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Zucchini Bread Pancakes for One

Are you craving a warm, comforting breakfast that’s also healthy and easy to make? Look no further than these delightful Zucchini Bread Pancakes for One. Packed with the goodness of zucchini and the cozy flavors of zucchini bread, this single-serving recipe is perfect for a leisurely morning treat. Let’s dive right into making these delectable pancakes!

NameZucchini Bread Pancakes for One
CuisineFusion
Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings1 serving
Yield3-4 pancakes

The conundrum of what to do with excess zucchini that plagues those who grow the summer vegetable usually presents itself right about now.

Zucchini Bread Pancakes for One

Had enough grilled squash, but not enthused about the idea of turning on the oven to bake a loaf of zucchini bread?

Zucchini Bread Pancakes for One

Here’s your answer.

Zucchini Bread Pancakes!

For one. That’s how I roll.

Zucchini Bread Pancakes for One

I don’t know about you, but I like my zucchini bread stuffed with chocolate chips and walnuts; if those add-ins don’t float your boat, no problem-o. You might just want to double up on the maple syrup ;).

Zucchini Bread Pancakes for One

As is true with the bread that served as the inspiration for these pancakes, there is no zucchini flavor… but the flecks of green are aesthetically pleasing, and it’s nice to get a dose of veggies with breakfast.

Zucchini Bread Pancakes for One

Think of it like this: the zucchini cancels out the chocolate chips!

Zucchini Bread Pancakes for One

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp evaporated cane juice OR granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • tiny pinch of ground nutmeg
  • tiny pinch of salt
  • 1 egg white
  • 1/2 cup low fat buttermilk, well-shaken
  • 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup shredded zucchini, wrapped in a kitchen towel and wrung out to remove excess moisture
  • 1 Tbsp chopped toasted walnuts, optional
  • 1 Tbsp chocolate chips, optional (I used Sunspire grain-sweetened chocolate chips)
  • canola oil cooking spray
  • pure maple syrup, preferably grade B

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

Calories: 250-300 kcal

Carbohydrates: 55 grams

Protein: 6 grams

Fat: 2 grams

Fiber: 5 grams

Sugar: 18 grams

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini

Start by washing and grating the zucchini using a box grater. Once grated, squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Set the zucchini aside.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour (if using), baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Mix well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly incorporated.

3. Create the Pancake Batter

In another bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), unsweetened applesauce, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Add the grated zucchini to this wet mixture and stir until combined.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the wet zucchini mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine.

5. Heat the Pan

Place a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.

6. Cook the Pancakes

Pour a ladleful of the pancake batter onto the heated skillet to form a round pancake. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the edges turn golden brown, and the pancake is cooked through.

Zucchini Bread Granola

Are you looking for a tasty and wholesome breakfast or snack option that’s both satisfying and nutritious? Look no further than this Zucchini Bread Granola recipe.

Packed with the goodness of zucchini, whole grains, and natural sweeteners, this homemade granola is a delightful treat that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Name:Zucchini Bread Granola
Cuisine:Fusion
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cooking Time:25 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Servings:10 servings
Yield:5 cups

If you can deal with shreds of zucchini in your breakfast…

… you just might like this granola as much as I do.

Zucchini Bread Granola

With chewy clumps of oats, sweet nuggets of chocolate, ribbons of zucchini, crunchy walnuts, and warm tones of cinnamon and nutmeg, this granola has all the flavor of a traditional zucchini quick bread.

Zucchini Bread Granola

You guys know from my Zucchini Bread Pancakes that I like chocolate chips and walnuts in my zucchini bread, so I brought both ingredients into play with this granola.

Zucchini Bread Granola

I typically use unsweetened applesauce in place of butter or oil when making granola, so I easily swapped in some finely grated zucchini – which, I promise, you can’t taste at all!

Zucchini Bread Granola

It’s key to use a fine grater (such a microplane) for this recipe, because you want the texture of the zucchini to fall between shreds and puree. If you only have a box grater, opt for the side with the small holes rather than the side you would typically use for shredding zucchini or cheese.

Zucchini Bread Granola

Yes, you can see the pieces of green squash in the final product – but after all, if you couldn’t it would just be chocolate and walnut granola.

Which would be delicious as well… but why not sneak in some veggies?!

Zucchini Bread Granola

I tossed the chocolate chips (grain-sweetened to keep the sugar content low) in with the still-warm granola so that the heat would partially melt them. The melted chocolate basically acts like glue, forming glorious chewy granola clumps.

