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.

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My coconut oil chocolates

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).

 

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Bubba G enjoying the chocolates

 

With love and light

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