Foodie Friday: Making Cacao Boost Porridge Squares & Superberries Parfait with Bioglan Superfoods

The Bank Holiday weekend has arrived, and I've teamed up with Bioglan Superfoods to make two of their super easy-to-follow recipes for some tasty healthy treats that you can share with your friends and family.

Superfood Powder Blends

If you follow me on Instagram, you'll know that I love making things like smoothies and baking healthy sweet treats, and you guys know how much I love a good superfood blend! Bioglan Superfoods have an impressive range to choose from, and their superfood powder blends are so versatile and easy to add to any recipe for a big health boost.

They kindly sent me two vegan-friendly blends to try out recently; Cacao Boost and Superberries, and let me tell you - these are delicious!

Bioglan Superfoods Cacao Boost* (70g, £9.99, link)

Cacao Boost is for all you chocolate fans out there. Featuring an organic mix of Cacao Powder, Lucuma Powder, Hemp Protein Powder, and Maca Powder, each 10g serving gives you a good source of Copper, Manganese, and Magnesium, to help reduce tiredness and fatigue. It has a sweet malty, chocolatey caramel flavour so it lends itself well to baking and can be used as a healthy substitute for cocoa powder in things like muffins, brownies and cupcakes. Yum!

Cacao Boost Portable Porridge Squares (makes 12)

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 50g hazelnuts or almonds, chopped
• 375ml almond or oat milk
• 225g oats
• 60ml maple syrup
• 4 tablespoons Bioglan Superfoods Cacao Boost

Method

• Preheat the oven to 180C / Gas Mark 4 and line a baking tray with greaseproof paper.
• Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl until well combined and pour into the tray.
• Place in the oven for 15 minutes until set and allow to cool.
• Once cool, slice into squares - enjoy!

Bioglan Superfoods Superberries* (70g, £9.99, link)

For a fruity treat, you can't beat awesome Superberries. Specially formulated to support your immune system, this blend has a superstar lineup of berries such as Goji, Açai, Blueberry, Acerola Cherry, Strawberry, Redcurrant, Montmorency Cherry, Pomegranate and Bilberry, plus Beetroot for even more antioxidants. Needless to say, each 10g serving contains a whopping 80% of your RDA of Vitamin C and 25% each of Vitamin K, Folic Acid, Magnesium, and Manganese. 

Superberries tastes a little tart which means it's great in smoothies or added to pancake batter and fruity breakfast muffins. You can also try it in this delicious Parfait recipe.

Superberries Parfait (serves 10)

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1.5kg Greek yoghurt or a dairy-free alternative
• 330g frozen mixed berries
• 4 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp Bioglan Superfoods Superberries

Method

• Line a loaf tin with cling film.
• Add the mashed bananas to a large bowl and then stir in the yoghurt with the maple syrup. 
• Add the frozen berries and Superberries powder, stirring until combined.
• Pour into the loaf tin, cover with cling film and freeze for at least 6 hours until set.
• Before serving, leave the parfait out to stand for 15-20 mins, remove from the tin and peel off the cling film.
• Top with fresh berries if desired, slice and serve - enjoy!

Shop the full range of Bioglan Superfoods online at bioglansuperfoods.co.uk

Have you tried any superfood blends?

Follow me on: BlogLovin' | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Read more

Foodie Friday: Tahini, Date & Cacao Energy Balls (Dairy-Free / Vegan recipe) #HealthySnacking

Snacking getting out of hand during lockdown? Whip up a batch of these moreish Tahini, Date & Cacao Energy Balls to keep in the fridge for those emergency snack moments and enjoy a healthy energy boost at the same time!

Energy Balls are something that I've been regularly making at home for a few years now and I absolutely love these naturally nutrient-packed, refined-sugar-free mini snacks. The other joy of making Energy Balls is that you can pretty much conjure up any flavour that you fancy and use any ingredients that you already have in your cupboard (for example check out this Deliciously Ella Cacao & Almond recipe which is a firm favourite in my house). Run out of Cashews? Just swap them for some Almonds - easy!

These Tahini, Date & Cacao Energy Balls have an amazing sweet and salty flavour going on and are a source of plant-based protein, vitamins and antioxidants. They only take 5 minutes to make in a food processor and simply require some chill time in the fridge afterwards - if you can wait that long before tucking in...

