Zesty Coconut Lime Chia Bars (Print Version)

Creamy coconut lime chia bars on a nutty crust. Fresh, zesty, and perfect for summer.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Base

01 - 1 cup (100 g) unsweetened shredded coconut
02 - 1 cup (120 g) almond flour
03 - 1/4 cup (60 ml) maple syrup
04 - 1/4 cup (60 ml) coconut oil, melted
05 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

→ Chia Pudding Layer

06 - 1 cup (240 ml) canned full-fat coconut milk, well stirred
07 - 1/4 cup (45 g) chia seeds
08 - 3 tablespoons (45 ml) maple syrup
09 - Zest of 2 limes
10 - Juice of 2 limes
11 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
12 - Pinch of salt

→ Topping

13 - 1/4 cup (25 g) unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted
14 - Zest of 1 lime

# Steps:

01 - Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a medium bowl, combine shredded coconut, almond flour, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and sea salt. Mix until the mixture holds together when pressed.
03 - Press the base mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Place in the freezer while preparing the chia pudding layer.
04 - In another bowl, whisk together coconut milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, lime zest, lime juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
05 - Let the chia mixture sit for 10 minutes, then whisk again to break up any clumps. Pour evenly over the chilled base and smooth the top.
06 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the chia layer is firm and set.
07 - Once set, sprinkle the toasted coconut and additional lime zest over the top. Lift out of the pan using the parchment paper, slice into 12 bars, and serve chilled.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The contrast between the crunchy coconut base and creamy chia layer creates texture magic in every bite
  • You can make these ahead and they actually get better after a day in the fridge
  • They satisfy that sweet tooth craving while still feeling light and wholesome
02 -
  • Make sure your coconut milk is well stirred before measuring, or you might end up with separated layers
  • The base needs to be pressed firmly or it will crumble when you try to slice the bars
  • These really do need the full 4 hours to set properly, otherwise you will have a mess on your hands
03 -
  • Zest your limes before juicing them—it is so much easier that way
  • Use the back of a measuring cup to press the base down firmly and evenly