With Easter approaching it’s hard to escape the temptation of chocolate. During this time of year, all you see is pretty pastel-colored Easter sweets and treats, and chocolate is everywhere you look. We know the temptation is hard, but before you buy that delicious looking chocolate Easter bunny, make sure that it contains at least 70% cocoa. The reason for this? Well, believe it or not, there are health benefits of dark chocolate. In fact, dark chocolate is rich in zinc and magnesium, minerals that play a critical role in protecting your overall health and relieving stress. Not only do these minerals help boost your immune system and keep your body healthy, but they also can help preserve your hearing.
Don’t feel bad about indulging in some dark chocolatey treats this Easter, since it can protect your hearing. However, it is important to always aim for high-quality dark chocolate, and make sure you keep it in moderation. Remember, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing, so make sure you practice some restraint when it comes to those delicious Easter eggs. Luckily nowadays it is much easier to find dark chocolate that is on the healthier side at your local grocery store. Just make sure you read the label and stay away from ones that include unnecessary ingredients. You can also create your own indulgent, healthy version at home.
If you are looking for an alternative to store-bought chocolate, check out this healthy Easter egg recipe.
Raw Chocolate Easter Egg Recipe
Recipe Courtesy of Saskia Gregson-Williams at hipandhealthy.com
Makes 1 Large Easter Egg
Ingredients
For the chocolate:
• 1 avocado (for the mold)
• ½ cup of coconut oil (melted)
• 2 tbsp. of maple syrup
• ¼ cup of cacao powder
For the “icing”:
• 1-2 tbsp. of cacao powder
• 2 tbsp. of coconut oil (melted)
• ¼ cup of cashew nuts
• 3 medjool dates
Directions
1. Take the avocado and slice it in half, remove the pit and the flesh. You do not need the flesh for this recipe, just the skin, so just go ahead and eat it!
2. Make the raw chocolate by mixing the melted coconut oil, maple syrup and cacao powder together.
3. Pour the chocolate mixture into each half of the avocado skin. Place in your freezer for 10 minutes to harden.
4. While the chocolate is hardening, take all of the ingredients for the “icing” and blend until smooth in a food processor.
5. Pull out the hardened egg halves out of the freezer, and peel away the avocado skin.
6. Spread about two tablespoons of the “icing” onto one half evenly across, and then stick both halves together.
7. Use the remaining “icing” mixture to coat the sides with and stick back into the freezer until you are ready to eat!