Ingredients (makes around 12 balls)

• 12 Medjool Dates (pitted)
• 50g unsalted Cashews
• 2 tbsp Tahini
• 1 tsp Cacao Powder
• Pinch of Sea Salt

Method

• Add all of the ingredients to a food processor and blitz until it forms a paste-like texture that you can hold in your hands. If it feels too sticky, add a little more Cacao Powder and blend again.
• Remove the mixture from the processor and using your hands, make roughly 12 balls from it, rolling each one between your hands or on a clean plate.
• Place the balls on a plate and chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving - enjoy!

Storage tip: Keep the Energy Balls in the fridge in a sealed container for up to a week.

Have you tried making your own Energy Balls at home?

Follow me on: BlogLovin' | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Read more

How To Create A Luxury Spa Experience At Home With Rabot 1745 Beauty #StayHome

Your favourite spa is currently closed but don't worry, it's super easy to recreate a luxury spa experience at home with Rabot 1745 Beauty!

Love at first 'smell' is how I would sum up my recent introduction to Rabot 1745 Beauty. This new-to-me brand is based here in the UK, but is influenced by the sunny Caribbean island of St Lucia where its star ingredient, Cacao, has been farmed since 1745 on their very own Rabot Estate (hence the name!). You'll find cacao at the centre of Rabot 1745's range of products which include skincare, body care, candles, fragrances and more, and given my love for all things remotely chocolate-related, I jumped at the opportunity to try out some of their luxe pampering treats. 

Everything is cruelty-free, paraben-free, and suitable for vegetarians (with many products also vegan-friendly), and I'm impressed with the company's ethics regarding their recycling investment with Plastic Energy. Plus, Rabot 1745 are currently helping the NHS with the #RabotHelpingHands initiative that includes donating hand creams and hand gels to frontline NHS workers which is fantastic to see.

Moving onto the products themselves, here are three easy steps to creating some much-needed personal relaxation time in your bathroom.

Start With Clean Hands

The importance of clean hands has never been clearer and I find that washing your hands thoroughly before a pampering session helps your mind to reset itself, as you shift your focus to the more blissful task of unwinding and closing the door to the outside world. The Cacao & Aloe Hand Wash* is a vegan-friendly cleanser that utilises the natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of Aloe Vera, alongside Cacao Seed Butter to keep hands soft and supple. 

Available to purchase alone or as part of a bundle with their brilliant Cacao & Coconut Hand Cream* - with each Helping Hand Duo bought, Rabot 1745 will donate a 60ml bottle of their brand new Hand Gel to the NHS so it's a good time to stock up (buy yours here). 

Prep With A Body Scrub

One of Rabot 1745's bestsellers are their amazing Body Scrubs which all come packaged in a reusable coffee cup - how awesome is that?! I decided to try the Sugar & Sour Orange Body Scrub* (280ml, £16, link) which has an instantly uplifting citrusy scent that's wonderfully awakening and summery. Made from a blend of plant-based oils such as Sweet Almond, Shea, Argan and Jojoba Seed with pure Sugar and lots of citrus essential oils, this easy-to-use scrub buffs away dull, dead skin cells for a smoother and softer result all-over.

Pamper Yourself In Liquid Chocolate

Body masks are often the pièce de résistance of many a luxury spa experience and the Liquid Chocolate Body Mask* (200ml, £14.95, link) is one of the most indulgent treatments I've ever had the pleasure of testing out at home. This utterly delectable creation does indeed smell like the richest chocolate on earth, and with skin-friendly ingredients such as Kaolin Clay, Coconut Oil, Cocoa Seed Butter and Sweet Almond Oil, it's easy to see why I'm such a fan. 

Smooth it all over, relax for around 10 minutes or so until it feels dry, resist the temptation to lick it off (seriously, it smells so good you'll want to eat it!), and instead rinse with warm water. It'll leave your skin feeling velvety soft and looking glowy and gorgeous - what more could you ask for?!

Shop the full range at rabot1745beauty.com

Are you a fan of chocolate and cacao beauty products?

Follow me on: BlogLovin' | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Read more

Foodie Friday: Healthier Snickers Bars (Vegan, Dairy-Free & Refined Sugar-Free) recipe

For this week's Foodie Friday, I've made a healthier, vegan, refined sugar-free and dairy-free version of one of my favourite childhood chocolate bars - Snickers!

