Raw Nut Fudge Brownies

Have you tried raw desserts yet? They will blow your mind, if not for the taste, then for the deliciousness AND healthfulness they are (yes, I just invented that word, healthfulness, because it is truthy!) First of all, if they are chocolate in nature, then they are packed with raw cacao powder. Some even consider it a superfood, and believe that eating chocolate bars with a high percentage of cacao have health benefits. No matter what you believe, these raw nut fudge/brownies are addictive. So choose to believe that they are also good for you!

Secondly, raw chefs are ingenious in their ability to use plant-based ingredients to mimic desserts like mousse, chocolate cake, key lime pie, you name it! At Co-opportunity, we even sell raw frozen treats! 

This recipe comes to me from my good friend and spiritual advisor Nora Herold who has turned my thinking around on both raw and vegan food (along with Isa Chandra of course!) So while I cannot credit the initial recipe that Nora used, this is her version, with a few modification of my own - couldn't resist!
  
Raw Nut Fudge Brownies

1 1/2 cups nuts (Walnuts, Cashews, Pecans, whatever)
1 1/2 cups Medjool Dates, pitted
1/2 cup raw cacao powder
1 tablespoon coconut oil
2 tablespoons raw almond butter (or other raw nut butter)
1 cup shredded coconut
1-2 tablespoons cacao nibs (optional)
1 teaspoon mint extract (optional)

Process nuts and dates and while processing stream in 1 teaspoons of water to help it hold together. Add cacao powder, coconut oil and almond butter and process until full incorporated. Add coconut and nibs if using and process again. Add mint extract if using or another teaspoon of coconut oil to ensure smooth creamy texture. Pat into a 9" x 9" Pan, chill for at least 2 hours and cut in squares. Wrap in parchment paper and store in airtight container (if they last that long!)

Hugs!

Recipes currently inspiring me:

Chocolate Toffee Matzo Brittle at Very Culinary
The Ultimate Mock "Tuna" Salad at An Edible Mosaic
Blood Orange Granita with Ginger and Mint at ECurry!