WHEN YOU WANT SOMETHING SWEET….
WHEN YOU WANT SOMETHING SWEET….
Yum! Homemade coconut chocolate spread!
A lot of people I know adore those sugary chocolate-based sandwich spreads that are so popular. Yes, they are tasty, but let’s be honest: You’re kidding yourself if you think they’re healthy. (I know a lot of moms who think they are a healthy alternative to nut butter.) Filled with corn syrup and hydrogenated fat, these sweet spreads are not a good health choice.
If you’re a fan of these sweet spreads, I have a suggestion: Ditch the store bought product and make your own. Thanks to the coconut, this delicious version is filled with fiber, medium chain fatty acids, immune system-boosting phytonutrients and lauric acid for brain health. This recipe was created for Coconut: The Complete Guide to the World’s Most Versatile Superfood (Sterling). We had so many recipes, however, it was (sadly!) cut from the book. I present it to you now. I know you’ll love it!
Ready to make some for yourself?
CHOCOLATE-COCONUT SPREAD
Makes about 2 cups
In a food processor or a high power blender (such as a VitaMix or BlendTec) whir 2 cups of unsweetened shredded coconut until it becomes a paste. It will look like a pale peanut butter.
While the coconut is whirring away, chop up a 3.5 ounce dark chocolate bar. Use one with 70% Cacao for the biggest health benefits. Toss the chopped chocolate into the food processor and keep whirring.
Pack the delicious paste in a jar and store in the fridge.
Variation: If you love chocolate-nut-butter blends or would like a spread with a bit more protein, add in anywhere from ¼ to 1 cup of your favorite nut or seed butter. A pinch of cinnamon or allspice or a dash of vanilla extract could also be nice.
