Because is it even Christmas without a cheeky rum ball (or two?!) !

If you’re my mother-in-law, the answer is no! Girlfriend is cuckoo for a Christmas rum ball!

As in, she gets all giddy like an excited little school girl as soon as she sees them appear in stores . . . in October!

The rest of us be like “umm seriously way too soon for Christmas stuff in stores?!” And girlfriend be all happy dancing and high five-ing strangers about the appearance of the rum balls! which is exactly what you’ll be doing once you taste these bad boys!

Subtly sweet, seriously chocolaty, super fudgy infused with a gentle heart & belly-warming hum (or loud rev if you prefer) of “rum”

Made with just a handful of ingredients that I bet you have on hand already & can be ready to devour in less than 20 mins & they get bonus point because they also happen to be secretly good for you! 

They are packed with protein, calcium and are rich in magnesium thanks to those deliciously buttery almonds. And, you also get a double dose of antioxidants thanks to the addition of cacao as well as that decadent, rich, dark chocolate coating! Deliciously winning on so many levels!

You’re welcome

These all-natural, secretly healthy {non-alcoholic} chocolate-covered rum balls would make the perfect addition to your Christmas snack table or, a great little, secretly healthy, fun and festive treat to make and give to friends, family, teachers, co-workers, you name it!

Feel free to use real rum if you prefer and kick up the quantity of you want a stronger flavour but, for me this tiny amount of rum extract (just 1/2 a teaspoon) was perfect. It was subtle, not at all in your face or over-powering – just delicious.

However you choose to do it you really cant go wrong!

Gluten Free – Dairy Free – Grain Free – Refined Sugar Free – Low Carb – Keto – Paleo – Vegan Friendly

From my family to yours, enjoy xo

* If your dates aren’t super fresh & juicy, soak them in boiling water for 10 mins to help rehydrate them then drain & proceed

• I use Macro Mike vanilla buttercream (or cinnamon churro) plant based almond protein powder best in this recipe! Its gluten free, dairy free, sugar free, boosted with probiotics & truly tastes all kinds of incredible. Its hands down without question the smoothest, most delicious, elite tasting protein power (plant based/dairy free or otherwise!!) I have ever tried. And I have tried A LOT! AMB-EMMA to get a cheeky discount if you want to give it a try

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Question of the day –

What holiday treats are you snacking on this year?

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Feel free to share recipes, or links to your fave recipes in the comments below or on the Facebook page and please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make your sugar free, salted caramel cashew butter fudge (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to xo

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The post Choc Fudge “Rum” Balls first appeared on Better with Cake.

Pretty sure, back in the day, I could easily devour a bag of those babies in one sitting . . . man I loved them!

Ahh the good ol’ days . . .

Well , last week I had a craving for them and I was so disappointed. Not only because of the unnecessarily longggggg list of ingredients (and all that added sugar) but they didn’t taste nearly as good as I remembered.

And not really like apricot or coconut at all.

I was so sad!

Don’t you hate it when you eat something and it’s just well, gross?! Not at all what you were craving or hoping for?!

It makes me so sad – I love food! It should always be enjoyable and delicious and when it’s not, especially when it’s something I’ve been really looking forward to, it just makes me sad.

But , these right here,  these quick and easy apricot and coconut bliss bites make me all kinds of happy and I guarantee that they will not leave you feeling disappointed (or like your teeth might fall out) in the slightest!

They’re made with just 5 ingredients that I bet you have on hand already, no weird additives or unpronounceable ingredients – just almonds, apricots, coconut, vanilla & a cheeky pinch of salt.

They taste EXACTLY like apricot and coconut , as they should!

They are soft and chewy, subtly sweet, with a rich, juicy apricot flavor and nice hint of coconut.

Seriously so good!

I also added in a pinch each of cinnamon, ginger, turmeric because;

1 – I’m obsessed with those spices and I just can’t stop putting them on and in all of the things!

2 – I thought like it might be a good idea . . . spoiler alert, it really, REALLY was!

That gentle heart and belly warming hum of spice just marries to perfectly with the mellow flavors of those sweet, juicy apricots and crispy coconut shreds.

I’m talking next level delicious here friends!

Plus, now we get a bonus boost of anti-inflammatory goodness! Deliciously winning on so many levels!

But, even if you made them without the added spices they still taste all kinds of wonderful.

I love the way you can really taste each and every layer, the buttery almonds, the sweet, juicy apricots, the crispy, nutty coconut shreds, that hint of vanilla – the flavors are on point!

And,  although they taste all kinds of magical devoured simply  as they are in all their freshly rolled glory, if you have the time and feel like being a little extra then I strongly suggest that you crush up some freeze dried mango (I tried to find apricot but alas, there was none – I ain’t mad about it though, mango + apricot + coconut = soooooooo yum!) , and while you’re at it, pop some finely shredded coconut into a bowl then . . . roll some of those blissfully delicious apricot and coconut bites, in a little of each.

It’s totally not necessary but the contrast in both flavor and texture is 100% worth it!

Crispy on the outside, super soft and deliciously chewy on the inside!

I am so in love with how well these bliss bites turns out, and I can not wait for you to try them because I know you are going to absolutely LOVE them!

I mean, I know how much you love your bliss bites and one thing you guys made very clear last year was that you wanted more date free recipes.

Well friend, you ask and I deliver.

Well not literally, although if you come over I would totally make you some.

5 ingredients + 10 minutes in the making  . . .

All natural, quick and easy, subtly sweet, soft and chewy delightful little bites of coconut infused deliciousness . . .

