Chocolate Apricot Nut Bars

These are my version of a paleo chocoate covered granola bar:  they are homemade fruit and nut bars without any added sweeteners (except what's in the chocolate).  I put a light coating of chocolate on top and sprinkled a bit of unsweetened coconut for decoration (if you aren't a coconut fan just omit).  They only take about 5 minutes to make and are the perfect snack (or treat) on the go!  Everyone liked them so much I had to double the recipe and make more the second time around.  Enjoy!

A sweet chewy treat that's much healthier than your processed packaged granola bar!

Ingredients:
6oz package dried apricots
1/3c raw almonds, toasted (*see note below)
pinch sea salt
4tbs unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
1/2c chocolate chips (I used 60% cocoa)

*To roast 1lb raw almonds, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake them in the oven at 350F for 10 minutes or until fragrant.  Trust me, they taste so much better when you roast them yourself!

Directions:
1. In a food processor, process your apricots, almonds, salt, and 2tbs coconut until finely chopped and well combined (the mixture should get pretty sticky and want to ball together like dough).
2. Line a 9x5" bread pan with nonstick foil or parchment paper.  Press your almond mixture into the bottom of the pan evenly.
3. In a small microwavable bowl, melt chocolate stirring after 1 minute increments until melted.  Pour over the top of the apricot bars and spread evenly with a spatula.  Sprinkle with remaining coconut.
4. Place in the fridge for 15 minutes or until chocolate sets.  Remove from the pan and cut into bars.  Enjoy!
Tip:  If you are taking one on the go, wrap it in parchment to keep it from sticking.