Coconut oil chocolates

This is another delicious recipe that I found on the Peaceful Hippie Facebook page. It is quick and easy to make and a nutritious dairy-free chocolatey treat.

Here are some health benefits of dark chocolate (From University of Michigan Integrative Medicine):

• Contains flavonoids called procyanidins & epicatechins; flavonoids are part of a group of antioxidants known as polyphenols and are found in a variety of foods including dark chocolate, tea, red wine, and various fruits and vegetables
• Decreases LDL (“bad”) cholesterol oxidation
• Reduces the risk of blood clots
• Increases blood flow in arteries and the heart
• May lower high blood pressure
• Cocoa may have a beneficial effect on cholesterol levels because it consists mainly of stearic acid and oleic acid. Stearic acid is a saturated fat, but unlike most saturated fatty acids, it does not raise blood cholesterol levels. Oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat, does not raise cholesterol and may even reduce it.
• May improve mood and pleasure by boosting serotonin and endorphin levels in the brain
• Regular intake is associated with better cognitive performance in the elderly
• Contains a number of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium

Here are some health benefits of coconut oil (From Coconutoil.com):

• Helps to boost metabolism and raises body temperature to promote thyroid health.
• In combination with a low carbohydrate diet, it may contribute to weight loss.
• May be beneficial for Alzheimer’s patients.
• Helpful for a variety of skin conditions (when used topically)
• Anti-bacterial and anti-viral.

 

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups extra virgin organic coconut oil
• 1 cup raw, unsweetened cacao powder
• 1/3 cup maple syrup (or honey)
• 1 1/2 cups walnuts, roughly chopped

 

METHOD

1. Whip coconut oil until fluffy (2-3 minutes)
2. Add cocoa powder and maple syrup and continue to whip unit completely combined (about 1 minute, scrape sides as needed).
3. Add chopped walnuts and mix to combine.
4. Pour into chocolate moulds (I used silicon ice cube trays).
5. Refrigerate (and store in the fridge).

 

 

With love and light

Helene
www.evolvingmamma.com
www.lightchiro.com.au