A healthier twist on a much loved classic – fun to make, fun to eat, fun to share with the ones you love.

The only thing that’s left to decide is which will you devour first?!

Original, mango or coconut?!

Date Free Golden Spiced Apricot & Coconut Bliss Bites
{Vegan, Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Refined Sugar Free, Keto & Paleo Friendly}
Makes approx 20 {bite size} all natural, subtly sweet, soft and chewy, apricot & coconut bliss bites !

Ingredients –

1 cup raw almonds

1 cup dried apricots – I used these super juicy Turkish apricots – they’re amazing!
* NOTE – Keto/ low carb lovin’ friends  –  soak/ferment your fruit in coconut water keifr or kombucha overnight and you should be ready to roll – read more about how/why it works here

4 Tablespoon of shredded coconut

1 teaspoon of vanilla

1/4 teaspoon of sea salt

A pinch of turmeric

A pinch of ground cinnamon

A pinch of ground ginger

A pinch of ground black pepper – this is important as the chemical compound in the black pepper is what helps and enables the body to absorb all of those incredible nutrients in the turmeric! You can’t taste the pepper, promise.

Optional add ins;

1 teaspoon of maca powder – For hormone balance

1 Tablespoon of MCT oil – brain boosting energy

2 scoops of collagen ( I   Vital proteins unflavored collagen peptides ) –  for gut healing goodness

1-2 scoops of protein powder (vanilla or unflavored would work best in this recipe) – for extra protein – I use Proganics Vanilla whey – you can use EMS10 to get 10% off

Optional for serving –

Freeze dried mango, crushed to powder

Finely shredded coconut flakes

Method –

1 – Optional but highly (HIGHLY) recommended – Place your almonds on to a lined baking tray and roast at 175’C/350’F for 5-10 mins until lightly toasted, gloriously golden and deliciously fragrant.

2 – Once toasted, place your nuts into your food processor/blender and pulse until crumbly, you want there to still be a few bigger chunks to give the bites some nice texture.

3 – Add apricots and process until the mixture starts to come together into a sticky “dough”.

4 – Add vanilla, spices, MCT oil, maca and collagen (if using) then process again until combined.

5 – Using your hands, roll approx 1 small Tablespoons worth of dough into bite size balls then set aside
 – FYI – I like to make my bites on the smaller side. You would probably need 3 of mine to make up one of those golf ball size bites you buy at cafe’s or in stores.

6 – If you are going to coat your bliss bites simply place your mango powder & coconut into a small bowl or zip lock bag and gentle press/shake until nicely coated. Store in the fridge until ready to serve.

Enjoy xo

• If you find your apricots are super dry you could try soaking it in some warm water for 10 mins before you begin, then drain and rinse and make as normal.

__________________________________________

Question of the day –

Are you a fellow bliss bite lover? What’s your favorite flavor combination?

Feel free to share recipes, or links to your fave recipes in the comments below or on the Facebook page and please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make these bliss bites (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to ox

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The post {DATE FREE} Golden Spiced Apricot & Coconut Bliss Bites first appeared on Better with Cake.

Alright party people, I’m going to keep this short and sweet for you today . . .

Today, sweet invisible internet friend of mine, we are going to make ourselves some insanely delicious salted caramel chai spiced bliss bites.

I know, I know there are a million and one different recipes out there for our beloved bliss bites but, I don’t think I’ve seen one for salted caramel chai spiced bliss bites, have you?!

A quick google search confirms the fact that there do not appear to be any other recipes out there in the long lost land of the interwebs for salted caramel chai spiced bliss bites!

Well there is now!

You’re welcome

Here’s the thing . . . as over done as bliss bites may be, they’re just so good!

And so handy to have on hand for when the need to snack strikes!

I love that I can just open the fridge and pop one (or two) of these babies in my mouth and carry on about my business without having to stop and think, hunt around or take time to prepare something.

Or, if I’m heading out I can just throw a couple into a cute little container or zip lock bag and keep them in my bag . . . so much cheaper than having to buy snacks while out and about, not to mention my homemade versions are made with no refined flours or sugars so they are much better for you too.

I don’t know about you but keeping healthy snacks on hand is a non-negotiable around here, no one wants a hangry mama!

Plus, the flavor combinations that you can create are endless so they never get old!

Ever!

Plus, you guys seem to go crazy for them, bliss bites always rank at the top of my most popular posts list!

What can I tell you, I give the people what they want

So, bliss bites . . .

I love em’

You love em’

Let’s make some shall we?

As always our beloved bliss bites are all natural made with just a handful of ingredients that I bet you have on hand already.

They are naturally vegan, gluten free and paleo friendly and come together in a matter of minutes!

And you guys, these salted caramel chai spiced bliss bites are so, so insanely delicious that they may just blow your pretty little mind!

Plump and juicy, deliciously chewy medjool dates are combined with buttery cashews, crisp, crunchy almonds, a splash of vanilla and a pinch of salt to make our divine little salted caramel bliss bite base.

Next, we add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom and cloves to infuse our sweet and chewy salted caramel bliss bites with a heart and belly warming hum of chai spices.

Oh you guys, the combination of those chai inspired flavors with that buttery, sweet, salted caramel base is truly incredible!

I really feel like the chai spice mix helps to balance out the natural sweetness of those magical medjool dates so perfectly and that extra pinch of salt really helps to just bring it all together.

