Got a sweet tooth for cherry ripe or chocolate?
It’s cherry season here in Oz.
A healthier alternative to the sugar filled cherry ripe bars you get from your local supermarket.
Very easy, tasty and sugar free, other than the natural sugars from the fruit and in the dark chocolate. But how can you go wrong, all natural ingredients and dark chocolate to boost the antioxidant intake.
I’ve tried a few ways and this is the closest I’ve got to taste without it being mushy. You can add more natural sweetener if you want an even sweeter taste.
Serves 16
Ingredients
- 2 cups desiccated coconut
- 4 tbl organic coconut oil, melted
- 3 tbl sugar free maple syrup (can use honey)
- 2 tsp organic vanilla extract
- 2 tbl rolled oats (paleo can omit)
- 1 cup fresh cherries, seeds removed (can use frozen)
- 1/2 cup raspberries (can use frozen)
- 1 tsp natural sweetener, Stevia powder, optional
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil Spray
- 1 block organic dark chocolate
Method
Remove seeds from fresh cherries.
Add all ingredients to a food processor and keep the coconut oil aside.
Now, melt the coconut oil and add to the dry mix in the food processor.
Process until mixture combines well and becomes sticky in texture.
Spray the base of a tray with olive oil or use baking paper. This will stop the cherry ripe slice from sticking.
Spread mixture into your tray, about 1 cm in height, or prefered height. Just remember the higher you go, the smaller you cut your pieces! Using a spoon, push down firm into tray.
Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set. If it starts to crack as you cut, refrigerate longer.
Once set, melt your dark chocolate until smooth and shiny.
Cut your cherry ripe slice into squares, making about 16.
Spray another tray with olive oil.
Carefully use your fingers or small tongs to roll the cherry ripe in the chocolate. Place on oiled tray to set.
You can be creative and make chocolate patterns, whatever takes your fancy, however sweet your taste is!
Allow bars to set. Store in fridge in airtight container.
ENJOY!