Dark Chocolate, Coconut and Almond Hearts of Joy


One of my favorite childhood candy bars was Almond Joy. Sweet chewy coconut, toasted almonds and milk chocolate. However, that was a long time ago and I don't eat that kind candy anymore. I found this healthy, decadent recipe from TastyYummies and it's soooo good.

I added the crunch of roasted almonds and added a pinch of Hawaiian Red Alaea Sea Salt to the tops. Healthy ingredients like 100% cacao chocolate, organic coconut and maple syrup bak this a guilt free candy. There is no refined sugar, it's vegan, gluten free and literally melts in your mouth.

I usually use candy molds because I love making themed shapes, but you can also use mini muffin pan and add cupcake liners. The cupcake liners make the candy easy hold and eat without getting chocolate all over your fingers! 




Dark Chocolate, Coconut and Almond Hearts of Joy

Makes 12-15 hearts or mini cups

Coconut Filling:
2 1/2 cups (8-oz bag) 100% organic shredded coconut - unsweetened
1/2 cup melted organic virgin coconut oil
1/4 cup organic maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Topping:
6 ounces organic dark chocolate baking bar - 100% cacao, unsweetened
1 tablespoon organic virgin coconut oil
1/3 cup organic maple syrup
Roasted almonds (see below) - coarsely chopped
Pinch of Hawaiian Red Alaea Sea Salt (optional)

Roast almonds in a 300 degree oven, for about 15 minutes or until a nice nutty smell wafts from the oven. Watch them carefully because they could burn quickly. Once cooled, give the almonds a course chop.


In a large mixing bowl, combine all the coconut filling ingredients and mix until well combined. Scoop 1 tablespoon of coconut filling into the bottom of a candy mold or a mini muffin pan lined with paper liners. Using your fingers press the coconut mixture down into the candy mold, try to make sure its evenly pressed. Place in freezer on a flat surface until frozen, about 30 minutes.


After 30 minutes (when the coconut is frozen) it's time to make the chocolate topping. Melt chocolate with 1 tablespoon coconut oil in the microwave at 10 second intervals, stirring in between intervals. When the chocolate is melted, smooth and silky, add the maple syrup and stir until well combined. 


Take the coconut filled candy molds out of the freezer and spoon chocolate mixture over the top. Top with roasted almonds, a pinch of sea salt or any other topping you fancy and place back into the freezer to chill for another 30 minutes. 


You will be delighted by how delicious "healthy" can be. Store chocolates in an airtight container, between layers of parchment paper, in the refrigerator. Keep chilled because these candies will start to get soft at room temperatures above 76 degrees Fahrenheit.


Hope you enjoy!



Pomegranate and Acai Super Smoothie


Pomegranate powder is made from the whole pomegranate fruit. This ruby red powder is chocked full of vitamins and minerals and is particularly high in Vitamin C and potassium. It's sweet fruity flavor can be used in a variety of recipes. Pomegranate has three times the amount of antioxidants found in green tea and has been shown to be effective in fighting certain cancers, lowering blood pressure and supporting cardiovascular health.

The deep purple hue of Acai Powder indicates the abundance of powerful antioxidants, which makes it exceptional at fighting free radicals and promoting longevity. Acai is low in sugar, and is high in protein and fiber which helps to keep you feeling full throughout your day. The acai berry is said to be one of the most nutritious foods on Earth.





Pomegranate & Acai Super Smoothie

Makes 2 servings

2 cups frozen strawberries
1 1/2 cups almond milk ice cubes (see below)
1 frozen banana
1 1/2 cups pomegranate juice
1 tablespoon acai powder
1 tablespoon pomegranate powder

To make almond ice, simply freeze unsweetened almond milk in an ice cube tray until solid. Almond ice creates a lovely creamy texture, similar to a milk shake. While blending if the consistency is too thick add additional unsweetened almond milk.

Blend all ingredients together until frosty and delicious.

Enjoy!