Gluten Free Chocolate Treats

This year we welcome you try something different to surprise your loved ones with.  Instead of the boxed chocolates, candy kisses and candy hearts with "Be Mine" on them, try a home made card and these delicious chocolate treats!  The best way to show someone you love them is to put thought and time into what you give.  Show the special people in your life how much you love them with homemade Valentines this year!  

These Chocolate Treats also make wonderful birthday cake substitutes that are Gluten Free!!

Ingredients:

1/2 cup raw, unsalted almonds, soaked and skins removed
2 Tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut
2 Tbsp whole flaxseeds, soaked
1 cup whole rolled dry oats
1/2 cup packed Medjool dates, pitted
1/2 cup organic raisins
4 Tbsp unsweetened cacao or cocoa powder
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp honey
Dash of sea salt

Directions:

1. Combine almonds, flaxseeds, coconut and oats in a food processor.  Process until well combined.

2. Add dates, raisins, cacao or cocoa powder, honey, cinnamon and sea salt.  Continue to process until all ingredients are thoroughly blended.

3. Transfer mixture to a medium size bowl.  Using clean, bare hands, mold mixture into a ball approximately 1 1/2 inch in diameter. Continue molding ball into the shape of a heart.  Repeat process until entire mixture is utilized.

4. Lightly dust each treat with cacao or cocoa powder before serving.

Tips:

To improve their ability to be digested, soak flaxseeds and raw unsalted almonds separately in clean, pure water for at least 6 hours or overnight.  Specifically, place seeds and nuts in glass jars.  Cover nuts and seeds with 2:3 ratio of water.  Cover jars with lids while soaking.  Drain the water after soaking and the nuts are ready to use.  You will not need to drain the water from the flaxseeds.  Soaked almonds can easily be peeled with the fingers.