Cuz sometimes you crave a sweet treat (Caution: ridiculously delicious healthy chocolatey treat recipe ahead)

I get it more than you can imagine. I’ve been there countless times. You’re rolling along, plugging away at your healthy goals, convicted to staying the course, determined not to fall off the wagon. But then…it happens. That dreaded sweet tooth rises up. Visions of sugary, chocolatey treats dance in your head. Resist the urge, you’ve got this! I have just the fix for you. And they’re homemade, so you know exactly what you’re eating (relax…just a few simple ingredients, no fancy techniques, and zero cooking involved).

I call these deceptively delicious little bites of yumminess my Fudgilicous “Brownie” Bites. They’re so gooey and chocolatey and sweet – they taste like raw brownie batter (yum!). I love to make these as samples for workshop attendees or community events or even potlucks, and here are some of my favorite comments from samplers:

• Mmmm…can I have another?
• I need that recipe!
• Honey, you have to try this (turning to stuff it in Honey’s mouth)!
• And my personal fave…Oh wow, they’re actually really delicious! (proof that you just can’t beat real food without all the junk)

Why are they so healthy? Well, it’s not only about what they lack – the star of the recipe (that also provides all the sweetness) is nature’s very own candy: dates. Do you have any idea how nutrient-dense those squishy, odd-looking little fruits are? Dates are packed with loads of nutrients and health benefits:

• Lower cholesterol
• Promote healthy weight with balance of natural sugars, proteins, and nutrients
• Protein rich
• Packed with B vitamins, A1 and C
• Loaded with selenium, manganese, copper, and magnesium for bone health 
• Rich in iron to help combat anemia, fatigue, and shortness of breath
• Promote digestion
• Improve skin health
• Strengthen the nervous system with loads of potassium and low sodium

Just keep in mind that even though they’re packed with all these nutrients, they’re still high in sugar. Yes, it’s natural sugar, but sugar nonetheless. So enjoy them in moderation, and you’re good! Without further ado, here’s the recipe. There are lots of variations you can try (different type of nuts such as pecans, adding some chia seeds or other crunchy add-ins), but here’s the simple version that’s amazing as is. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do! Feel free to your feedback in the comments below.

Coach Christine’s Recipe Corner: No-Bake, No-Junk Fudgilicious “Brownie” Bites

Ingredients:

1½ cup walnuts
pinch of sea salt
1 cup pitted dates (Medjool variety preferred for maximum moistness)
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
unsweetened finely shredded coconut (optional for rolling)

Directions:

1. Add walnuts and salt to food processor/chopper. Process until nuts are finely ground.
2. Add dates, vanilla and cocoa. Mix well until combined.
3. With processor running, add a couple drops of water at a time to help mixture stick.
4. Use a small spoon and fingers or cookie scoop to form uniform balls.
5. Roll in coconut if desired.
6. Try not to eat them all in one sitting. This is the hardest step of all!
7. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week (if they last that long!).

Note: Shop for organic ingredients when possible for optimal health benefits.