This terrible weather has made me want to raid the cupboard in search of sweet, chocolatey snacks every evening and whilst I don't mind indulging every now and then, it was becoming a little problematic for my weight to be scoffing chocolate bars every single day. My metabolism just isn't what it used to be sadly!

So I decided to try my hand at making a healthier version of a Snickers bar and I'm really pleased by how these have turned out. I tested out a couple of 'raw food' recipes for them that I found online, but in the end, I decided to use roasted nuts as they gave the bars a much more realistic 'Snickers' flavour.

The date caramel on the top layer is just the most amazing thing ever, and even though the bottom layer is made from oats and coconut flour, it's still incredibly satisfying to eat - these really do hit the spot when you have a chocolate bar craving!

P.S: Don't be put off with the list of ingredients and the steps - these are actually VERY easy to make as you're mostly just blending and layering everything together.

Ingredients (makes around 6-8 bars)

For the date caramel layer:

• 10 Medjool Dates
• 75g Peanuts, unsalted roasted or raw
• 2 tbsp Peanut Butter
• 1 tbsp Tahini
• 50ml Coconut Oil, melted
• 40ml Maple Syrup
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
• Pinch of Himalayan Pink Salt

For the oaty base layer:

• 60g Wholegrain Oats
• 40g Coconut Flour
• 2 tbsp Rice Malt Syrup
• 40ml Almond or Cashew Milk
• 1 tbsp Coconut Oil, melted

For the chocolate flavoured coating:

• 100g Cacao Powder
• 200ml Cacao Butter, melted
• 60ml Maple Syrup
• Pinch of Himalayan Pink Salt

Method

• First, discard the pits from the Medjool Dates and add to a bowl. Pour hot water over them and allow to soak for at least 10 minutes to soften up. Drain and set aside.
• Add the Oats and Coconut Flour to a blender or food processor and blitz until you get a fine texture, and then add this to a mixing bowl.
• Next, add the rest of ingredients of the base layer to the mixing bowl - Rice Malt Syrup, Coconut Oil, Salt and Almond Milk, adding the Almond Milk a few tbsp at a time. Mix together with your hands to create a soft dough.
• Press the dough into a lined loaf tin, smoothing out the top and then place in the freezer.

• Now for the caramel layer - add all of the caramel ingredients, except the Peanuts, to a blender and blitz until smooth and creamy. Add a little water if needed.
• Remove the loaf tin from the freezer and carefully spoon the caramel layer on top. Sprinkle in the Peanuts and roughly smooth everything out. Return to the freezer for 3-4 hours.

• For the chocolate coating, melt the Cacao Butter in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water, remove from the heat and sift in the Cacao Powder. Add the Maple Syrup and Salt, and whisk together so that you have a smooth and glossy liquid chocolate.
• Remove the loaf tin from the freezer and lift it out so that you can slice it into 6-8 bars. Dip each bar into the chocolate coating and place on a flat board that will fit into your freezer. Once all the bars are dipped, pop the board back into the freezer to set for 30 minutes.
• Once set, you can store the bars in an airtight tub in the freezer for up to a month - enjoy!

Serving tip: Don't fancy a whole bar? Cut them in half for smaller 'bites' and remove from the freezer to defrost slightly before eating.

Have you made healthier chocolate bars before?

Follow me on: BlogLovin' | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Read more

Health & Lifestyle: Viridian Aronia & Cacao Frappé review #WellnessWednesday

If you're on the lookout for a healthy way to start your day, why not try swapping your coffee for Viridian's new Aronia & Cacao Frappé? The latest launch from the ethical supplements brand, this vegan-friendly drink is easy to prepare, and full of immune-boosting and fatigue-fighting benefits.

What is it?

Viridian's Aronia & Cacao Frappé is a nutritional supplement that comes in a powder format, which is packaged in a recyclable/reusable glass jar. It contains just two ingredients; Aronia Berry and Raw Cacao, so it's suitable for vegans and is free from gluten, wheat, lactose, dairy, soy, added sugar, salt, yeast, preservatives and artificial colourings. Each jar contains 25 servings and each serving gives you 695mg of Raw Cacao (providing 200mg of flavanols), and 505mg of Aronia Berry (providing 200mg of polyphenols). 

What are the benefits?