Please don’t freak out about the salt, it’s just 1/2 a teaspoon for the entire batch (of 20!) . I promise you they don’t taste salty at all, the salt just helps to enhance that flavors in our chai spice blend as well as balancing out the natural sweetness or our caramel base.

Trust me on this!

Even my Dad who is my official, go-to taste tester loved these babies and he is super sensitive to salt!

Seriously, the man has a salt radar, even hearing the word salt, or simply looking at a salt shaker makes him cough! But, he love, love, loved these bliss bites and not one cough was uttered during or following consumption! Just lip smacking, “MMmMMM” noises and “those are really very good Em, YUM! Yes, very nice – well done“.

One taste and I think you’ll agree!

Blissfully soft, deliciously chewy, perfectly spiced, chai infused caramel bliss bites . . .

So much deliciousness I tell you, but wait for it . . .

Because next comes the coconut coating . . .

Oh.

My.

Word . . .

You guys . . .

Not only do you get an incredible contrast in texture, with the coconut flakes adding a nice little crunch to the outside of our bliss bites but, you also get a great contrast in flavours when you bite on in.

Crisp and crunchy, deliciously nutty, subtly sweet, coconut flakes on the outside, blissfully soft, deliciously chewy, lightly salted, perfectly spiced, chai infused caramel on the inside;

Ah I can not wait for you to try these, you are going to love them!

Lucky for us they are super simple to make!

You know the drill;

Simply throw your ingredients into your food processor or blender and you’re as good as done!

Once your  buttery, sweet, deliciously chewy, chai spiced bliss bite dough has come together, all that’s left to do is roll them into super cute and perfectly pop-able, bite size pieces and finish them off with a crisp and crunchy coco-nutty coating – boomshakalocka, done!

Deliciously winning on so many levels!

Crisp and crunchy, deliciously nutty, subtly sweet, coconut flakes on the outside, blissfully soft, deliciously chewy perfectly spiced, chai infused salted caramel on the inside;

Just do it already!

Make them. Eat them. Love, love, love them.

Salted Caramel Chai Spiced Bliss Bites {Vegan, Gluten Free & Paleo Friendly}
Makes approx 20 – all natural, quick and easy, crisp, crunchy, deliciously nutty, subtly sweet,  coconut coated, blissfully soft, deliciously chewy, perfectly spiced, chia infused, salted caramel bliss bites.

Ingredients –

1/2 cup cashews (I used raw, unsalted)

1/2 cup almonds (I used raw, unsalted)

3/4 cup medjool dates, pits removed – approx 7 large

1 Tablespoon of vanilla extract

1/2 of salt flakes

1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon of ground nutmeg

1/8 teaspoon of ground cloves

1/8 teaspoon of ground cardamom

1/4 cup of finely shredded coconut for coating.

Method –

1 – Place almonds and cashews in your food processor/blender and pulse until crumbly, you want there to still be a few bigger chunks to give the bites some nice texture.

2 – Add dates and process until the mixture comes together to form a sticky “dough”.

3 – Add vanilla extract, salt flakes and spices and process again until combined.

4 – Using your hands, roll approx 1 Tablespoon of dough into little bite size balls then set aside.

I feel like I should mention that when I make my bliss bites I tend to make them way smaller than the ones you see in stores or cafes. I prefer to make them on the smaller side because I like being able to just pop one in my mouth on the down low so I don’t have to share I can go about my business. I would say you would probably need 3 of my bliss bites to make up the size of one of those store bought/cafe size bites. Feel free make them whatever size that tickles your fancy, just wanted to put that out there

5 – Place your coconut into a small bowl (or even just a zip lock bag) then gently roll your bliss bites in the coconut gently but firmly pressing to make sure to coconut sticks to your bite.

6 – Once your bites have a delicious little coconut coating, transfer directly to your mouth an airtight container (or even just a ziplock bag) and store in the fridge

Enjoy xo

• If you find your dates are a little dry you could try soaking them in some warm water for 10 mins before you begin, then drain and rinse and make as normal.

__________________________________________

Question of the day –

Are you a fellow bliss bite lover? What’s your favorite flavor combination?

Feel free to share recipes, or links to your fave recipes in the comments below or on the Facebook page and please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make these bliss bites (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to

__________________________________________

The post Salted Caramel Chai Spiced Bliss Bites {Vegan, Gluten Free & Paleo Friendly} first appeared on Better with Cake.

The end of another year is upon us and I thought it might be fun to take a look back at the year that was, may I present you with your Reader Favorite – Top 15 Healthy Recipes of 2015 –

1 – Strawberry and Cream Cashew Cookie Bites – Vegan, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly

2 – Vanilla Spiked Protein Waffles

3 – Healthy Homemade Sugar Cookie Energy Bites – Vegan, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly

4 – Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge Power Bites – Vegan

5 – Maple Almond Banana Smoothie – Vegan, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly

6 – Roasted Chickpeas

7 – Coconut Raspberry Dark Chocolate Mini Muffins – Paleo Friendly

8 – Date, Chia and Coconut Energy Bites – Vegan, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly

9 – Healthy, Homemade Sweet Chili Sauce – Vegan & Paleo Friendly

10 – Jamie’s Spring Fritatta

11 – Dark Chocolate Cranberry Coco-nutty Fruit and Nut Clusters – Vegan, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly

12 – Healthy No-Bake Peppermint Mocha Energy Bites – Vegan, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly

13 – Lemon and Blueberry Energy Bites – Vegan, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly

14 – Vanilla Cashew Cream – Vegan, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly

15 – Blueberry, Apple and Banana Super Smoothie – Vegan, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly

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Question of the day –

What was your favorite recipe of 2015?

