These little raw balls of brownie bliss are a definite must for real chocolate lovers – totally rich and dark they will satiate your cravings without the carbs or the processed sugar.And you can whip them up in less than 10 minutes!
The cacao needs no introduction– in its raw non heat treated form its choc (pardon the pun) full of antioxidants as well as PEA, (the feel good neurotransmitter responsible for the feeling of love!), tryptophan, and serotonin not to mention a range of vitamins and minerals including all important magnesium.
The walnuts are a great vegetarian source of Omega-3 essential fatty acids and given the latest tests on fish oil capsules reveal most are oxidised and therefore ineffective, this is definitely a safer, more sustainable way to reduce cholesterol. Not to mention all the other Omega 3 benefits such as lower risk of heart attack and stroke, boosted immune system, improved brain function, and relief to symptoms of inflammatory condition such as arthritis.
With all those nutritional goodies, its practically your duty to eat these little brownie balls! And given there are only one or two ingredients you can afford to source organic or high quality products for maximum flavour and benefits. Hats off to Teresa Cutter the healthy chef for the inspiration for these little gems.
How to make raw chocolate brownie balls
- 1 cup walnuts or pecans
- 6-10 pitted dates
- 3/4 – 1 cup raw cacao powder
- 3 teaspoons of coconut oil
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- dash of maple syrup or stevia to sweeten (optional)
Soak the dates for about 20 mins before you start. Whizz the nuts into crumbs in your quality blender then add dates, cacao and remaining ingredients. It will form a very sticky mass and easily form balls when rolled in the hands. I make balls on the smaller size ( a teaspoon full) and place on greaseproof paper in an airtight contain in the freezer. You can bring out a few minutes before serving or munch straight out of the box.
The rich flavour means you hopefully won’t eat them all at once. Great to serve with coffee for those unexpected visitors or to get you through a busy afternoon at work.