Organic Digest VOL1. Issue1 Jun. 2014 | Page 21

With the end of the school year only days away, we parents have to prepare for the increased kitchen traffic that comes with Summer Break. I remember this being the time of year - when I was growing up - where there would be a pantry full of “treats” and a freezer and refrigerator filled with pops, juices, ice cream, fruits, pies, you name it. I must say that summer had to be my favorite time of the year. Now as a mom, I try to carry on the tradition and ensure that I’m fully prepared for the increased kitchen traffic. The difference for me though, is that I have decided to be very selective on what sweet treats my children Chocolate Covered Vegan Banana Pops If you love bananas, you’ll love this! The chocolate is a bonus. enjoy over their holiday. In fact, I even make most of the goodies, which gives me an increased confidence in what they are getting into their bodies, and what they’re not. As summer break is fast approaching, I have been skimming through some of last year’s hit recipes. They for sure will be repeats! I had to share 3 of my favs that are quick, easy, healthy and delicious!! Say goodbye to added sugar, high fructose corn syrup, additives, preservatives, and all the unnecessaries. I always believed, less is more :) Your kitchen traffic will thank you. Ingredients 5 large bananas cut in half and put on skewer sticks (or as many bananas as you like, just make sure increase the other ingredients to proportion) ¼ cup of crushed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans, whichever you prefer) ½ cup shredded coconut ¾ cup medjool dates (previously soaked in 1 cup of warm water for minimum 1 hr) ¼ cup melted coconut oil 1 tablespoon almond/cashew butter ¼ cup of raw cacao powder ½ tablespoon sea salt Directions Place bananas on skewer sticks and position on parchment lined baking sheets to pre freeze up to 2 hrs before (this is not absolutely necessary, but beneficial); Place soaked dates with water, oil, butter, powder and salt into blender and blend until smooth; Pour chocolate sauce into bowl and begin dipping banana sticks to cover with sauce. It may get messy, but try to cover as much of the banana as possible with chocolate sauce. We’re almost done! Now take your coconut shreds and crushed nut toppings and sprinkle as desired over bananas; Place bananas back on baking sheet and slide into the freezer. An hour or so later (depending on temperature of your freezer) go and enjoy a chocolate covered vegan banana pop… and don’t forget to share the joy too! **NOTE THAT YOU DO NOT WANT TO COMPLETELY FREEZE THE BANANA POPS WHERE YOU’RE UNABLE TO BITE INTO THEM ;)