Technically, this is candy. However, it is also healthy. How is that possible? Everything in it is high on the list of "good for you" foods. It's got dark chocolate, dried fruit, and raw nuts. Think of it as a kind of trail mix candy. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 bag dark chocolate semi-sweet chips
- assorted raw nuts ( I used walnuts, almonds, pistachios, cashews, pecans, and macadamias)
- assorted dried fruit ( I used apricots, cranberries, coconut, blueberries, and cherries)
Start by melting the chocolate chips in a bowl over simmering water until smooth.
Chop the apricots, coconut, and macadamia nuts into small pieces. I left all the other nuts and fruits whole. Using a tablespoon or small scoop, drop about 3/4 tablespoon of the melted chocolate onto parchment paper and smooth it into a thin disc. Press some fruit and nuts into the soft chocolate. I used 1 kind of nuts and 1 kind of fruit in each piece, but mix and match however you like them. Refrigerate to set.
Aren't they pretty? They are like little jewel bundles. The combinations I used were:
- walnut and cranberry
- pecan and apricot
- macadamia and coconut
- cashew and cherry
- pistachio and blueberry
One of these is like a little energy boost. I eat one before a workout and it helps me make it through without any problem. You could also use it as a reward after a workout. My only suggestion would be not to indulge too much, even though you'll be tempted to do just that.
