Almond Joy Brownie Bites

(www.thefarmgirlrecipes.blogspot.com)

Brownie batter: homemade or from a boxed mix (I used a mix, they work great)

4 c. sweetened, shredded coconut

14 oz can sweetened condensed milk

4 dozen almonds (optional, my kids don't like almonds so I left them out in some)

1/2 c. heavy whipping cream

1/4 c. butter

1/2 c. brown sugar, packed

1/3 c. white sugar

1/8 t. salt

1/2 c. cocoa

1 t. vanilla

1.  To make brownies, preheat your oven according to brownie recipe directions and generously spray two mini muffin pans with nonstick spray. Fill cups about 1/2 full with brownie batter (use a scoop so each brownie bite is an uniform shape and size) and bake according to directions. When brownies are done, place pans on a cooling rack and remove brownies once cooled completely.

2.  While brownies are baking, combine cream and butter in medium saucepan over medium heat until mixture starts to boil.  Stir in brown sugar, white sugar and salt.  Continue cooking until sugars are dissolved, about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.  Remove from heat and whisk in cocoa and vanilla until smooth.  Let cool for 20 minutes.

3.  Once brownies and hot fudge have cooled, combine coconut and sweetened condensed milk in a medium bowl. With clean hands, roll coconut mixture into balls and press onto tops of brownie bites. Press an almond into the top of each. Place brownies in the freezer to harden for about 15 minutes.

4. Remove brownies from freezer and dip the tops in the chocolate. Place dipped brownies on a wax paper lined baking sheet and refrigerate until chocolate is set.  Serve and enjoy!