Something I thought Lori might like, maybe even GG
Originally posted by Katdarlin.
Raw Almond Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites
These no-bake cookies are deeeeelish, a healthier alternative, natural, and even vegan!
These bite-sized treats feature coconut oil, almond butter and pure maple syrup, which when combined with dried almond pulp, create the texture and mouth feel of traditional cookie dough–> without any baking to worry about.
(Coconut oil, along with other healthy fats, are key to brain health and may actually boost metabolic function. Almonds not only contain additional healthy fat, but are also associated with lowering cholesterol and are a hefty source of magnesium and vitamin E. With an extra boost of fiber from the almond pulp, this naturally sweetened cookie dough is actually something you can feel good about eating!)
Ok, ready?
Makes 16 bite-sized pieces
Ingredients:
1 cup dried almond pulp “flour”
1/4 cup coconut oil, softened
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
6 tablespoons raw almond butter
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
dark chocolate chips, as needed (I chose Lilly's brand, sweetened with stevia)
Directions:
(The almond pulp is what is leftover after you make almond milk. If you do not want to make fresh almond milk, you can get store bought almond flour, but fresh is better, and cheaper.)
The key to working with almond pulp is drying it first, so don’t be tempted to skip this crucial step. Spread out the pulp on parchment paper and set the oven at 200F. I did check at the 30 and 45 minute mark to make sure all was ok. It was fine and done after an hour. Once the pulp is dry, you simply pulse it in a food processor to break up any clumps and create a flour-like texture. Any leftover almond pulp “flour” can be stored as you would traditional almond flour, in a sealed container in the pantry, or in the fridge for longer shelf life.
Measure out one cup of the almond pulp flour, using the "scoop and swipe" method: Scoop the flour with a measuring cup and swipe the top with the back of a knife to level off the top.
Combine the dried almond pulp flour with the coconut oil, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla and sea salt in the bowl of a food processor, and pulse until a sticky, uniform batter is formed.
Adjust the flavor to taste, if necessary, then use a tablespoon to scoop the batter into bite-sized balls. The batter may feel slightly greasy, thanks to the coconut oil melting with the warmth of the food processor, but rest assured that they will lose that greasy texture once they have set in the fridge.
Roll the batter between your hands to form a smooth shape, then arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press the dark chocolate chips into each ball, before placing in the fridge or freezer to set.
I placed mine in the freezer, because I'm impatient, and I found that these were set "enough" after 10 minutes. I recommend storing and serving these bites directly the fridge or freezer for best texture.
IF you WANT to bake... as an added bonus, these little bite-sized bites can also be baked for a delicious cookie treat! They don't spread like a traditional cookie, but they do get crispy on the outside and stay soft and tender on the inside. If you keep a stash of these bites in your freezer, you will only be 10 minutes away from a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie anytime you like! To bake, preheat your oven to 350F and arrange the frozen cookie dough bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cookie bottoms are golden brown. Allow to cool for 5 minutes-- they will firm up a bit-- then devour!
But, I guess since I'm already at work, I'll stay up since sleeping at your desk is frowned upon. 
I could go for a chili cheese hotdog though.
