Indulge in Chocolate Harvest Bliss: Wholesome Raw Vegan Dessert for the Fall Season
As we transition into the cozy months of October and November, there's no better way to celebrate the harvest season than with a delightful and wholesome treat. My "Chocolate Harvest Bliss Bites" combine the rich flavors of cacao and buckwheat with a spiced apple, pear, and pecan filling to create a raw vegan dessert that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also nourishes your body. Let's explore the healthy side of this dessert, its nutritional benefits, and some fun facts about the ingredients.
The Healthier Side:
Raw and Vegan: This dessert is raw, preserving the natural goodness of the ingredients, and completely vegan, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.
Whole Ingredients: The recipe features whole foods, including buckwheat, fresh apples, pears, dates, and pecans, providing essential nutrients and dietary fiber.
No Refined Sugar: I've sweeten this dessert naturally with Medjool dates and a touch of agave nectar. Say goodbye to refined sugars and hello to a healthier sweet alternative.
Rich in Antioxidants: Raw cacao is packed with antioxidants that may help protect your cells and support heart health.
Fiber-Rich: Buckwheat, apples, and pears are high in dietary fiber, which can aid digestion and keep you feeling full longer.
Recipe Information:
Yields: Approximately 24 bite-sized servings (with some leftover filling).
Preparation Time: About 20-30 minutes, plus chilling time.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, for 24 servings):
Calories: ~105
Total Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Sodium: 8mg
Total Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 1g
Fun Facts:
Apples & Pears: Apples and pears are abundant during the fall months. They are not only delicious but also provide essential vitamins and fiber. They are often associated with autumn traditions like apple and pear picking.
Buckwheat: Despite its name, buckwheat is not related to wheat and is gluten-free. It's a good source of protein and various nutrients, making it a great choice for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Pecans: Pecans are a good source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. They're often used in traditional fall recipes, including pecan pies.
Cacao: Cacao is known as the "food of the gods" and was used by the ancient Mayans and Aztecs in rituals. It's not just delicious but also a rich source of flavonoids with potential health benefits.
Chocolate Harvest Bliss Bites Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Buckwheat Base:
1 cup soaked and dehydrated buckwheat groats
1/4 cup raw cacao powder
1/4 cup Medjool dates (pitted)
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Topping:
1/4 cup raw cacao powder
1/4 cup coconut oil
2-3 tablespoons agave nectar (adjust to taste)
A pinch of salt
For the Apple and Pear Filling:
1 medium apple (peeled, cored, and chopped)
1 medium pear (peeled, cored, and chopped)
1/2 cup Medjool dates (pitted and chopped)
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
For the Cookie Base:
In a food processor, combine soaked and dehydrated buckwheat, raw cacao powder, pitted Medjool dates, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Process until it forms a sticky dough.
Line a small square or rectangular pan with parchment paper and press the buckwheat mixture evenly into the bottom to create the cookie base. You can also opt to use a candy or brownie mold (as shown in the photos).
Place the pan in the refrigerator and allow the cookie base to chill for at least 30 minutes.
For the Apple and Pear Filling:
Peel, core, and chop the apple and pear into small pieces. Toss them in lemon juice to prevent browning.
In a food processor, combine the chopped apples and pears, pitted and chopped Medjool dates, chopped pecans, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg. Process until a chunky, sticky filling forms.
Once the cookie base has chilled, spread a layer of the apple and pear filling on top of it.
Return the pan to the refrigerator and allow the filling to chill for at least 30 minutes.
For the Chocolate Coating:
In a separate bowl, mix raw cacao powder, coconut oil, agave nectar, and a pinch of salt for the chocolate coating. Adjust sweetness to your liking.
Remove the pan from the refrigerator and cut the dessert into bite-sized squares or bars. If using a mold, pop out the bites, and continue to follow the instructions.
Dip each square or bar into the chocolate coating, ensuring the tops and sides are coated evenly.
Place the coated bites on a parchment paper-lined tray and let them set in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes.
Once set, your Chocolate Harvest Bliss Bites are ready to enjoy!
Storage Recommendations:
Store your Chocolate Harvest Bliss Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. To prevent sticking, place parchment paper or wax paper between the layers of bites when storing in the freezer.
Enjoy the delightful flavors of this Chocolate Harvest Bliss Bites recipe, and remember to adapt it to your specific dietary needs and preferences. Indulge in the deliciousness and celebrate the flavors of the season!
Disclaimer: This Chocolate Harvest Bliss Bites recipe is designed to provide a delicious and wholesome dessert option. Please note that individual dietary needs may vary. Always be mindful of any food allergies or sensitivities when preparing and consuming these treats. Additionally, while we've made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the nutrition facts provided, they are approximate values and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