Feel free to share recipes, or links to your fave recipes in the comments below or on the Facebook page and please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make any of these “best of” recipes (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to

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The post Top 15 Healthy Recipes of 2015 – Reader Favorites first appeared on Better with Cake.

So um, Christmas is just a few short weeks away . . .

Did you know?

Are you ready?

I’m really not.

Not even close!

I blame the jet-lag . . . also the fact that I lost an entire day somewhere above the Atlantic while I was living it up in business class  . . .

Anyways, Christmas is here, I am completely unprepared but I am determined to get myself organized and into the holiday spirit ASAP!

Say hello to Santa’s little helper . . .

All natural, quick and easy, decadent, rich, seriously chocolaty, delicious, nutritious, date free, peppermint mocha bliss bites!

Because to me, nothing says Merry Christmas quite like a peppermint mocha.

I really think you guys are going to love, love, love these babies!

Not only are they super quick and easy to prepare made with just a handful of ingredients that I bet you have on hand already but they come together in 1 bowl in a matter of minutes!

No food processor or blender required!

Simply throw your ingredients into a bowl, give it a stir then you are ready to rock and roll and of course devour enjoy and enjoy you most certainly will!

Our quick and easy, secretly healthy peppermint mocha bliss bites are seriously fudgey, decadent and rich without being overly sweet.

They are intensely chocolaty with a nice little hum of espresso and subtle hint of minty freshness and, just when you think they couldn’t get any better, because coffee + chocolate = absolute awesomeness, wait for it, wait for it – they also happen to be secretly healthy and loaded with nutritional value.

Our dark and delicious, chocolate-mint, espresso infused bites of delicious are high in calcium, iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. They are rich in antioxidants, packed with protein, heart healthy fats, amino acids and those all important omega 3’s.

They also happen to be vegan and gluten free! But, most importantly they are insanely (and I mean insanely) delicious!

Now, you could serve them simply, straight up, just as they are or, if you’re really wanting to treat-yo-self could toss those delicious, nutritious, choc-mint-espresso infused blissful bites of deliciousness in a little cacao,

or some coconut which will add a crazy cool textural element to our soft and chewy, super fudgey, seriously moorish bliss bites, or . . .

If you’re feeling extra festive you could crush up a candy cane or two and add an extra crispy, crunchy, seriously festive sparking burst of minty freshness  just because you can.

I’m thinking you might want to go ahead and make a double/triple batch to keep on hand not only for your own enjoyment, but to make sure you’re stocked and ready for any unexpected visitors that may land on your door step in the coming weeks,

You could also pop them in a cute little jar, throw on some ribbon and you have yourself a pretty sweet little homemade gift. Something you could get the kids involved in too.

Seriously winning on so many levels!

I feel like I should mention that when I make my bliss bites I tend to make them way smaller than the ones you see in stores or cafes. I prefer to make them on the smaller side because I like being able to just pop one in my mouth on the down low so I don’t have to share I can go about my business. I would say you would probably need 3 of my bliss bites to make up the size of one of those store bought/cafe size bites. Feel free make them whatever size that tickles your fancy, just wanted to put that out there

Anyways . . .

All natural, quick and easy, decadent, rich, secretly healthy, delicious, nutritious, super fudgey, intensely chocolaty, espresso infused, seriously festive, minty fresh, date free bites of deliciousness – 

Because for me Christmas isn’t Christmas without a peppermint mocha or two!

Make them. Eat them. Love, love, love them.

{Date Free} Peppermint Mocha Bliss Bites
Makes approx 15 – All natural, quick and easy, decadent, rich, secretly healthy, delicious, nutritious, super fudgey, intensely chocolaty, espresso infused, seriously festive, minty fresh, date free bites of deliciousness
Ingredients –

1/4 cup of Tahini
2 Tablespoons of maple syrup
1 Tablespoon of vanilla extract (or 4-6 drops of vanilla cream stevia – I like to use Sweet Leaf Stevia ) *
1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract (or 1 drop of peppermint stevia I like to use Sweet Leaf Stevia ) *
1 teaspoon of instant espresso
1/4 cup of finely shredded, Desiccated Coconut
1/4 cup of almond meal
1/4 cup of quinoa flakes (paleo friend sub in 2 extra Tbsp of almond meal + 2 Tbsp of  coconut – Non paleo friends you could also probably sub 1/4 cup of instant oats if you prefer)
2 Tablespoons cacao
1 Tablespoon Chia seeds
1 scoop of vital proteins collagen peptides – optional *

Optional for serving –

Cacao
Finely shredded coconut
Candy Canes, crushed.

Method –

1 – Place all ingredients into a medium size bowl and stir to combine.

2 – If the mixture is a little dry add some extra water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it sticks together to form a sticky “dough”

3 – Scoop a small section of dough and shape roll in the palm of your hand to shape into bite size balls, repeat until all the mixture has been used. FYI – I use approx 1 heaping teaspoon per bite which makes them the perfect size for popping into your mouth on the down low so you don’t have to share

4 – If you are going to coat your bliss bites in cacao, coconut or crushed candy canes simply place your cacao, coconut and/or candy canes into a small bowl or zip lock bag and gentle press/shake until nicely coated. Store in the fridge until ready to serve.

