Cacao and Macadamia Nut Squares

A quick and easy vegan, raw combination of hazelnuts and pecans. Completely dairy free, gluten free, refined sugar free, vegan and raw.

To all the chocolate lovers out there, I know how you feel. This recipe satisfies your cravings as well as fills your body with the nutrients it needs to stop those crazy sugar highs and lows throughout the day. Great for postpartum mamas who need a little boost.

Makes: 10 slices  ·  Base: 15 minutes  ·  Frosting: 5 minutes

Base Ingredients

• 1 cup hazelnuts
• 1 cup pecans
• 1/2 cup desiccated coconut
• 8 medjool dates, pitted
• 2 tbsp raw cacao powder
• Pinch of sea salt

Cacao Frosting

• 1/2 cup raw cacao powder
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or raw honey
• Pinch of sea salt
• Macadamia nuts to decorate

Method

1. Blend hazelnuts and pecans in a food processor until roughly chopped.
2. Add dates, coconut, cacao and salt. Blend until the mixture sticks together.
3. Press firmly into a lined tin and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
4. Whisk together melted coconut oil, cacao and maple syrup until smooth.
5. Pour over the chilled base and scatter macadamia nuts on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set. Slice and store for up to 1 week.

Why Cacao?

Raw cacao is rich in magnesium for hormone production, iron for energy and menstrual health, and theobromine, a gentle stimulant that improves mood without the cortisol spike of caffeine.