Originally this recipe started out as Date Nut Squares but over the past year, with the availability & popularity of raw cacao powder, it has transformed into a delicious chewy fudge, guilt-free!  This recipe is super simple, raw, quick and tasty.  If you are a concerned parent worrying if your kids are getting enough protein, iron, good fats, etc., these squares are a guarantee win.  These are delicious, nutritious, easy to travel with and easy to chew – for all ages :)

I will give you the basic recipe below but first here are some tasty ingredients you could try adding to the recipe.  You could add raw cacao nibs (crushed cacao beans) for their crunchy chocolaty taste, high protein, mineral and antioxidant properties; carob powder or chips for flavor and nutrients; dried berries such as goji for a tangy flavor and extra iron and antioxidants; Amazing Grass Kidz Superfoods for the chocolaty sweet flavor and the 23 dried fruits & veggies and green super-foods; Peanut butter is a very tasty addition too although it would be the only non-raw ingredient.  Be creative and see what everyone’s favorite blends are.

These are great for snack, quick breakfast, or even late night desert.  They are raw and easily digested so you don’t have to feel guilty.  This is how I have currently been making them for clients, family and friends so if you have tasted my fudge in the last 2 months, this would be the exact recipe…

Coconut Fudge:

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup raw walnuts or almonds (walnuts are my favorite), soaked 6-8 hours first for easier digestion and less fat
• 1/2 cup raw cacao powder (start with 1/3 cup & as more as desired) – I use the Ultimate Superfood brand
• 1 cup raisins
• 1cup pitted dates
• 2 cups raw shredded coconut
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/8 – 1/4 cup organic unsweetened peanut butter – this is optional because it is not raw but adds an amazing creaminess and flavor.  You could always use the same amount of raw cold-pressed coconut oil, Artisana’s coconut butter or raw almond butter instead of peanut  butter.

Directions:

1. Mix the ingredients, except for the cacao powder and coconut, in a food processor in the order given.
2. At this point you can try adding any of my suggested additions above.
3. Stir in the cacao and shredded coconut – Using your hands works best, simply smash it all together until well mixed.
4. Press the mixture into a 8×8 inch baking dish and chill for 2-3 hours before serving.
5. Cut into squares while in the pan and serve.  They will keep for weeks in the fridge.

*Tastes great topped with Almond, cashew or coconut Cream

*1/8 cup raw chia seeds (either grind them up first in a coffee grinder or try soaking them in water for about 1/2 hour) – increases protein, calcium, iron, good omegas, fiber & endurance.

** For those on a strict candida diet where you can’t eat the dates or raisins, try using Xylitol which is a natural granulated sugar-type product that doesn’t have any adverse affects or rise blood sugar levels.  The other sweetener you could use is Yacon Syrup which is a pre-biotic sweetener that is very healthy for diabetics and also does not affect the blood sugar.  If you use either of these products in place of dates and raisins but sure to add the Coconut butter and/or nut butter to help bind the fudge together.

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