Enjoy xo

I order mine online from iherb.com – you can use the code NHN329 to get 10% off  your first order or 5 % off if you’ve ordered through them before

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Question of the day –

What’s your fave holiday treat? Store bought, homemade – it’s all good

Feel free to share recipes, or links to your fave recipes in the comments below or on the Facebook page and please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make these bliss bites (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to

__________________________________________

The post {Date Free} Peppermint Mocha Bliss Bites first appeared on Better with Cake.

Oh my word, you guys . . .

I am so sorry posting has been kind of random lately

I have so much going on in my head right now I can’t think straight.

I try making lists to help me keep track because, just between you and me, I love nothing more than crossing things of my to-do list!

I’m such a nerd I know but, what can I tell ya, I just love it!

Sometimes I add obvious stuff that I’ve already done (← like drink coffee )  just so I can cross it off because it’s just so satisfying!

But, at the moment I’m trying to save my sanity and keep things simple. Nothing trivial or unnecessary is being added and those lists . . . they ain’t getting any shorter!

So instead of tackling my ever growing to-do list, here I am, talking to you, making secretly healthy, seriously chocolatey, strawberry infused, tasty little tahini bliss bites and binge watching pretty little liars.

Wanna join me?

I thought you might . . .

I love the simplicity of these date free bliss bites. One bowl, 5 minutes and you are good to go.

No food processor or blender required. Just 1 bowl, 5 minutes and you are ready to lose yourself in the deliciousness . . .

Decadent, rich and subtly, yet perfectly sweet. The perfect pick me up for anytime of day, and just what this gal needs.

I love the subtle nuttiness of the almond meal and quinoa flakes. That gentle nuttiness helps to balance out the natural sweetness of the maple syrup, vanilla and cacao.

And then you get that hint of strawberry . . .

Oh my word, you guys . . . I can’t even . . .

The strawberry follow through is subtle but amazing!

It totally takes these bliss bites to the next level. They have an almost liquor like taste to them which, makes them feel just a leetle bit fancy and the taste . . . is seriously divine!

And the fact that they also come with a long list of nutritional benefits, well that’s just a delicious little bonus.

I mean it, these strawberry choc chip tahini bliss bites pack a seriously nutritious punch!

They are loaded with calcium, iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, packed with protein and heart healthy fats, as well as those all important amino acids and omega 3’s.

They are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C and iron and, they also happen to be gluten free and, and, depending on what chocolate chips you use, can totally be dairy free and vegan too!

But most importantly they are insanely delicious!

Now, you could serve them simply, straight up, just as they are or, if you’re really wanting to procrastinate, I mean have some fun you could toss those delicious, nutritious, strawberry infused bliss bites in a little cacao,

or some coconut which will add an extra, crazy cool, textural element to those soft and chewy, super fudgey bites of deliciousness, or you could crush up some vibrantly delicious, crispy, crunchy, freeze-dried strawberries and coat them in that.

Go on, you know you wanna

All natural, quick and easy, decadent, rich, delicious, nutritious, super fudgey, seriously chocolately, strawberry infused, date free, choc chip studded blissful bites of nutty deliciousness . . .

The perfect little pick me up for any time of day.

One bite and watch the world around you fall into blissful silence as you lose yourself in the deliciousness that you just created, forgetting allllll about that pesky ol’ to-do list.

At least for a minute of two . . .

Make them. Eat them. Love, love, love them

Strawberry Choc Chip Tahini Bliss Bites {Date Free}
Makes approx 22 – All natural, seriously healthy, quick and easy, decadent, rich, fudgey, chewy, crispy, crunchy,  slightly nutty, strawberry infused, blissful bites of deliciousness.

Ingredients –

1/4 cup of tahini – I use Mayver’s
2 Tablespoons of maple syrup
1 Tablespoon of strawberry extract
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1/4 cup of finely shredded Desiccated Coconut – I use Loving Earth
1/4 cup of almond meal
1/4 cup of quinoa flakes
2 Tablespoons cacao – I use Power Superfoods Cacao
1 Tablespoon chia seeds
1 Tablespoon of dark chocolate chips, roughly chopped

Optional for serving –

Freeze dried strawberries, crushed into powder
Cacao
Finely shredded coconut

Method –

1 – Place all ingredients into a medium size bowl and stir to combine.

2 – If the mixture is a little dry add some extra water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it sticks together to form a sticky “dough”

3 – Scoop a small section of dough and shape roll in the palm of your hand to shape into bite size balls, repeat until all the mixture has been used. FYI – I use approx 1 heaping teaspoon per bite which makes them the perfect size for popping into your mouth on the down low so you don’t have to share

4 – If you are going to coat your bliss bites in strawberry powder, cacao or coconut  simply place your cacao, coconut and/or strawberry into a small bowl or zip lock bag and gentle press/shake until nicely coated. Store in the fridge until ready to serve.

Enjoy xo
__________________________________________

Question of the day –

What are you snackin’ on lately? Store bought, homemade – it’s all good

Feel free to share recipes, or links to your fave recipes in the comments below or on the Facebook page and please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make these bliss bites (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to

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The post Strawberry Choc Chip Tahini Bliss Bites {Date Free} first appeared on Better with Cake.

So I just realised something . . . it’s been over 2 months since we made ourselves some bliss bites!

Seriously, over 2 months!

Can you believe it?!

I don’t even know who I am anymore?!

You guys, I have totally been slacking on the bliss bite front and I am soooooo sorry!

Like big time sorry.

How about I make it up to you with some dark and delicious, decadent, rich, fudgey little chocolate tahini bliss bites that are nutritious as they are delicious??!

You guys are going to love, love, love these babies!

Not only are they all kinds of delicious but they also happen to be super quick and easy to prepare coming together in one bowl in a matter of minutes!

