Deliciously healthy treats

There’s no denying that sometimes, we crave something a little sweet, so it’s handy to have a few tasty treats that you can make yourself in a short amount of time and store in your fridge or freezer.  Below are some of my go-to recipes that will satisfy that sweet craving and provide some beneficial nutrients for you as they are high in antioxidants and healthy fats.

Foods high in antioxidants such as goji berries, blueberries, dark chocolate and pecans, provide numerous benefits across most of our body systems. This includes improved digestive function, immune system support, nervous system function, plus healthy liver and kidney function, and also relieve stress, fatigue and improve sleep quality – and more.

These recipes are all easy to make, are family friendly and can also make a great dessert option if entertaining…just remember to keep an eye on portion size.  All of the prepared treats will store in the fridge in air-tight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.

RECIPE – GOJI BERRIES + COCONUT CHOCOLATE BARK

Serves 6 | Preparation time 15mins | Freezing time 30mins

Ingredients:

  • Dark chocolate, high-quality, min 70% cocoa, 100g
  • Sea salt, pinch
  • Goji berries, 40g (or use dried blueberries, roughly chopped)
  • Coconut flakes, 2 tablespoons (or use shredded coconut)

Method

  • Line a small tray with baking paper and set in the fridge.
  • Break the dark chocolate into small pieces. Melt chocolate in a double boiler or heatproof bowl set over a small saucepan with a few cms of boiling water.
  • Once melted, remove from heat and pour onto tray, allow to cool for 2mins.
  • Sprinkle with berries and coconut.
  • Place the bark in freezer for 30mins, before breaking up into individual pieces.

RECIPE – CHOCOLATE COATED DATES

Makes 6 | Preparation time 15mins | Fridge time 2 hours

Ingredients:

  • Dark chocolate, high-quality, min 70% cocoa, 100g
  • Medjool dates, 6 pitted

Method

  • Line a small tray with baking paper.
  • Break the dark chocolate into small pieces. Melt chocolate in a double boiler or heatproof bowl set over a small saucepan with a few cms of boiling water.
  • Once melted, using a spoon carefully roll each date in the chocolate and place on tray.
  • Place the dates in the fridge for 2 hours to set.

RECIPE – CHOCOLATE NUT DELIGHT

Serves 4 | Preparation time 15mins | Fridge time 2 hours

Ingredients:

  • Dark chocolate, high-quality, min 70% cocoa, 100g
  • Mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans, hazelnuts, brazil nuts), non-salted, roughly chopped, ½ cup

Method

  • Line a small tray with baking paper.
  • Break the dark chocolate into small pieces. Melt chocolate in a double boiler or heatproof bowl set over a small saucepan with a few cms of boiling water.
  • Once melted, add the mixed nuts and stir until all coated. Pour onto tray in an even layer.
  • Place the tray in the fridge for 2 hours to set.