Lemon Bars

Yield: 8x8 pan

Filling:

1 cup cashews

1 cup coconut cream

2 tbsp arrowroot or cornstarch

1/2 cup lemon juice

1 tbsp lemon zest

pinch salt

1/4 cup maple syrup

2 tbsp icing sugar

Crust:

1 cup oats

1 cup almonds

1/4 tsp salt

2 tbsp coconut sugar

1 tbsp maple syrup

4-5 tbsp coconut oil, melted

1. Add cashews to a small bowl and cover with boiling hot water. Let soak for 1 hour, then drain thoroughly.

2. In the meantime, preheat oven to 350F. Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

3. Add oats, almonds, salt, and coconut sugar to a high speed blender and mix on high until a fine meal is achieved.

4. Transfer to a medium mixing bowl and add maple syrup and coconut oil, starting with lesser end of range. Stir with a spoon to combine until a loose dough is formed. You should be able to squeeze the mixture between two fingers and form a dough instead of it crumbling. If too dry, add a bit more melted coconut oil.

5. Transfer mixture to prepared dish and spread evenly. Press down firmly until evenly distributed and well packed.

6. Bake for 15 minutes, then increase heat to 375F and bake for 5 to 8 minutes more, or until the edges are golden brown and there is some browning on the surface. Remove from oven to cool slightly, then reduce oven heat to 350F.

7. Once cashews are soaked and drained, add to a high speed blender with coconut cream, arrowroot starch, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and maple syrup. Mix on high until very creamy and smooth.

8. Pour filling over the pre-baked crust and spread into an even layer. Tap on counter to remove any air bubbles.

9. Bake for 20 to 23 minutes or until the edges look very slightly dry and the center appears jiggly but not liquidy.

10. Let rest for 10 minutes, then transfer to refrigerator to let cool completely (uncovered) for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

11. To serve, slice and sift with icing sugar (optional). Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, up to 4 days, though best within the first 2 days.

https://minimalistbaker.com/creamy-vegan-lemon-bars/