Zucchini Bread Granola

If you were brave enough to try my zucchini pancakes, I think you’re up for this challenge! I just might succeed in my mission to turn you into a zucchini-for-breakfast fan ;).

Zucchini Bread Granola

Ingredients

  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup grated zucchini (about one medium zucchini)
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil (or any other vegetable oil)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

Calories: 230 calories

Total Fat: 14g

Saturated Fat: 6g

Trans Fat: 0g

Cholesterol: 0mg

Sodium: 120mg

Total Carbohydrates: 24g

Dietary Fiber: 3g

Sugars: 10g

Protein: 4g

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil and honey (or maple syrup) together until they are easily mixable. Stir well to combine.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, grated zucchini, chopped nuts, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mix them thoroughly.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the melted coconut oil and honey mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well coated. The mixture should be sticky and moist.

Spread the Mixture

Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Press it down gently with a spatula to create an even layer.

Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the granola turns golden brown. Make sure to stir the granola every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Add the Final Touch

Once the granola is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, stir in the dried fruits and shredded coconut (if using).

Cool Completely

Allow the granola to cool completely on the baking sheet. It will become crunchier as it cools.

A New Project

How’s everyone doing?

I have some news to share.

About a month ago Kristin from Living Graciously asked if I’d be interested in contributing to the kitchen/cooking component of her lovely blog, and I jumped at the chance!

The collaborative effort also includes Carmel, who blogs about house renovations and decorating over at Our Fifth House, and Ashley, who writes about lifestyle and fashion at The Shine Project.

I’ve added a button down on the right sidebar that will take you to Living Graciously, where you will be able to find my bi-monthly posts at The Kitchen. I will be including recipes (some from Healthy Food For Living, some new) as well as discussing kitchen gadgets, cooking techniques, and other food-related topics.

The kick-off for the new team effort will be on Monday, the introduction of the contributing bloggers will be on Tuesday, and Kristin will be hosting a week-long giveaway – so head on over to check it out!

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Avocado & Goat Cheese Cream

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If you’re looking for a scrumptious and healthy side dish or appetizer that’s bursting with flavor and texture, look no further than these Baked Sweet Potatoes with Avocado & Goat Cheese Cream. This dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the creamy richness of avocado and goat cheese. It’s not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nutritious choice for any occasion.

Included in this dish are three of my five favorite foods, rendering this recipe perfect for posting on my birthday (the big 2-8)!

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Avocado & Goat Cheese Cream

Toss in some chocolate and peanut butter, and I’d be set for life.

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Avocado & Goat Cheese Cream

These are so simple!

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Avocado & Goat Cheese Cream

Step 1: bake sweet potatoes until tender.

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Avocado & Goat Cheese Cream

Step 2: blend/process together avocado and goat cheese.

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Avocado & Goat Cheese Cream

Step 3: pile the luscious pale green crema on top of the vibrantly hued orange sweet potatoes.

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Avocado & Goat Cheese Cream

Step 4: devour.

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Avocado & Goat Cheese Cream

Do I even have to spell out how perfect these flavors are together? Not to mention the play of cool and creamy against warm and velvety.

Sweet + rich + tangy + creamy + warm + cool = ♥. Pure and simple.

I’m considering it a birthday gift to myself ;).

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Avocado & Goat Cheese Cream
NameBaked Sweet Potatoes with Avocado & Goat Cheese Cream
CuisineAmerican
Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes
  • olive oil cooking spray
  • Kosher salt
  • freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 ripe large avocado
  • 2 oz goat cheese, at room temperature
  • 1 Tbsp freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice
  • water to thin crema, as needed

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Scrub and dry sweet potatoes. Pierce potatoes a few times with a knife or fork. Lightly coat with olive oil cooking spray and season to taste with salt and pepper. Place seasoned potatoes onto a foil-lined baking sheet and bake until soft, about 45-60 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, combine avocado, goat cheese, and citrus juice in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until smooth and creamy, streaming in water (1 tablespoon at a time) until desired consistency is reached (I used just 1 tbsp). Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  4. When the potatoes are done, slice them lengthwise and top with avocado & goat cheese crema.