No food processor or blender required!

Simply throw your ingredients into a bowl, give it a good stir then you are ready to rock and roll and of course devour eat.

Yep, you read that right, 1 bowl, 5 mins and it’s time to get your eat on! Talk about snack time winning!

So not only are these dark and delicious, chocolate tahini bliss bites all kinds of delicious and super quick and easy to prepare but, they also happen to be loaded with nutritional value!

Seriously, did you know that –

Tahini is an incredible source of calcium, iron, magnesium, and B vitamins?!

Almond meal is packed with protein, heart healthy fats, and magnesium!

Quinoa flakes are a complete protein which means they include all of those all important amino acids, as well as being high in magnesium and dietary fibre.

Cacao is rich in antioxidants, magnesium and sulphur which is beneficial for healthy skin and nails.

And then we have those cheeky little chia seeds which are rich in protein, omega-3’s, magnesium, fibre, calcium, vitamin C, antioxidants, and iron.

Didn’t I tell you these bliss bites were loaded with nutritional value!?

They also happen to be gluten free, dairy free and vegan!

Superfood say whaaaaaat?!

So now that we know how seriously good for you these tasty little treats are let’s talk about how incredible they taste shall we?!

Oh you guys . . . our chocolate tahini bliss bites are seriously fudgey, decadent and rich without being overly sweet.

The nuttiness of our almond meal and quinoa really helps to balance out the natural sweetness from our maple syrup, vanilla and cacao.

Although these bliss bites are super fudgey, they also happen to have a crazy cool, subtle crunch factor to them thanks to our chia-licious chia seeds.

Without question these dark and delicious, seriously nutritious, oh so chocolatey tahini bliss bites are a texture lovers dream!

Now, these chocolate tahini bliss bites are all kinds of incredible just as they are but, if you want to jazz them up a little and add another, crazy-cool, textural element to you superfood, super-snack then you can totally roll them in a little cacao,

or even some coconut.

Or you could bust open a packet of your favourite sprinkles and really get the party started . . .

I don’t know about you but in our house we bust out the sprinkles any and every chance we get!

I should mention that when I make my bliss bites I tend to make them way smaller than the ones you see in stores or cafes. I prefer to make them on the smaller side because I like being able to just pop one in my mouth on the down low so I don’t have to share I can go about my business. I would say you would probably need 3 of my bliss bites to make up the size of one of those store bought/cafe size bites. Feel free make them whatever size that tickles your fancy, just wanted to put that out there

Anyways . . .

All natural, seriously healthy, quick and easy, dark and delicious, decadent, rich, fudgey, chewy, crispy, crunchy, date free, chocolate tahini bliss bites, the perfect pick me up any time of day.

Make them. Eat them. Love, love, love them

Chocolate Tahini Bliss Bites {Date Free}
Makes approx 20 – All natural, seriously healthy, quick and easy, dark and delicious, decadent, rich, fudgey, chewy, crispy, crunchy, bet size – chocolate tahini bliss bites.

Ingredients –

1/4 cup of unhulled tahini – I used Mayver’s 
1/8 cup of maple syrup
1/4 cup of finely shredded  coconut
1/4 cup of almond meal
1/4 cup of quinoa flakes (could sub oats – use gluten free if sensitive – if you prefer)
1/8 cup cacao
1 Tbsp chia seeds
1 tsp instant espresso – to help enhance the richness of the chocolate

Optional add-ins ;

1 teaspoon of maca – for hormone balance

1-2 scoops of Vital proteins unflavored collagen peptides – for an extra boost of protein and gut healing goodness

1 scp protein powder – for extra protein (chocolate, vanilla or unflavored would work best in this recipe) – I use Proganics Vanilla whey – you can use EMS10 to get 10% off

Optional for serving – 

Cacao
Finely shredded coconut
Sprinkles!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Method –

1 – Place all ingredients into a medium size bowl and stir to combine.

2 – If the mixture is a little dry add a splash water (a teaspoon at a time) until it sticks together to form a sticky “dough”

3 – Scoop a small section of dough and shape roll in the palm of your hand to shape into bite size balls, repeat until all the mixture has been used. FYI – I use approx 1 heaping teaspoon per bite which makes them the perfect size for popping into your mouth on the down low so you don’t have to share

4 – If you are going to coat your bliss bites in cacao, coconut or sprinkles simple place your cacao, coconut and/or sprinkles into a small bowl or zip lock bag and gentle press/shake until nicely coated. Store in the fridge until ready to serve.

Enjoy xo
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Question of the day –

What are you snackin’ on lately? Store bought, homemade – it’s all good

Feel free to share recipes, or links to your fave recipes in the comments below or on the Facebook page and please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make these bliss bites (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to

__________________________________________

The post Chocolate Tahini Bliss Bites {Date Free} first appeared on Better with Cake.

Oh you guys it’s been waaaayyyyyyy to long since we made ourselves some energy bites!

I’ve totally been slacking I know and in the interest of full disclosure it’s simply because I have had my head stuck in the deep, delicious depths of a jar (or 10) of almond butter but, I promise one bite of these blissfully delicious energy bites and all will be forgiven .

So sweet invisible internet friend of mine today we are going to make ourselves an all natural, quick and easy, healthy, homemade version of one of my all time fave childhood snacks – the good ol’ apricot delight!

I have no idea why but every time I say (or think) apricot delight I get the overwhelming urge to burst into song – “sky rocket’s in flight, afternoon delight!”

Just me?!

