Read by Michael Flamel

The Wisdom of Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate isn’t just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a treasure trove of health benefits! Rich in antioxidants, dark chocolate helps combat free radicals, supports heart health, and even improves brain function. By choosing dark chocolate as a key ingredient, we harness these benefits while indulging in the rich, deep flavors that make desserts so irresistible.

When creating our healthy brownies, we opted for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. This ensures we get the maximum health benefits while keeping sugar content low. Look for fair-trade or organic dark chocolate to support sustainable practices and enjoy a purer, more ethically produced product.

The Nutty Ensemble

Our mixed nuts are carefully selected to add both crunch and nutrition to our brownies. We source almonds, walnuts, and cashews from local farmers’ markets and trusted suppliers to ensure freshness and quality. Each type of nut contributes unique health benefits:

Almonds: Packed with vitamin E, fiber, and healthy fats, almonds support heart health and help manage blood sugar levels.

Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts boost brain health and reduce inflammation.

Cashews: These creamy nuts provide a good source of protein, iron, and magnesium, supporting overall wellness.

The Perfect Balance

While the idea of a healthy brownie might seem paradoxical, incorporating nutritious ingredients allows us to enjoy our favorite treats without compromising our health goals. As Benjamin Franklin wisely noted, “Moderation is the key to success and happiness,” and this philosophy is at the heart of our healthy holiday brownie recipe.

These brownies are designed to be the star of your holiday gatherings, offering a guilt-free indulgence that brings people together. Let’s dive into the recipe and create some magic!

Recipe: Dark Chocolate Mixed Nut Healthy Brownies

Ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup coconut oil (melted)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Add-ins:

• 1 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped)
• 1/2 cup chopped almonds
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup chopped cashews

Instructions:

Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly with coconut oil.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the melted coconut oil and honey (or maple syrup) until well blended. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.

Blend Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Add the Goodies: Fold in the chopped dark chocolate and mixed nuts until evenly distributed.

Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.

Serving Suggestions and Beverage Pairings

These healthy brownies are best enjoyed slightly warm, perhaps with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey. For an extra touch of decadence, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top.

Pair these brownies with a cup of herbal tea, like peppermint or chamomile, to complement the rich chocolate flavor. Alternatively, a glass of almond milk or a light, fruity red wine such as Pinot Noir makes a delightful pairing.

Enjoy your dark chocolate mixed nut healthy brownies and savor the joy of a balanced indulgence this holiday season! ❖