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

  • Calories: 305 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
    • Saturated Fat: 6g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 13mg
  • Sodium: 667mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 28g
    • Dietary Fiber: 8g
    • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Vitamin D: 0%
  • Calcium: 81mg
  • Iron: 2mg
  • Potassium: 849mg

Please note that these nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the size of sweet potatoes, the amount of olive oil used, and the specific brands of ingredients. It’s always a good idea to consult a nutritionist or use a trusted nutrition calculator for precise dietary information, especially if you have specific dietary requirements or restrictions.

Best Holiday Ever?

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The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and of course, delicious food. When it comes to creating the perfect holiday meal, nothing beats a beautifully roasted turkey.

Best Holiday Ever?

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to create a mouthwatering, juicy, and flavorful roast turkey that will make your holiday gathering truly unforgettable.

Best Holiday Ever?
Name:Best Holiday Ever Roast Turkey
CuisineAmerican
Prep Time30 minutes
Cooking Time3.5 – 4 hours
Total Time4.5 hours
Servings12-15 people
Yield1 whole turkey

Ingredients

  • 1 whole turkey (approximately 12-15 pounds)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, cut in half
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 4-5 sprigs of fresh rosemary and thyme
  • 2 cups chicken or turkey broth

Instructions

  1. Preparation

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Remove the turkey from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.

In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried sage, salt, and pepper. This will be your flavorful herb butter.

  1. Season the Turkey

Gently lift the skin of the turkey and rub the herb butter mixture underneath the skin, covering as much of the meat as possible. This will help keep the turkey moist and infuse it with flavor.

  1. Stuff the Turkey

Stuff the cavity of the turkey with lemon halves, onion quarters, and fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs. This aromatic stuffing will add a delightful fragrance to your roast.

  1. Truss the Turkey

Truss the turkey by tying its legs together with kitchen twine. This helps the turkey cook evenly and maintain its shape.

  1. Roasting

Place the turkey on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan.

Pour the chicken or turkey broth into the bottom of the pan. This will keep the turkey moist and create a flavorful base for gravy.

Cover the turkey with aluminum foil, leaving a little space at the top to allow steam to escape.

  1. Roast

Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 3.5 to 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

  1. Basting

Every 30 minutes, baste the turkey with the pan juices. This adds more flavor and helps the skin become beautifully golden and crisp.

  1. Resting

Once the turkey reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender turkey.

  1. Carving

Carve your turkey and serve it with your favorite holiday sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and gravy made from the pan drippings.

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving (1/12 of the turkey):

  • Calories: 500
  • Total Fat: 22g
    • Saturated Fat: 8g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 250mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 2g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0g
    • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 70g

Peanut Butter & Honey Banana Blondies

These blondies are a dessert version of my favorite childhood sandwich.

Peanut Butter & Honey Banana Blondies

I haven’t had a peanut butter, honey, and sliced banana sandwich in quite some time… and I don’t have any good reason why!

Do you ever re-discover old favorites?

Peanut Butter & Honey Banana Blondies

I was reminded of how much I loved the flavor combination when I first tasted Honey Nut Banana Better Butter, and was inspired to make these blondies.

Peanut Butter & Honey Banana Blondies

There is a triple threat of peanut flavor in these bad boys:

Seriously, how could these be anything other than absolutely delicious?!

Peanut Butter & Honey Banana Blondies

The light & cakey blondies are moist, tender, and bursting with peanut and banana flavor. I especially love the pockets of peanut butter that sunk down into the batter while baking. The peanut butter chip morsels are also pretty darn fantastic; as are the stray bits of sweet and marshmallow-y banana that didn’t quite get mashed all the way.

Actually, everything about these blondies is fabulous!

If you’re a peanut butter & banana junkie like me, then you really must make these.

Peanut Butter & Honey Banana Blondies

Peanut Butter & Honey Banana Blondies

Printer-Friendly Recipe

Name:Peanut Butter & Honey Banana Blondies
Cuisine:Fusion
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cooking Time:25 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Servings:12 squares
Yield:12 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 2 Tbsp canola oil
  • 2 Tbsp Sucanat or lightly packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 cup mashed overripe banana (about 3 medium bananas with almost-black peels)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour
  • 1/2 cup peanut flour (if you cannot find this, simply sub in an additional 1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup all-natural peanut butter chips (I used Sunspire)
  • 1/4 cup all-natural peanut butter (I used Honey Nut Banana Better Butter)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mash the Bananas

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they are smooth. Bananas that have brown spots on the peel are ideal as they are sweeter and add a nice depth of flavor.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

To the mashed bananas, add the creamy peanut butter, honey, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

4. Sift Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Sifting helps remove lumps and ensures even distribution of dry ingredients.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the banana and peanut butter mixture. Stir until the flour is fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; just mix until there are no visible streaks of flour.