Awkward . . .

So anyways . . . apricot delight energy bites, let’s make some shall we?! As always our delicious little energy bites are all natural and made with just a handful of ingredients that I bet you have on hand already, they are made with no refined flours or sugars and they come together in a matter of minutes 

They also happen to be both vegan and paleo friendly which of course I just love, love, love but, what I love the most of all is the fact that these delightful little apricot energy bites are insanely, and I mean insanely delicious!

Dare I say they taste even better than the store bought ones I fondly remember?!

I decided to mix things up a little this time *gasp* using a combination of almonds and cashews to make our base because I wanted to give our tasty treats a slight hint of buttery deliciousness (thank you cashews) and I knew the neutral flavour tone of the almonds would help to balance out the natural sweetness from the dates and apricots. And let me just tell you it worked like a charm!

These energy bites definitely have a strong, sweet apricot flavour with just a hint of that delicious almond undertone which results in a deliciously moorish, soft and chewy, energy bite that is just perfectly balanced – not overbearing or sickly sweet – total snack time winning baby!

So, our almonds and cashews are combined with plump, juicy medjool dates, sweet, chewy dried apricots, a splash of vanilla along with some almond extract to make our dreamy bites of apricot infused deliciousness but we don’t stop there . . .

Once you have finished rolling your bites you simply face plant those freshly rolled bites of apricot infused deliciousness into some finely shredded coconut and you are good to go.

because everybody knows you can’t have apricot delight without that crispy, crunchy, slightly nutty, subtly sweet coconut coating!

I love the way that coconut coating not only completes that classic, old school apricot delight flavour combination but, it also adds a nice contrast in texture which I just adore.

Crisp and crunchy, slightly nutty, subtly sweet coconut on the outside, soft and chewy apricot and almond infused deliciousness on the inside.

Plus it makes them look like delicious little snow balls which is just all kinds of fun if you ask me.

Fun to look at, fun to make and all kinds of fun to eat.

The perfect little treat for anyone, anywhere, anytime

All natural, quick and easy, soft and chewy, crisp and crunchy, healthy, homemade morsels of apricot infused, coconut coated blissful bites deliciousness.

“Sky rocket’s in flight . . . afternoon delight”

Make them. Eat them. Love, love, love them.

Apricot Delight Energy Bites {Vegan & Paleo Friendly}
Makes approx 40 All natural, quick and easy, soft and chewy, crisp and crunchy, healthy, homemade morsels of apricot infused, coconut coated blissful bites of deliciousness.

Ingredients –

1/2 cup of raw cashews

1/2 cup of raw almonds

1/3 cup of medjool dates, pits removed

1/3 cup of dried apricots

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon of almond extract

a pinch of salt

1/4 cup of finely shredded coconut for coating.

Method –

1 – Place the cashews and almonds in your food processor/blender and pulse until crumbly, you want there to still be a few bigger chunks to give the bites some nice texture.

2 – Add the dates and apricots then process until the mixture starts to come together into a sticky, loose “dough”.

3 – Add vanilla and almond extract along with a good pinch of salt and process again until combined.

4 – Using your hands, roll approx 1 heaping teaspoon of dough into little bite size balls then set aside

5 – Place your coconut into a small bowl (or even just a zip lock bag) then gently roll your bliss bites in the coconut gently but firmly pressing to make sure to coconut sticks to your bite.

6 – Once your bites have a delicious little coconut coating, transfer directly to your mouth an airtight container (or even just a ziplock bag) and store in the fridge

Enjoy xo

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Question of the day –

What snacks are you loving’ lately?

Feel free to share recipes, or links to your fave recipes in the comments below or on the Facebook page and please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make these delightful little bites (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to

__________________________________________

The post Apricot Delight Energy Bites {Vegan & Paleo Friendly} first appeared on Better with Cake.

The energy/bliss bite obsession continues . . .

May I present you with the first (of many I am sure) bliss/energy bite recipes for 2015 . . .

Healthy, no-bake blueberry cream pie energy bites.

You guys have been busy, busy on Pinterest these last few weeks, pinning the healthy, no-bake energy/bliss bites recipes like cah-razy. Especially our strawberry and cream cashew cookie bites . . . which gave me a delicious little idea . . .

Take out the strawberries and throw in some blueberries because well, why not?!

You guys . . . simply changing the berries from strawbs to bluebs . . .

oh

my

word!

When I tell you these babies taste like blueberry cream pie I mean it!

like for reals . . .

Buttery cashews are combined with plump and juicy medjool dates, a splash of vanilla to replicate that buttery, sweet pie crust base.

Then we throw in some freeze dried blueberries and there you have it –

Simple, healthy, no-bake, buttery sweet, vanilla spiked, creamy, dreamy blueberry pie baby!
Not only do our freeze dried blueberries add an awesome, antioxidant rich, subtly sweet, berrylicious burst of flavour but, they also happen to give our energy bites a nice little crunch which I just adore.

One bite and you will see our creamy, dreamy, blueberry-vanilla infused bites of deliciousness are plump and chewy with a cool, crisp crunch. A texture lovers dream!

As always our energy bites are all natural, made with no refined flours or sugars. They are sweetened naturally with those magical medjool dates, a splash of vanilla and of course those crispy, crunchy freeze dried blueberries. It doesn’t get much simpler really!

All natural, secretly healthy, insanely delicious blueberry pie that comes together in a matter of minutes!

5 simple, real food ingredients, 5 minutes in your food processor or blender and 5 mins until they are ready to be inhaled devoured enjoyed.

