Ingredients: 5 oz - sweetened condensed milk * 1 - stick butter (1/2 cup), not margarine (softened) * 1 - tsp vanilla extract * 2 - cups powdered sugar * 1 - 14 oz bag sweetened flaked Coconut * 1 - 24 oz milk chocolate almond bark or dark chocolate chips * 1 - cup whole dry roasted almondsDirections: Blend the sweetened condensed milk, butter and vanilla extract. Add the powdered sugar a little at a time, stirring until smooth. Stir in the coconut, the mixture should be firm. Pat firmly into a 9 x 13 x 2 inch pan. Chill in the fridge until very firm. While the mixture chills go ahead and dry roast the almonds. Spread the almonds in an un greased baking pan. Place in 350ºF oven and bake 10 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant; stir once or twice to ensure even browning. Almonds will continue to roast slightly after removing them from the oven. Now in a double boiler over hot, not boiling, water melt the chocolate chips or milk chocolate almond bark, stirring often. When completely melted set aside. Remove the coconut mixture from the refrigerator and cut into 1 x 2 inch squares. Place 2 whole almonds on top of each square. Use a fork to dip each bar into the melted chocolate mixture. Tap fork gently against the side of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate. Lay the squares on waxed paper after dipping until firm. Great Valentine's Day idea! ~ Chef ~