6. Transfer to Baking Pan

Pour the blondie batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top for even baking.

7. Bake

Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remember that blondies will continue to cook a bit after removing them from the oven, so it’s better to slightly underbake them for a soft and chewy texture.

8. Cool and Slice

Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes, then use a sharp knife to slice them into squares or bars.

9. Enjoy

Serve your Peanut Butter & Honey Banana Blondies as a sweet and nutty treat, a snack, or even as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Lightly coat an 8 x 8 inch square pan with canola oil cooking spray. Line the pan with parchment paper so that the ends hang over the edges of the pan. Lightly coat the parchment with cooking spray.
  3. In a large bowl, beat together the applesauce through mashed banana with an electric mixer until well combined. Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together both types of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Add dry ingredients to the wet, and stir with a rubber spatula or spoon just until moistened. Fold in peanut butter chips.
  6. Pour batter into prepared pan. Drop peanut butter by the teaspoonful on top of the batter, leaving room between each spoonful. You can either leave as is, or drag a butter knife through the peanut butter and batter to create a marbled effect. (The peanut butter I used requires refrigeration, so it was rather difficult to swirl it into the batter given its firmer consistency).
  7. Bake blondies until a toothpick inserted into the center of the pan comes out clean, about 25-28 minutes.
  8. Allow blondies to cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then remove by picking up the ends of the parchment paper.
  9. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into bars.

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

  • Calories: 180g
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 23mg
  • Sodium: 145mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 9g
  • Protein: 4g

Please note that the nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used and portion sizes.

It’s always a good idea to consult with a registered dietitian or use a nutrition calculator for precise nutritional information, especially if you have dietary restrictions or specific health concerns. Enjoy your Peanut Butter & Honey Banana Blondies responsibly!

4 Ingredient Pumpkin Pancakes for Baby

These “pancakes” are flour- & sugar-free, consisting solely of bananas, pumpkin puree, eggs, & baking powder. I’ve seen a few recipes for this kind of pancake circulating around the blogosphere, and decided to try out a pumpkin version for Lily.

The verdict? She loved them and polished off this entire stack.

I tasted them myself, and want to toss out a disclaimer that they – of course – don’t taste like regular ol’ pancakes, (because there is no flour), but they are tasty! Their spongy texture makes them easy for baby to eat, and their natural sweetness means no maple syrup is needed.

This may very well be Lily’s Thanksgiving day breakfast!

Name:4 Ingredient Pumpkin Pancakes for Baby
Cuisine:Fusion
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cooking Time:10 minutes
Total Time:15 minutes
Servings:6 small pancakes
Yield:2 servings

Ingredients

  • butter or vegetable oil for cooking
  • 1/4 cup very well-mashed ripe banana (about 1/2 large banana)
  • 1/4 cup pure pumpkin puree
  • 2 large eggs, preferably organic
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

Calories: 70 kcal

Carbohydrates: 12g

Protein: 3g

Fat: 1g

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 2g

Vitamin A: 60% of Daily Value (DV)

Iron: 6% DV

Calcium: 2% DV

Potassium: 90mg

Instructions

Prepare the Pumpkin Puree

Start by ensuring your canned pumpkin puree contains only 100% pumpkin, with no added sugars or spices. This guarantees that your baby gets the pure, natural goodness of pumpkin.

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, oat flour, egg (or mashed banana if using a banana instead of an egg), and a pinch of cinnamon if desired. Mix the ingredients until they form a smooth batter. The consistency should be thick but pourable.

Cooking

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. You can lightly grease the surface with a small amount of cooking oil or cooking spray, but it’s not necessary thanks to the non-stick surface.

Once the skillet is hot, pour a small amount of the pancake batter onto the surface to form small, baby-sized pancakes. Use a spoon to gently spread the batter into a round shape.

Cook the pancakes for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Cool and Serve

Allow the pancakes to cool for a few minutes before serving. They should be at a safe temperature for your baby to handle.

For added nutrition, you can serve these pancakes with a dollop of plain yogurt, a drizzle of pure maple syrup (for babies older than one year), or a fruit puree.

