Finding ways to enjoy the treats we crave, but in healthier versions, is incredibly satisfying. Especially when it's so easy to do.
What if I told you that a healthy peanut butter cup can be made in minutes with just three ingredients?
Dark chocolate chips and dry roasted almonds mixed with powdered sugar are all you need to make this nutritious yet decadent dessert. I use 60% cacao chocolate for a rich, deep flavor and generally less added sugar. I'm also careful about choosing dry roasted peanuts that have some ingredients on the label and no added oil.
Powdered sugar is my go-to for these treats because they are all natural and minimally processed. However, other sweeteners can easily be substituted, one at a time.
Note: Natural peanut butter without sugar can be used instead of peanuts. I got natural peanut butter and powdered sugar from Sprouts.
Candy molds can be used to shape candy. I used a non-stick mini muffin pan to shape what I made.
Knowing that my family can enjoy healthy peanut butter is incredibly rewarding and requires little effort.
Enjoy freshly prepared food!
1 cup dry roasted peanuts
Powdered sugar 3 tbsp
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Place peanuts and palm sugar in a high speed blender. Press 2 or 3 times. Then blend on high speed until smooth and fluffy. May need to scrape the sides once or twice to fully incorporate the mixture.
Place the chocolate chips in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 20 seconds. Microwave again for 15 to 20 seconds and blend quickly until smooth and fluffy.
Place 1 teaspoon chocolate in a muffin or candy pan. Add 1 teaspoon of peanut butter filling to the chocolate coating. Drizzle over another teaspoon of melted chocolate. Repeat until 8 to 12 candies are made, depending on the size of the mold.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. To remove the frosted candy, insert the tip of the knife between the candy and the side of the cake. Keep in fridge.
Angelina LaRue is a food writer, recipe developer and author of "The Whole Enchilada Fresh and Nutritious Southwestern Cuisine."
This article was originally published in the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Freshly Made Foods: How Delicious: Healthy Peanut Butter Cups for a Balanced Diet