Spicy Apple Caramel Bites: A Raw, Plant-Based Apple Celebration
Hey there, fellow apple enthusiasts! This week, I'm all about apples, and I've got a fantastic way to celebrate this incredible fruit. Introducing my Spicy Apple Caramel Bites!
These little bites taste like a blend of apple pie and caramel – perfect for snacking during chilly weather. The best part? They're made from plant-based and raw ingredients, so they're both delicious and healthy.
But before I share this awesome recipe, here's a quick heads-up: While I've included estimated nutrition facts, keep in mind that the numbers can vary based on ingredient brands and how much you scoop onto your plate. For personalized dietary advice, it's always a good idea to chat with a healthcare pro.
Now, let's dive into these Spicy Apple Caramel Bites, explore their nutrition facts, chat about why the ingredients are good for you, and check out some serving ideas and storage tips.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, estimated):
Calories: 150
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 50mg
Total Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 3g
Vitamin D: 0%
Calcium: 4%
Iron: 4%
Potassium: 160mg
Healthy Ingredient Benefits:
Almonds: Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein. They provide vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants, which are good for heart health.
Pecans: High in healthy fats and fiber, they offer essential nutrients like manganese, zinc, and vitamin E.
Dried Apples: A source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, dried apples can aid digestion and boost the immune system.
Dates: Natural sweeteners rich in fiber, potassium, and various vitamins and minerals.
Serving Suggestions:
These Spicy Apple Caramel Bites make for a delightful and healthy snack or dessert. You can enjoy them in various ways:
As an afternoon pick-me-up with a cup of hot herbed tea, just as the original recipe suggests.
On a cheese and fruit platter for a unique sweet element.
As a topping for yogurt or oatmeal to add a crunchy and flavorful twist to your breakfast.
As a post-workout snack to replenish energy.
Storage: To keep your Spicy Apple Caramel Bites fresh and tasty:
Store them in an airtight container to prevent moisture and air from affecting their texture.
While you can store them in the cupboard, it's best to refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. This helps maintain their consistency and prevents them from becoming too soft or sticky.
If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Recipe: Spicy Apple Caramel Bites:
Ingredients:
1 cup almonds
½ cup pecans
½ tsp cardamom
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg
1 tsp ginger
1 ½ cups dried apple (Granny Smith variety)
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp vanilla extract
16 dates
Preparation:
In a food processor, grind the almonds and pecans until they reach a fine, almost powdery consistency.
Add the cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, dried apples, sea salt, vanilla extract, and dates (added last) to the food processor. Blend until the mixture becomes sticky and dough-like.
Transfer the mixture from the food processor to a large mixing bowl.
Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, portion the dough into your hands and roll it into small balls. You can even cut the dough balls in half and roll them into smaller, bite-sized balls if you prefer.
Place the finished Spicy Apple Caramel Bites into an airtight container.
For optimal freshness and texture, refrigerate the bites for up to 2 weeks. Alternatively, you can freeze them for longer storage by wrapping them tightly before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Enjoy these wholesome and flavorful treats as a satisfying snack or dessert, perfect for the cooler months!
Whether I'm enjoying them as an afternoon snack, tossing them onto my breakfast, or pairing them with a steaming cup of herbal tea, these Spicy Apple Caramel Bites are sure to hit the spot and keep me feeling good. So, let's celebrate apples together – the plant-based, raw, and tasty way!
Disclaimer: Remember that the nutrition facts I've provided are estimates. The actual values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and how much of these bites you gobble up. For tailored dietary guidance, consider having a chat with a healthcare professional.
