Mint chocolate chip coconut butter bites

I've cut out the grains and sugar. I find it the best way to stay lean and strong without being hungry. But what is a PMSing girl to do when only chocolate will take the monster?



Enter coconut butter. This is one of my favorite recipes--reminiscent of mint chocolate chip ice cream. And it's fairly simple, once you master the art of coconut butter.  This is really satisfying without refined sugar or grains.  It feels like it shouldn't be diet friendly!



Ingredients:

1 package unsweetened shredded coconut (organic if you can find it)



Handful of cacao nibs (found at whole foods)

2 tablespoons organic expeller pressed coconut oil. 


2-3 drops peppermint extract



Dump the coconut into your food processor.  Add coconut oil.  (If you have coconut flakes, you may not need oil, or may need less).  Prepare to pulse it for a long time.  I have ADHD.  I find it's best to work on other things while it's pulsing so I don't get too bored.  Let it run for a few minutes and then scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula.   It starts to chunk up (see pic).  Run it again and stop and scrape down the sides.  You may be doing this for 15 minutes.


Your coconut will soon start to take on a butter-like consistency.  This is the base for many desserts, and a guilt-free treat all on its own.  


Once it becomes butter, add your drops of peppermint extract.  Puree it for about 30 seconds to blend.  Then remove the blade from your food processor and stir in the cacao nibs.


Line a mini-muffin pan with paper cups.  Fill each cup with the coconut butter mix.  Pop into the freezer for 30 minutes to solidify.  And then, dessert is done!  You will not have to harm anyone due to your cravings :)