Stress-Reducing Dark Chocolate Bark
Chocolate is a feel-good food. When we are stressed or feeling low in energy, this is one of the most common foods we crave as it boosts our mood and evokes the same feelings as when you are in love.
Many chocolate bars on supermarket shelves have a high amount of refined sugar, poor-quality oils and artificial ingredients, which can lead to mood disruptions, weight gain and further stress!
When you have a chocolate craving, try this Homemade Dark Chocolate Bark. With simple, wholesome ingredients you can reach for a small piece of this and feel good after.
Homemade Dark Chocolate Bark
Ingredients:
Chocolate
½ cup coconut oil, melted
½ cup cacao powder
¼ cup maple syrup
Toppings
¼ cup almonds, chopped
¼ cup cashews, chopped
¼ cup golden berries
¼ cup mulberries
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven at 300 F.
2. Place almonds and cashews on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 10-12 minutes
3. In a small saucepan, add coconut oil, cacao powder and maple syrup and stir together over low heat until coconut oil is liquid
4. Remove nuts from oven and carefully pour chocolate mix on top
5. Chop golden berries and mulberries and scatter throughout mix
6. Stick into the freezer for 15 minutes or until hardened
*Best stored in freezer.
Stress-Reducing Ingredients
Cacao Powder: contains one of the highest sources of magnesium, which helps to induce calmness and reduce anxiety.
Coconut Oil: the medium chain fatty acids and antioxidants present help to minimize free radical damage from stress.
Almonds: rich in vitamin E and selenium, important for maintaining a healthy immune system during times of stress. A selenium deficiency is associated with depression.
Cashews: contain tryptophan (the same amino acid responsible for mellowing you out after a turkey dinner). Cashews also have B6, which helps you to feel more centered.
Golden berries & mulberries: contain potent antioxidants that help the body to recover from stress.
