Vegan Coconut Chocolate & Almond Butter Filling

Maybe you’re not a vegan… but eating raw, vegan chocolate that is deliciously creamy is the perfect indulgence. Sure, we’ve heard of “healthy indulgences” before, but do they ever actually taste good while yielding health benefits? This chocolate is unlike any other. It’s smooth, soft, a little coco-nutty, totally chocolaty, and melts right in your mouth. The truth is nobody can live without chocolate, and everybody could use a little less dairy. This chocolate recipe allows you to have the pride of making homemade chocolate from scratch, while also treating your body and taste buds. Fact about dairy: According to Forks Over Knives, dairy products especially cow’s milk increases risks for many conditions such as juvenile diabetes.

Fact about cacao: Cacao is rich in antioxidants and helps increase energy levels and strengthen the immune system.  {here}Fact about coconut oil: As quoted on Doctor Oz’s website, “Coconut oil can boost thyroid function helping to increase metabolism, energy and endurance.” {Here}

Ingredients:

• 1/2 Cup Coconut oil
• 2/3 Cup Raw Cacao Powder (not Cocoa!)
• 5 Tblsp Maple Syrup (Organic Agave Maple Syrup)
• 1/3 Cup Unsweetened Shredded Coconut
• Dash of Himalayan Sea Salt
• 1/2 Cup Almond Butter or any type of nut butter/any flavor

Kitchen Appliances/Utensils

• Blender
• Freezer
• Small Pan
• Spoon
• Spatula, Mixing Scraper, or any item to smooth
• 1/3 Measuring Cup
• 1/2 Measuring Cup
• Tablespoon
• Knife or Pizza Cutter

And now for the steps...

1. Place 1/2 cup melted coconut oil, 2/3 cup raw cacao powder, 5 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, and a dash of sea salt in the blender.
2. Blend the above together until smooth.
3. Pour half of the mixture into the pan and place in the freezer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from freezer and smoothly smear ½ cup of almond butter on top or until fully covered.
5. Place chocolate back in freezer for 30 minutes.
6. Remove, cut into pieces, and indulge!

Article Author: Healthy in The WoodsCheck out their google+ page {here}