Not-So-Naughty But Nice: Healthy Dark Chocolate, Almond & Rose Fudge

‘Tis the season to treat yourself and others – so why not actually treat everyone by making and munching on things that you know are genuinely good for you?

This dark chocolate almond and rose fudge is made from completely natural ingredients, but is still completely luxurious enough to pretend you’re being naughty instead of nice…. (Yes, the Christmas puns will all start coming out now….)

The cocoa in this recipe gives a rich chocolately hit, and dates add natural sugars so there’s no need for processed ingredients. Almonds are high in protein and will keep you full for a long time when mixed with the infamous vitality-boosting coconut oil, while the rose petals add an interesting floral hint, and let’s face it; they look quite special….

Ingredients
(Makes 20 squares )

2 cups dates
1 1/2 tsp coconut oil
2 tsp honey
2-3 heaped tbsp dark cocoa powder or good quality hot chocolate powder, or raw cacao if you have it for extra nutrients.
1/2 cup chopped almonds
Optional 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (atleast 85%)
Top with dried rose petals for added fancy-ness

How To

The method for making these is very similar to the one used in the Ojas Boosting Bars recipe, which I’ll honestly say is partly inspired by ancient Ayurvedic and Yogic texts, and partly by Nigella Lawson….

Place the dates in a pan and cover with boiling water
Simmer on a low heat – stirring every so often – for 15-20 minutes, or until the dates become mushy and soft.
While the dates are softening, add all other ingredients, other than the coconut oil and honey, to a bowl and mix together
When the dates are ready, pour the dry ingredients into the pan
Add in your coconut oil and honey and stir everything together well
Line a baking tray with brown paper or non BPA cling film and squish the mixture firmly into the tray
Sprinkle over dried rose petals, gently pressing them into the mixture
Cover and leave to cool
When the mixture is cool, place in the fridge and leave over night to set completely
Cut into about 20 squares and eat, share & enjoy!

Emma Newlyn Yoga