Thank-you for all the positive feedback on my recent Sweets Made Healthy blog post. The recipes went over so well I thought I would keep the recipe theme going.
Going to a friend’s for brunch or dinner, consider making dessert a healthier option by bringing one of these along. You can also enjoy at home or on the go as a satisfying mid-day, post-workout or evening snack.
Caveman Balls (No Bake)
Imagine a chocolate brownie joins forces with a peanut butter cup and magically became a bite size ball. These little treats are divine.
¾ plus 2 TBSP nut butter
¼ c. Maple syrup
2 tsp or more water
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
⅔ cup almond flour
3 TBSP cacao powder
Pinch sea salt
Mix together in one bowl w fork. Add a tsp of water if too dry. Should be wet and a little sticky but seem formable ( without sticking too much to hands). Add more water if any crumbling. Set for 5-10 min in fridge or less in freezer. Coat hands with coconut oil and roll balls. I use a cookie scoop to make all balls identical in size. Option to swirl in a bowl of unsweetened coconut flakes (optional) for a nice white coating that adds a bit of crunch.
Paleo Chocolate Chip Cookies
My go to chocolate chip recipe that is super easy. Start to finish about 15 mins. Cookies are moist and chewy. I sometimes add coconut milk ice cream between two for a delicious ice cream sammie.
½ cup nut butter ( I like natural unsalted smooth peanut butter the best, Darren prefers half peanut/half almond butter to make the total 1/2 cup)
½ cup coconut sugar
1 large egg
½ tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp baking soda
¼ cup shredded coconut
¼ cup dark chocolate chips
Option: ¼ cup raisins or chopped dates. Skip if you want more typical chocolate chip cookie. Add if you want more trail mix type taste.
Preheat oven to 350F. Mix with large metal spoon or fork until fairly smooth. Add chips ( an dried fruit). Place in fridge for 5-10 minutes as dough may be quite wet depending on nut butter texture. Dollop tablespoon size balls 1-2 inches apart or better yet, use cookie scoop to place balls on non-stick baking sheet or line with parchment paper. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and keep on cookie sheet until firm up (approx 2-3 minutes).
Hope these items bring a sweet smell to your kitchen and a satisfied feeling in your tummy. Sweet treats don’t have to be unhealthy. Bake at home, keep ingredients clean and most importantly – enjoy with those you love. Please email me your favourite healthy treat recipes so I can give them a try: michelle@crossfitdefy.com. Samples always welcome:)