Chocolate Caramel Cookie Bars

Chocolate is literally an addictive food. When you eat chocolate, serotonin is released in your brain putting you in a better mood. Its the most craved food amongst women and pretty high up there for men too. Do you notice that you crave chocolate more when the weather is awful and you've been stuck inside? Or when you're PMSing? Or just plain sad? Your body knows that chocolate will release serotonin. Plus it's delicious. So there you go. Who doesn't want to be happier? Chocolate is great. But most of the chocolate bars you find in stores contain tons of sugar, lots of fat, and are piled high with garbage ingredients. Not so good. This will give you a sugar high, then leave you tired. You'll gain weight. You'll fill your body with chemicals. Luckily- there is an easy alternative: cocao. Cocao is still high in calories (bit not sugar) and should be eaten in moderation, but its a whole lot better than a Hershey bar.

Cocao is high in fiber which is great for your digestive regulation. Polyphenols aid in cardiovascular health, serving as antioxidants and keeping the arteries leading to your heart and brain healthy. It can also lower your LDL or "bad cholesterol". The polyphenols and fiber mixed together can regulate blood pressure and glucose levels. Flavonoids can interfere with the development of cancer and improve conditions in those already suffering from cancer. Those are all great reasons to add some cocao to your diet.

My latest way to use cocao:

Chocolate Caramel Cookie Bars

(Raw, vegan, gluten free)

Cookie Layer:
1 cup raw Cashews
1/4 cup raw Honey
sprinkling of Salt (to taste)

Pour all ingredients into food processor and mix until fairly smooth (it will still be a little coarse). Spread in the bottom of a greased 9x9 baking dish- I suggest greasing your fingers, it will be sticky. Place in the refrigerator while you prep the next layer.

Caramel Layer:
4 tablespoons Peanut butter
1 cup pitted Dates
4 tablespoons water

Pour all ingredients into food processor and mix until thick and smooth. Spread over cookie layer- I suggest greasing your fingers, it will be sticky. Place in the refrigerator while you prep the next layer.

Chocolate Layer:
3 tablespoons Coconut Oil (melted and cooled)
3 tablespoons raw Honey
4 tablespoons Cocao Powder
2 tablespoons water

Stir until combined. Pour over caramel layer. Place in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes.

Enjoy! This is really yummy and pretty good for you. Depending on the peanut butter you use, it will unprocessed, low in sodium, and all healthy sugars and fats. Plus its packed with nutrients and protein.

*Keep refrigerated.