I’m always on the hunt for great guilt free desserts and snacks I can put in my boys lunches. These are one of the winners I found. They are paleo and vegan treats, but you’d never know it. I have even brought them to parties and they have been a hit! I am wishing that I had one to nibble on right now, as I type!

1 tablespoon ground chia seeds (I grind mine in a coffee grinder)
3 tablespoons water
1 cup creamy almond butter*
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup dark chocolate chips (DF, if need be)

Preheat the oven to 350F and line a 9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper. In a large bowl combine the ground chia seeds and water, and stir well until a gel-like texture starts to form. Add in the almond butter, coconut sugar, vanilla, baking soda, and salt, and stir again until a thick batter is created. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.

Transfer the batter to the lined baking sheet, and use a spatula to spread it evenly into the bottom of the pan. Because the batter is so thick, you might want to use your hands to press it in. (Get them wet to help prevent sticking.) Bake until the top is lightly golden, about 20 minutes, then cool completely before cutting and serving. The blondies become more sturdy as they cool. Slice into 16 squares and serve at room temperature.

Food Photography by: Rebecca O’Hara Photography

Original Recipe found here