthy dessert or snack. And because they’re contain minimal sugars they’re also great for kids! It’s an all around #momwin

Ingredients in The Chocolate Peppermint Patty Squares

For the base

• 2 cups oats ground into flour (about 1.5 cups flour)
• 2/3 cups almonds
• 1 cup walnuts
• 1/2 cup cashews
• 1/2 cup gluten free oats
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 4 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon raw cacao or coco powder
• 1 tablespoon coconut palm sugar
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut\
• 6 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons almond milk
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

For the topping

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (measured solid)
• 1/2 cup enjoy life chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon coconut palm sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon mint & peppermint extract
• 1/8 cup chopped almonds or coconut for topping

Kitchen Tools You May Find Helpful

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Silicone spatula
• Measuring spoons

How To Make The Gluten Free Squares

In a food processor, roughly chop the almonds, walnuts and cashews. Leave some intact for desired texture.

In a large bowl, combine the oat flour, nut mixture, oats, salt, coco powder and palm sugar. Mix.

In a small bowl melt the coconut oil and combine the remaining wet ingredients.

Pour wet into dry and combine until mixture is starting to look wet.

Line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper. Dump the base into the pan and use another piece of parchment to press the mixture down throughout the pan evenly.

Press down firmly– otherwise the squares will crumble.

Place the base mixture into the freezer.

In the meantime, combine the coconut oil and chocolate chips into a small pot and heat over medium to low heat. Too high and the chocolate will burn.

Once the coconut oil it melted and the chips are halfway melted turn the burner off. Add in the remaining wet ingredients and stir until combined.

Remove the base mixture from the freezer and pour the chocolate overtop using a silicone spatula to distribute it. The chocolate mixture will harden quickly so move fast.

Finally, top the mixture with crushed almonds or coconut and press them into the chocolate with the spatula.

Return the pan to the freezer for 30-60 minutes to set. Cut the mixture into squares.

Leave in the freezer until  ready to serve then place in the fridge for ten minutes.

Makes 16-20 squares depending on preferred size.

Don’t forget to pin these healthy chocolate peppermint patties!

Grab your printable!

These no bake and gluten free chocolate peppermint patty squares are not only tasty but healthy too! They contain minimal processed sugars and are a great dessert or indulgent snack option for kids. Plus, they’re easy to make so perfect for busy moms!