If you’re anything like me then chocolate is one of those treats you can’t live without, there always seems to be some new research coming out saying how ‘good’ chocolate is for us. Cocoa actually has quite a number of health benefit’s (high in antioxidant flavanoids and magnesium) but I think the best thing about chocolate is the pure, smile worthy indulgence of eating it.

A lot of dark chocolate is vegan but make sure you check the pack for those sneaky milk solids.

Recipe

¾ cup cocoa powder

1 tsp vanilla essence

Pinch of sea salt

½ cup pitted dates- soaked for 5 mins in ½ cup hot water.

1 tbsp coconut oil

1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (omit if you want less sugar, add a dash of reserved date soaking water instead)

6 maraschino cherries

6 frozen blackberries (or any frozen berries of choice.)

½ cup dark dairy free chocolate

2 tsp coconut oil

In food processor blend cocoa powder, salt, drained dates and first measure coconut oil until it forms a soft dough ball.

Melt chocolate and second measure coconut oil in microwave or double boiler.

Roll about a tablespoon sized amount of dough into a a ball, flatten slightly and push a cherry or berry into middle, wrapping dough around it and roll in palm of hands back into a smooth ball.

Dip the balls into melted chocolate and place on a lined tray, repeat until all dough is used up.

Freeze for 10 mins- Will keep in freezer for 2 weeks or in fridge for a few days- if they last that long without being munched!

Makes 10-12