Aronia Berry is a less familiar superfood than other berries here in the West, but it's been popular with the Native Americans for centuries, and the Mayans were a fan of them too. More commonly known as the Chokeberry or Wild Gooseberry, Aronia berries are native to North America and have a really vivid, dark purple colour which gives the berries their high anthocyanin and antioxidant properties. Rich in Vitamins B, C, K and minerals such as Zinc, Magnesium and Iron, they help to boost the immune system, protect your vital organs (especially the heart, liver and stomach), and research is currently being carried out on their abilities to reduce blood pressure, regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation in the body.

Anyone who is a 'healthy' chocoholic will already know why Raw Cacao is amazing, but to recap, it's the unfermented, non-heat treated form of the cacao seed so it retains all of its wonderful nutrients. Packed full of flavonoids, catechin and epicatechin, Raw Cacao also boasts a high level of antioxidants which protect against cell and tissue damage, and is high in Magnesium, Iron and Calcium.

How do I use it?

To make an Aronia & Cacao Frappé, simply add half a teaspoon to a glass of cold milk or dairy-free milk alternative of your choice. Give it a good stir and enjoy! You can use a frother if you're feeling fancy for an even more indulgent result.

What does it taste like?

I'm used to the flavour of Raw Cacao, but having never tasted Aronia Berry before, I wasn't quite sure what the two combined would taste like. It's definitely more Aronia than Cacao which gives it a somewhat bitter and berry-ish edge, but it's palatable and the more I drink it, the more I've started to like it. I find that it works best with creamier plant milks such as Cashew, Coconut or Macadamia, and you could add a tiny bit of Honey or Agave to sweeten it if necessary.

Overall thoughts?

If you're looking for a new and different healthy start to your day, I think you'll love Viridian's Aronia & Cacao Frappé as it's a nice drink to alternate with the usual Turmeric Lattes and Green Juices to keep things interesting throughout the week. I've noticed that I've been feeling less tired since drinking it which is a massive bonus for a poor sleeper like myself, so if you suffer from fatigue, stress or are feeling run down, you may find this beneficial to your morning routine.

Viridian Aronia & Cacao Frappé* (30g, £30) is available from independent health food stores and online at viridian-nutrition.com

What do you like to drink first thing in the morning?

Follow me on: BlogLovin' | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Read more

Foodie Friday: Creamy Banana & Cacao Pudding (Dairy-Free / Vegan recipe)

I've been having some major chocolate cravings this week and after a quick look in my fridge, I decided to whip up this Creamy Banana & Cacao Pudding which is a tasty way to use up any overripe bananas that you may have laying around. 

This pudding couldn't be simpler to make and if you're into healthy eating, you'll probably have most of the ingredients in your fridge or kitchen cupboard already. If not, you can easily pick them up from any large supermarket and many of the budget discounters such as Aldi and Lidl now stock products like Cacao Powder - just make sure that you buy a 100% raw version that doesn't contain any other ingredients. Alternatively, high street shops like Holland and Barrett and TK Maxx have an excellent selection available, or you can purchase it online.

Cacao Powder is made from unroasted cocoa beans and as a result, retains all of its essential nutrients such as Magnesium and Copper so you get a good health boost from it, as well as a delicious, rich chocolate flavour. Both the Bananas and Avocado in this recipe give the pudding additional vitamins, minerals, and a source of healthy fats for a truly guilt-free dessert to enjoy after dinner. I highly recommend sprinkling over some Pomegranate Seeds and Cacao Nibs for further health benefits, flavour and a yummy crunch!

Ingredients: (makes two standard ramekin-sized puddings)

• 2 overripe fairtrade Bananas
• 1 ripe Avocado
• 200ml Coconut Milk (from a tin)
• 2tbsp Cacao Powder (I used Bioglan)
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 2 tsp Maple or Agave Syrup
• Pomegranate Seeds & Cacao Nibs (optional, to serve)

Method:

• Slice up the Bananas and chop up the Avocado into chunks. Place in a food processor and then add in the Vanilla, Cacao Powder, and Maple/Agave Syrup. Blitz until smooth.
• Give the tin of Coconut Milk a good shake and then measure out 200ml. Switch the food processor back on and pour it in whilst blending. Whizz until you have a thick, creamy and pudding-like consistency.
• Divide the mixture into two ramekins and pop them in the fridge for half an hour if you want them to set a little more, otherwise, sprinkle over some Pomegranate Seeds and Cacao Nibs if using and dig right in! 

Are you a fan of healthy puddings?

Follow me on: BlogLovin' | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Read more