Wordless Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup S’mores

If you’re a fan of the delightful combination of chocolate and peanut butter, you’re in for a treat! Homemade chocolate peanut butter cups are a classic confectionery delight that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

We’ll guide you through a simple yet scrumptious recipe that will have your taste buds dancing. These homemade treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing your friends and family. Let’s get started!

Name:Irresistible Homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Cuisine:Fusion
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cooking Time:2 minutes (melting chocolate)
Total Time:47 minutes (including chilling time)
Servings:12 peanut butter cups
Yield:12 peanut butter cups

Please note that the total time includes the time needed for chilling the peanut butter cups in the refrigerator.

The number of servings and yield can vary slightly depending on how much filling and chocolate you use for each cup.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt
  • 2 cups high-quality semisweet or dark chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Muffin Tin

Begin by lining a standard muffin tin with paper or silicone cupcake liners. This will make it easier to remove the peanut butter cups once they’re set.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This will be your delicious peanut butter filling.

Step 3: Create the Peanut Butter Layers

Spoon a small amount of the peanut butter mixture into each of the cupcake liners, filling them about one-third of the way. Use the back of the spoon to flatten and smooth the peanut butter layer.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet or dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 20-30 second increments, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

Step 5: Add the Chocolate Layer

Spoon the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer in each cup, covering it completely. Tap the muffin tin gently on the counter to even out the chocolate.

Step 6: Set and Chill

Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator and allow the chocolate peanut butter cups to chill for at least 30 minutes, or until they are firm.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Once the cups have hardened, remove them from the muffin tin and peel away the paper or silicone liners. Your homemade chocolate peanut butter cups are now ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tip: Get creative with your peanut butter cups by adding chopped nuts, sea salt, or even a drizzle of caramel for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Enjoy your homemade chocolate peanut butter cups, and happy indulging!

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

  • Calories: 220 calories
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 11g
  • Protein: 6g

Please note that these nutrition estimates are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used.

The values provided are based on a typical serving size for one peanut butter cup.

Wordless Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup S’mores
Wordless Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup S’mores
Wordless Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup S’mores
Wordless Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup S’mores
Wordless Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup S’mores
Wordless Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup S’mores

Mocha Peanut Butter Recipe

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If that’s not a recipe for the ultimate healthy-but-delicious breakfast (or dessert!) condiment, I don’t know what is.

Mocha Peanut Butter

Spread this luscious espresso-laced chocolate peanut butter on a warm muffin, stir it into hot stovetop oatmeal, drizzle it over creamy Greek yogurt, blend it into a smoothie, or eat it right off the spoon!

Mocha Peanut Butter
NameMocha Peanut Butter
CuisineFusion
Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Time10 minutes (roasting)
Total Time20 minutes
ServingsMakes about 1 cup
Yield1 cup
Mocha Peanut Butter

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cup dry roasted, unsalted peanuts, preferably organic
  • 1/4 cup + 1 Tbsp semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/8 -1/2 tsp canola oil (omit entirely for a thicker, less drizzle-able consistency)
  • 1 Tbsp + 1 tsp cocoa powder
  • tiny pinch of Kosher salt
  • 1 Tbsp instant espresso powder
  • 2 tsp evaporated cane juice OR granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Place peanuts into the bowl of a food processor. Process until peanuts break down into a paste, scraping down the sides as necessary, about 3-5 minutes.

Meanwhile, place the chocolate chips over a double boiler (set a heat-proof bowl over a pot with 1 inch of simmering water), and stir until fully melted. Set aside to cool slightly.

If you’re looking for a drippy consistency, start with adding just 1/8 tsp canola oil: with the motor of the food processor running, stream in the oil and process until a smooth butter forms. Add an additional 1/8-1/4 tsp if desired.

Spoon in the melted chocolate, and process until combined.

Add in the cocoa powder, salt, espresso powder, evaporated cane juice, and vanilla extract, and puree until well-combined.

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

  • Calories: 120 calories
  • Total Fat: 10 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 grams
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams
  • Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
  • Sodium: 50 milligrams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 6 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 2 grams
  • Sugars: 2 grams
  • Protein: 4 grams

Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe

When it comes to chocolate desserts, few can resist the allure of a perfectly baked Flourless Chocolate Cake. Its rich, dense, and velvety texture makes it a favorite among chocolate enthusiasts.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is simple to follow and sure to impress. Get ready to embark on a journey to chocolate heaven!

Rich.

Fudgy.