No need to pre-heat your oven, or mess with rolling, kneading, resting pie dough, no siree.

Simply throw everything into your blender or food processor, and let it do the work for you. Just blend/process until you have yourself a deliciously sticky “ball” of buttery sweet, vanilla spiked, blueberry infused pie “dough” and you are ready to rock and roll baby.

And I mean that literally, just pinch off some of your “dough” (I use approx 1 heaping teaspoon per bliss bite) – roll and eat.

No risk of burning your pretty little mouth because you can’t wait for your pie to cool either ← because we’ve all been there right?! #truth

All natural, secretly healthy, buttery, sweet, vanilla spiked, blueberry cream pie energy bites that taste like a dream and also happen to be vegan, dairy free and paleo friendly – everybody wins!!

Yes, yes just yes!

Quick and easy, healthy and delicious – perfect for anytime time of day.

All natural, secretly healthy, single serve, vegan, dairy free, paleo friendly blueberry cream pie for everyone!!!

What are you waiting for?

Pie eating contest anyone

Make them. Eat them. Love, love, love them.

 

Healthy, No-bake Blueberry Cream Pie Energy Bites {Vegan, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly}
Makes approx 40 all natural, secretly healthy, creamy, dreamy, blueberry-vanilla infused energy packed bites of deliciousness

Ingredients –

1 cup raw cashews

6 medjool dates*, pits removed

1/2 cup freeze dried blueberries

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

a pinch of salt flakes

Method –

1 – Place cashews in your food processor/blender and pulse until crumbly, you want there to still be a few bigger chunks to give the bites some nice texture.

2 – Add dates and pules until the mixture starts to come together to form a sticky “dough”.

3 – Add vanilla extract and salt flakes and pulse again to combined.

4 – Lastly add your freeze dried blueberries and pulse until just combined.

5 – Using your hands, roll approx 1 heaping teaspoon of dough into little bite size balls then transfer to an airtight container (or even just a ziplock bag) and store in the fridge until you are ready to devour indulge.

Enjoy xo

If you find your dates are a little dry, try soaking them in warm water for 10 mins prior to blending. Alternately you could add a little water, 1 teaspoon at a time if your “dough” doesn’t seem to be coming together after a minute or two as it should.

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Question of the day –

Cake or pie, what’s the one dessert you can’t say no to?

The post Healthy, No-bake Blueberry Cream Pie Energy Bites {Vegan, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly} first appeared on Better with Cake.

Ok so, Christmas flavour numero 2 = Rum balls!

Although this is not one from my childhood this came much (much) later in life and is in honour of my mother in law.

Girlfriend is cuckoo for a Christmas rum ball!

As in, she gets all giddy like an excited little school girl as soon as she sees them appear in stores . . . in October!

The rest of us be like “umm seriously way to soon for Christmas stuff in stores?!” And girlfriend be all happy dancing and high five-ing strangers about the appearance of the rum balls!

I personally was never a fan, they were always way to boozy for me!

Just sitting next to my mother in law when she cracked the lid on that box of rum balls was enough to make my head spin.

But, I do love the idea of them.

They remind me of a grown up version of my double chocolate bliss/energy bites and I think it’s safe to say we all know how obsessed I am with those bad boys (evidence → here, → here, → here, → here and → here).

So, with mother in law coming to our house for Christmas this year I thought I would make her a healthier, family friendly version of those dearly loved rum balls.

Basically, I made a batch of my double chocolate bliss/energy bites and added in a splash of rum extract. Boomshakalocka = done!

A handful of all natural ingredients, a few minutes in your blender and you have yourself one seriously tasty, nostalgic little treat.

Sweetened naturally with those magical, juicy, chewy little medjool dates, and a splash of vanilla.

They are packed with protein, calcium and healthy fats thanks to those raw almonds. You also get a double dose antioxidants thanks to the addition of a little dark cacao as well as those dark chocolate chips.

You’re welcome

All natural, secretly healthy, decadent, rich and studded with dark chocolate, what’s not to love?!

Our all natural, clean eating {non-alcoholic} double chocolate rum balls are fudgey and rich, studded with dark chocolate chips and they have a subtle, belly warming hint of liquor.

Feel free to use real rum if you prefer and to kick up the quantity of you want a stronger flavour but, for me this tiny amount of rum extract (just 1/2 a teaspoon) was just perfect. It was subtle, not at all in your face or over powering – just delicious.

Today we use almonds to build our bliss bite base, the neutral flavour really allows the dark and delicious, decadent, dark chocolate flavours to take centre stage and shine on through.

These all natural, clean eating {non-alcoholic} double chocolate rum balls are the perfect little last minute addition to your Christmas snack table or, a great little, secretly healthy, double chocolate, holiday treat to make and give to friends, family, teachers, co-workers, you name it!

Simply throw your ingredients into your trusty old bender or food processor and you are ready to rock and roll my friend. No muss, no fuss baby! Just what you need when it’s all systems go right?!

Theses babies also happen to be both vegan and paleo friendly and, depending on the kind of chocolate chips you use they could totally be dairy free too! Winning!!!!

Decadent, rich, fudgey little bites of secretly healthy, double chocolate deliciousness that are infused with a subtle, belly warming hint of “rum”.

Gotta keep the mother in law happy right

Make them. Eat them. Love, love, love them.

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Question of the day –

What holiday treats are you snacking on this year?

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The post All natural, Clean Eating {Non-Alcoholic} Double Chocolate Rum Balls first appeared on Better with Cake.