I had a hankering for something with coconut and chocolate and in a manageable size — a bite size. Instead of buying that junk they call candy at the store, you can make your own treats with real ingredients and it only takes a few minutes.
Coconut Has So Many Benefits
Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, which is known for being antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal. Lauric and palmitic fatty acids are found in mother’s breast milk and help protect the infant against pathogens. Studies have shown the antimicrobial benefits of coconut oil.
Investigations on the effects of the medium chain triglycerides in coconut oil, on neurological diseases such Alzheimer’s, show benefits. Other research shows coconut oil to benefit epilepsy.
Coconut oil has a medium smoke point which makes it really good for pan sauteing and baking. It tastes delicious in baked goods and is great to add to shakes and other beverages.
Click here for more information about coconut oil and what to look for when you buy it.
I am trying to get more coconut– in all forms — into my diet so I am using it in many ways. Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is a dessert or treat. Don’t get me wrong, I also use it in food dishes, but here, I put together something that I really like and that is quick and easy to make.
Don’t you sometimes get a craving for something sweet, but only need a small amount? A little coconut and a little chocolate always makes anything so satisfying… I think you are going to love this treat!
Raw Double Chocolate Coconut Bites (Paleo, GAPS)
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups shredded coconut (where to buy coconut products)
- 1/4 cup coconut spread
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (where to buy)
- 8 pitted dates
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 3 -4 ounces melted chocolate
Equipment
- Food processor (where to buy a food processor)
- cookie sheet lined with parchment (where to buy parchment paper)
- small pot, a bowl
Instructions
- Split open the dates and remove the pits (I always count the pits to make sure I do not miss any)
- Process the dates first until it is smooth
- Add the coconut spread, vanilla and the cocoa powder and process until well combined
- Add the shredded coconut last and process until well mixed — do not over process or it will become too oily
- Transfer the batter to a bowl for easy use
- With a teaspoon form small balls and place on the parchment lined cookie sheet
- In the small pot gently melt the chocolate bar
- Dip the balls into the chocolate and place back on the parchment paper
- Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving
- Keep these in the freezer or refrigerator in a container for a bite sized treat!
Sources for chocolate:
Enjoy Life Chocolate Chunk – This one is very low in sugar
Lindt Chocolate 90% Cacao — Dark Supreme – This one is extremely low in sugar
Liberty Chocolate – this one is made with honey and so technically is GAPS legal
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Refrigerator Time: 1 hour
Yield: About 18 bites
Shared at: My Meatless Monday, Barnyard Hop, Slightly Indulgent Tuesday, Tasteful Tuesday, Hearth & Soul Hop, Gluten free Wednesday, Real Food Wednesday, Allergy Free Wednesday, Healthy 2Day, Party Wave Wednesday, Whole Food Wednesday, Thank Your Body Thursday, Tasty Traditions, Gluten Free Friday, Foodie Friday
