Did you know that the average American eats around 130 pounds of sugar a year? That’s just insane if you think about it!

Believe me there is no shortage of goodies in our house, i’ll even go as far as to say I have a baking addiction, however, my recipes use less sugar than the average desert,
with no complaints from the family.

Over the years I have bought less and less foods that are prepackaged with added sugars, and, on top of that I have vowed not to buy anything with high fructose corn syrup or GMO sugar.

A few years ago I ran across the concept of raw desserts. No sugar, no gluten, and packed with super foods? how could it be? I had to try it, and it was a big hit! Every time I turned around my husband was reaching for more and he would say, “I can’t believe there’s no sugar in this!”

Aside from the fact that there’s no sugar, I’ve served this up to my kids for breakfast…. (and felt good about it). Here’s a few reasons why: they’re eating dates that maintain healthy weight, give strength to the bones, and permit healthy bowel movements. Maple syrup that provides vitamins and minerals, and numerous antioxidants. Nuts are good for heart health, and a great source of minerals. Coconut oil that can boost metabolism, and aid to improve immune function. Raw cacao powder that improves mood, and brain function. That just names  a few. It would take an entire page to list all the benefits. Needless to say, this is packed with things that can benefit your family, and sneak something healthy into your kids- or husband for that matter! You almost wouldn’t call this a dessert ….until you tried it that is.😊

Three Layer Raw Dessert 
Bottom layer

• 3/4 cup pecans or walnuts
• 7 dates
• 1/4 teaspoon ceylon cinnamon
• 1 tbsp whole flax seed
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• Pinch of pink or sea salt

Middle layer

• 8 oz cashew butter
• 1/3 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 tsp ceylon cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/3 cup maple syrup ( honey would work too)
• 1/3 cup raw cacao powder
• 1 tbsp whole flax seed

Top layer

• 2 1/2 tbsp raw cacao powder
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or local honey
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• Pinch pink salt or sea salt
• 2 strawberries for garnish ( optional)

Directions

• In a bullet or food processor, blend all the ingredients for the bottom layer.
• Spoon out into a 9✖️9 inch baking pan. ( a pie dish would also work) press with a spoon or your fingers, until it’s evenly pressed into the  bottom of pan.
• In a clean bullet or food processor, blend all middle layer ingredients until smooth and creamy. With a rubber spatula spread the middle layer evenly over bottom layer. Refrigerate while making top layer.
• In a separate small bowl mix cacao powder, softened coconut oil, sweetener, and salt. Mix with a spoon until it’s creamy and without lumps.
• Spread with spoon or spatula evenly on top.
• Slice strawberries longways in thin slices and place one where each square will be cut.
• Let cool and harden in the refrigerator for a minimum of 15 min.
• Cut into squares and serve!
• *make sure to purchase raw cacao powder not cocoa powder to receive the full benefits!