Raw Almond Butter Cups

Once again, I find myself taking a recipe from my lovely friend (Recently left me to go back to Washington!) Mariya at My Craft Affair.  She always seems to come up with the most delicious sweets!  Today's recipe is Homemade, Raw Almond Butter Cups.  Think Reese's cups, but homemade,  additive free and require no baking!  I knew these would be good, but truthfully I was shocked at just how good they were!  There is also lots of room to add other ingredients and play with what you like best.   So enjoy!  I know I am!

for the base:

• 3/4 cup raw almonds
• 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter (or nut butter of choice like almond etc.)
• 1.5 tablespoons coconut oil, warmed if necessary
• 1.5 tablespoons honey (or pure maple syrup or agave nectar)
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• pinch of salt

for the topping:

• 3 tablespoons coconut oil
• 3 tablespoons honey (pure maple syrup or 2 tbsp agave nectar)
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• pinch of salt
• a bit of sliced almond or shredded coconut for garnish (you could really use anything you want, sprinkles, mini chocolate chips etc)

• 1. Add almonds and oats into a high-speed blender and blend on high until a flour forms. Dump into a large bowl and break up any clumps with your fingers.
• 2. Add the peanut butter, coconut oil, honey (or alternative), cinnamon, vanilla, and salt into the bowl. Stir until thoroughly combined. The dough should be fairly sticky like cookie dough.
• 3. Line a mini (or regular) muffin tin with paper liners or use a silicone muffin holder. Press the dough into each muffin cup until it is even and smooth.
• 4. To make the chocolate sauce: Whisk together the coconut oil, honey (or alternative), cocoa powder, and salt until no clumps remain. Spoon the sauce over top each of the cups, distributing evenly. Garnish cups with sliced almonds or shredded coconut if desired.
• 5. Place in the freezer in a flat area for 30-45 minutes, until firm. Pop out the cups and enjoy right away or wait 5 or 10 minutes to soften up a bit.