What do you prefer, cooking or baking? I definitely prefer cooking. It allows me to be unplanned and improvise – throwing things in here and there. Baking and using all my measuring equipment to be precise just cramps my style. I’d rather eyeball or do a pinch or a nub of this and that. So that’s why I like the happy medium of making no-bake paleo-style treats, like this no-bake brownie.
With Valentine’s day around the corner, I thought I’d share the requisite chocolate recipe that includes a health boosting ingredient known for its powers in the libido department and other benefits for your wellbeing ;).
These little brownie bites pack a chocolatey punch and deliver rich little morsels of deliciousness. And don’t tell me I didn’t warn you but the magical powers of maca.
What is Maca?
This powerful Peruvian root has been cultivated for over 2,000 years. It’s an adaptogenic herb which is a type of plant that adapts to provide what our body needs. Amazing right? They help balance hormones and stress response. This is why you are hearing so much about adaptogenic herbs lately as they are wonderful for supporting our body’s balance which is often pushed to the edge in our stressful modern life.
Maca is also known to boost energy and stamina, balance female hormones and is considered a “superfood” because if its nutritional density.
As with any medicinal herb, use Maca with care and be mindful of how it makes you feel. You might be surprised at the surge of energy you get from one of these little bites!
For another chocolate maca combo recipe, try this Maca Mexican Hot Chocolate, perfect for warming up this winter!
Ingredients
- 1 cup walnuts
- 8 pitted medjool dates (soaked for 10 minutes and then drained if tough)
- 1/4 cup raw cacao
- 1/4 cup homemade almond butter
- 1/4 cup raw cacao nibs
- 1-2 teaspoons maca (optional supplement)
- 1/4 teaspoon raw vanilla powder or vanilla extract
- Generous pinch pink Himalayan salt
Directions
- In a food processor, pulse the walnuts until they super fine.
- Add all the other ingredients and process until just combined. You should be able to press the mixture together between your fingers and it will stay. Don’t over process!
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper and press the mixture in evenly.
- Freeze for about an hour and then cut into brownie squares/slices.
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