I LOVE this. Had to adapt a recipe I found online that didn’t quite work (everything squashed when you bit into the chocolate layer because it was too thick). Every one of my tasters had to have second helpings. Let me know if you enjoy it.
Shortbread base:
200g ground almonds
50ml agave or maple syrup (for specific carbohydrate diet use runny honey)
60g virgin coconut oil
Caramel layer:
300g pitted dates (medjool work best) or date paste (from Middle Eastern shops)
150g tahini (my favourite for this recipe) or almond butter (any non-sugar nut butter will do)
1 tbs vanilla extract (PS. vanilla “essence” contains gluten so if you’re sensitive…)
1 level tbs virgin coconut oil
6 tbs water
Chocolate top layer:
150g dark chocolate (minimum 80% cocoa) (for specific carb diet you need 99%)
1.Blend almond flour in food processor till fine.
2.Add the honey or syrup
3.Line a baking tin with parchment or silicon paper (I use a square 8″/20cm brownie tin) and spread the shortbread mix in, patting it down so it’s firm and will hold its shape when cut
4.Leave in freezer to set base while you make caramel layer
5.In a food processor blend together caramel ingredients until super smooth 3-8 mins.
6.Spread mixture on top of the shortbread in a smooth layer
7.Melt the chocolate and spread over the caramel layer.
8.Put in freezer to set and chocolate to harden for 15 minutes
9.Cut into approximately 2.5cm squares. Cutting tip: Dip blade of knife in jug/saucepan of boiling water, dry blade, then cut squares easily without cracking the chocolate. Repeat.
Why this is better for you:
Did you know that (like spices and herbs) cocoa contains masses of polyphenols. Polyphenols are plant antioxidants that strengthen your body, lower inflammation and slow down biological ageing. Raw almonds are one of Natures richest sources of vitamin E. Vitamin E is needed to help vitamin C work. For energy, liver detox, skin, mood, immunity and a healthy heart (I could go on…). Natural syrups, well, they’re not helpful but at least they don’t rob you of vitamins and minerals like sugar/chemical sweeteners do. Raw nuts and seeds are always healthier than cooked because they contain raw omega 6 fats which we need in small amounts for tissue rebuilding. PS. Coconut oil is anti-fungal, helping keep your gut healthy.
