Okay so here they are. Brownies. When tested they weren't quite the traditional crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside affair, but they still tasted rather delightful. They definitely hit the spot when you're craving a sweet treat and I also find them a great post training reward or a small bar to beat those afternoon cravings. These are fairly easy to make, no bake and can be made nearly 100% raw as well as gluten free depending on the ingredients you use. If you're looking for a sweet treat made from natural ingredients then carry on reading!
So here's what you'll need to make these delicious "brownies" (makes around 8-10 squares)
- A large handful of oats (to make these completely gluten free you can use GF oats)
- One large banana
- 125g pitted dates
- 45ml water
- Around 100g cashews
- 6 tbsp Cocoa powder (you can also use Cacoa powder if you have it to hand)
Begin by blending together, in a food processor, all the dry ingredients. Chop up your banana and add that to the dry mixture. Pulse those altogether. Next, slowly add your dates to the food processor. Pulse these gradually so that it doesn't clog up the machine and use little bits of water to aid the blending. Once you've added all your dates you should get something along the lines of the dough-like mixture above. Place your mixture into a lined tin (a pyrex dish or similar container will also do) and use a wet hand to compact it down to a height of about 3inches. Place in the fridge and leave for around 40 minutes to an hour to set. Once that's done, take it out, slice it up and enjoy. I've been keeping mine in the freezer to help them last longer but if you're planning to keep them for shorter length (they're seriously moreish), then the fridge should be fine. If you do keep them in the freezer take them out and let them defrost slightly for a softer bar.
I will definitely be making another batch of these in the future, they're super handy to have around. Let me know if you give this recipe a go and what you thought of it. Tweet me @afloralcrown.
I'm posting everyday as part of my 24 days of Christmas Fitness. Make sure to check back each day for a new post all the way up until Christmas Day!