This delicious raw cacao bliss ball recipe was created by our Naturopath, Natalie. ENJOY!
Ingredients:
¼ – ½ Cup raw cashews or almonds finely chopped.
2 tablespoons of agave nectar (this is super sweet but low GI).
1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract or the seeds of half a vanilla bean.
A handful of dates soaked in water for half an hour then chopped.
3 tablespoons raw cacao powder.
2 tablespoons of organic cold pressed coconut oil (if it has set hard, melt it over a double boiler. Add a little more if your mix is dry).
¼ cup desiccated coconut.
Method:
Mix all the ingredients together except for the desiccated coconut. If you prefer, you can blend it all together for a smoother consistency.
Roll a tablespoon of the mix between your hands to make a ball.
Roll the balls in the desiccated coconut until covered.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge (the balls chill they will become firmer).
Variations:
There are so many variations to this recipe! You can add some Tahini which will help them stick together better, Goji berries, chopped-up dried apricots, spirulina powder, or soya milk if you like a more mild flavour. Just experiment with things you like in varying amounts to make some yummy and healthy treats!
If you add some tahini and oats, you can also make this recipe into a slice. Let it chill in the fridge then cut into slices that can be individually wrapped and stored in the fridge.
WHY THEY ARE GOOD FOR YOU!
Coconut oil ~ Full of essential fatty acids particularly lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid which have properties including antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial. The health benefits include maintaining good cholesterol levels, weight management, increased immunity, improved digestion and nutrient metabolism – just to name a few.
Raw cacao powder ~ This is what chocolate is made from, but the raw powder still has all the health benefits of this super little bean. Raw cacao has 360% more antioxidants than processed beans. It contains protein, zinc, omega 3 oils, calcium, chromium, sulphur, potassium, and is one of the best known food sources of magnesium which is an essential nutrient that is used in almost every biological process in our body.
Agave Syrup ~ This is a great alternative to regular cane sugar. It has a low GI (glycemic index) which means it is more beneficial to maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. It is also sweeter tasting than sugar so you don’t need to use as much (about 30% less) to achieve a sweet taste.
Nuts ~ Packed full of protein, essential minerals, essential fatty acids, nuts can help keep blood sugar levels stabilise, and are a healthy snack between meals.