Dense.

Sweet.

Chocolaty.

Decadent.

Valentine’s Day-worthy.

Healthy?

Flourless Chocolate Cake

In this case: absolutely!

You can have it all with this healthified flourless chocolate cake.

Flourless Chocolate Cake

A very close friend of my mother-in-law (for all intents and purposes, John’s “aunt”) made a ridiculously delectable flourless chocolate cake when our families convened for Christmas, and I was picking at the leftovers for days afterward.

I became rather obsessed with making a healthy version, finally got around to experimenting in the kitchen, and thought that Valentine’s Day would be the ideal occasion to share with you the recipe I came up with.

Flourless Chocolate Cake

I used a recipe from Whole Foods as my inspiration. Now just because a recipe hails from this health food mecca does not mean that it will necessary be light. Check out the link above for the nutritional information of the original cake, and you’ll see precisely what I mean.

Instead of a full cup (2 sticks!) of butter, I used avocado and banana puree; in place of 1 1/4 cups of sugar, I used 1/2 cup + some liquid Stevia extract.

[I have been occasionally using Stevia for a couple of years now, and for some reason have put off incorporating it into recipes for the blog. Are you interested in seeing more recipes using this all-natural zero-calorie sweetener?].

The rich avocado puree ensures that the cake comes out dense and fudgy; the banana puree adds moisture and natural sweetness without fat.

These healthy substitutions allowed me to cut out more than half of the sugar, half of the calories, 2/3 of the total fat AND 2/3 of the saturated fat from the original recipe.

Flourless Chocolate Cake

A bite of this indulgent cake is akin to sinking your teeth into a chocolate truffle. Or a spoonful of chocolate ganache. Yet, unlike its traditional counterpart, a generous slice of this cake won’t make you curl up in the fetal position with a stomachache. Rich enough to satisfy even the most intense chocolate cravings, but light enough to leave you feeling fantastic after eating it, this flourless chocolate cake is my new favorite dessert!

Flourless Chocolate Cake

Flourless Chocolate Cake

by Lauren Zembron (adapted from Whole Foods)

Name:Flourless Chocolate Cake
Cuisine:Fusion
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cooking Time:40 minutes
Total Time:1 hour
Servings:12 servings
Yield:1 9-inch cake

Keywords: bake dessert avocado banana chocolate eggs cake

Ingredients (12 servings)

  • 8 ounces good-quality 60% cacao bittersweet chocolate, roughly chopped (I used Ghiradelli)
  • 1/2 cup well pureed ripe avocado flesh (from about 1 avocado)
  • 3/4 cup very ripe banana puree (from about 2 bananas) SEE NOTE
  • 1/2 cup unrefined cane sugar
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 Tbsp espresso powder
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla liquid Stevia extract (or to taste)
  • 6 eggs, preferably organic
  • powdered sugar, optional

NOTE: There will be a very slight banana flavor to the freshly baked cake, which will disappear after 24 hours of chilling in the fridge. If you’re in a rush and simply must serve the cake the same day you make it, try subbing in an additional 1/2 cup of pureed avocado flesh (thereby using 2 whole avocados) for the banana puree. You will probably want to add additional sugar and/or Stevia if you make this substitution to make up for the sweetness of the banana. The additional avocado & sugar will obviously change the nutritional information.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly butter or oil a 9-inch spring-form pan. Cut out a circle of parchment paper to fit the pan and place it in the bottom. Lightly oil or butter the parchment paper circle.

Place a small saucepan with one inch of water over medium-high heat. Once the water has come to a boil, Top the saucepan with a heatproof bowl and add in the chopped chocolate; stir until fully melted.

In the bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel blade, combine the pureed avocado flesh, pureed banana, melted chocolate, sugar, and vanilla. Puree until completely smooth, scraping down sides of the food processor bowl as needed. Add in the cocoa and espresso powder; puree until incorporated. Add in the stevia extract. Taste and add more stevia extract if desired. Add in one egg at a time and puree after each addition until perfectly smooth.

Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cake has risen and is just firm in the center. Let cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 24 hours (cake will deflate as it cools). Remove the sides of the spring-form pan before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

  • Calories: 350 calories
  • Total Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg
  • Sodium: 125mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 22g
  • Protein: 5g

Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on specific brands of ingredients used and portion sizes.

The nutrition information is for the cake only and does not include any additional toppings or accompaniments like whipped cream or ice cream.