I'm a cocoa advocate.
Clients are often shocked because chocolate is often associated with guilt. I was a choco-holic and I'm on a mission to change your relationship with this wonderful food (You might be interested to read about my 5 healthy ways to get your chocolate fix here ).
Raw cacao, the unprocessed counterpart of cocoa, provides numerous health benefits.
Take away the sugar, dairy (which inhibits the absorption of the antioxidants found in cacao), soy fillers found in candy bars and heavily processed chocolate, you have one of the most nutrient-dense superfood.
This is why it's so worth it to spend a few minutes to whip up a batch of these brownie batter bites and indulge in some guilt-free chocolatey goodness.
Here are some blissful facts you need to know:
Anadamide (a neurotransmitter given the name that's synonymous to bliss and joy) is increased in your brain after consuming chocolate.
Cocoa relaxes blood vessels and improve blood flow. It's effectiveness has been compared to Viagra by Harvard scientists (read more here).
The minerals and fibre found in raw cacao have a balancing effect on blood sugar levels which help to reduce sugar cravings.
Notes on cocoa:
The high heat processing reduce a lot of the naturally existing antioxidants and minerals.
Dutch processed cocoa has the least amount of nutrients because it's processed in an alkaline solution.
I recommend raw cacao from a reputable source and always read the nutrition facts label to make sure you get the minerals, fibers, and sometimes even B vitamins that you paid for.
Brownie Batter Bites
Serves: make 10-12 small bites
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15min
Ingredients
1/4 cup raw cacao powder (I love Organic Traditions)
1/2 cup coconut flour
1/4 cups unsweetened nut butter (I love Adam's PB )
1/8 cup maple syrup
1/8 cup vegan fermented protein powder (optional, I love Genuine Health Chocolate Fermented Vegan Protein Powder)
1/4 cup filtered water (or as needed)
Directions
Mix all ingredients in a mixing bowl except for the water. Add water a little at a time and only until there is still dry ingredients on the bottom. Combine well.
Shape the dough into bite-sized balls with your hands
Notes
Keep refrigerated for 2 days, maybe up to 5 days, but mine are usually gone very quickly.