I've had a crazy sweet tooth lately, and in an effort to nix the Kit-Kat's for breakfast, I came up with this recipe for Cacao-Almond Granola. This 'nola packs a protein and fiber punch to keep you full and strong as you start your day, without all the refined sugar. The recipe can easily be made vegan by substituting the egg white for a vegan-friendly egg white product, or by omitting altogether. Paleo-approved and gluten free <3
Cacao does some heavy lifting:
- It is the highest plant-based source of iron (a must for those of us who don't eat red meat!).
- Cacao has more antioxidants than blueberries.
- It's full of magnesium - essential for a healthy heart and brain.
- More calcium than cow's milk.
- Cacao is a natural mood elevator and anti-depressant.
Let's not forget our good friend Hemp:
Did you know protein makes up 25% of total calories in a serving of hemp hearts? They are also rich in healthy fats, vitamin E, and minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Nature sure is a wonder.
The Recipe:
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (not steel cut)
- 1 cup puffed brown rice cereal, no sugar added.
- 1/3 cup raw cacao powder
- 1/4 hemp hearts
- 1 tsp instant espresso powder (this really helps develop the chocolate flavors, but can be omitted if desired)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 cup unrefined coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup clover honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp almond extract
- 1 egg white, beaten until frothy.
Preheat the oven to 325*F; line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. In a large bowl, combine oats, rice cereal, cacao, hemp seeds, espresso, and salt. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut oil, maple syrup, honey, vanilla, and almond extract, until smooth. Pour wet ingredients over the dry ingredients, and stir with a rubber spatula until the oat mixture is thoroughly coated. Add the egg white and stir to combine. Pour the raw granola onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Bake, stirring once, until the oats are just beginning to brown, about 25 minutes. Suggest stir-ins (add to dry ingredients): chopped almonds, shredded coconut, or raw cacao nibs. Experiment!
I enjoy mine with yogurt and a drizzle of pitaya or acai puree for an added antioxidant boost. Happy nom-ing!
Share the recipe, share your photos, & share the love! #bespokewellnessgroup #bwgrecipebox
