Recipe Creation: Crunchy Grain Free Granola

I sit here with a handful of granola as I write this because it is just so darn good. I CANNOT STOP.  I don't feel too guilty about my newfound obsession since it is chock-full of healthy fats, fiber and protein. It's also amazing, so who really cares about the health stuff when it tastes this good. It's delicious sprinkled on top of chia pudding, yogurt, toast with almond butter, ice cream, you name it! It's also perfect the way I am eating it right now- by the handful ; )

Makes roughly 3.5 cups

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pepitas
• 1/2 cup coconut flakes
• 1 cup slivered almonds
• 1 cup raw pecans, roughly chopped
• 1 cup raw walnuts, roughly chopped
• 4 tbsp. chia seeds
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp. sea salt
• 3 tbsp. coconut oil
• 1/4 cup maple syrup

Directions:

-Preheat oven to 325 F and line a baking sheet with tin foil. 

-Combine the dry ingredients in a mixing bowl.

-Heat the coconut oil and maple syrup together in a small saucepan and stir. 

-Pour over the dry ingredients and mix around. 

-Spread the mixture on the baking sheet in a thin layer.

-Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the granola begins to turn golden brown and crispy. 

-Remove from oven and let cool completely.

-Store in a mason jar and enjoy!

Recipe (Re)creation: "Healthy" Almond Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

I am on such a cookie kick at the moment. I love finding recipes that are "healthy," fast, and enjoyed by all members of my family. This recipe ticks all the boxes. I stumbled upon the original recipe here and made a few tweeks to fit my tastes.  I just love that these cookies are packed with chia and flax seeds so they are choc full of fiber, protein and healthy fats, but taste perfectly indulgent. I decreased the sweetness of the cookie, but if you like your cookies sweet, then by all means up it 1/2 cup coconut sugar.  I hope you enjoy these cookies as much as my little fam does :)

Makes: 18-20 Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond butter
• 1/3 cup coconut sugar
• 2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp. sea salt
• 2 tbsp. chia seeds
• 2 tbsp. flax seeds
• 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
• Maldon sea salt, for finishing

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 350 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Mix almond butter, coconut sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs in a standing mixer. 
• Mix until well combined. 
• Add the salt, chia seeds, flax seeds, and mini chocolate chips.
• Blend again to combine all ingredients evenly. 
• Scoop spoonfuls of dough into your baking sheet and flatten with your thumb.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bottoms begin to get golden brown.
• Sprinkle the top of each cookie with Maldon sea salt, to taste.
• Allow to cool and transfer to a cooking rack. 
• Enjoy!