You and your family will forever prefer this over commercial store-bought chocolate. You are in for a treat with this recipe. It contains 4 great superfoods; cacao powder, organic coconut oil, pure maple syrup, and sea salt, plus pure vanilla extract and organic coconut sugar. Wholesome goodness with real, clean ingredients!
Cacao beans have been prized for their medicinal properties for centuries. They are full of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and phytonutrients. They are antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, good for the heart and brain, and make you happy. Take care to source cacao powder vs cocoa powder. They come from the same bean, but the high temperatures used to process cocoa destroys much of the nutrients.
Organic coconut oil can be controversial, unrightfully so in my opinion. I believe it plays an important role in a healthy diet. “So despite the somewhat negative response to coconut oil the last few years, I’m still a huge advocate of coconut oil for reducing inflammation, supporting cognitive and heart health, and boosting energy levels — just to name a few of the many coconut oil benefits.” Dr. Josh Axe. I completely agree. Use organic refined coconut oil for a neutral flavor or organic virgin for more of a coconut flavor.
Pure maple syrup has antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties and adds the perfect sweetness to this chocolate. You must source pure maple syrup which is simply tree sap that has been boiled down with no added ingredients.
Sea salt contains trace minerals that are essential for health, including phosphorus, bromine, boron, zinc, iron, manganese, copper and silicon. Pink Himalayan, Celtic and Redmond Real Salt with no additives or chemicals are my favorites.
Pure vanilla extract isn’t considered a superfood in all circles, but does contain antioxidants, is anti-inflammatory and has cholesterol-lowering benefits. Make sure your source is free from additives, colorings or preservatives.
Organic coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and is a much healthier choice than refined sugar, which is completely devoid of any nutrition. It contains amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. But yes, it is still sugar. Consume in moderation.
You can eat this just as it is because you will have made delicious, wholesome chocolate, or use as a base recipe to make many different great treats. Our favorite way to make it is to pour into a sheet pan and swirl sunflower seed butter throughout. The result is even better than a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup. Use any nut or seed butter that you like.
You could also use themed molds for fun. Christmas trees for Christmas, hearts for Valentine’s Day, shamrocks for St. Patrick’s Day, pumpkins for Halloween, or whatever makes you happy. You could stir in or top with dried berries, mint, shredded coconut, pink Himalayan sea salt, cacao nibs, pistachios or any other nuts or seeds, cinnamon & cayenne for Mexican chocolate, fruit preserves & nut butter for PB&J, or even crispy bacon. They are all good!
Store in a refrigerator for a couple of weeks, or a freezer for a couple of months. They won’t last that long!
In Health,
Coach Nanette
