RAW Desserts

Can?t go RAW without a refrigerator

Last weekend I got a visit from the refrigerator angel. His name is Ken and he saved my life, or at least my diet. I found his add on craigslist for a very affordable fridge with a 90 day service guarantee and free delivery! If you or someone you know needs a refrigerator or one serviced, Ken is the guy to call: 323-360-8470. He was so accommodating, kind and courteous. I want to give him more business but one refrigerator is all I need right now. I?ve never owned a major appliance before and I love the responsibility and the power I feel knowing that I now take full ownership for my food storage.



I also take ownership for the cookies I ate despite the fact that I have access to healthy food. I couldn?t help myself. We?ve all said that before. It was like the cookies were calling my name. Even though I don?t do well with gluten, and even knowing I won?t feel good afterwards, I still ate my fare share of chocolate chip cookies while at work.

Perhaps my cookie binge was spawned by a conversation I had with my best friend Kara who told me about the boxes of cookies and brownies she was making for friends and family at home. I missed out because she?s back east. She makes the best chocolate chip cookies in the world! It is also possible that my cookie cravings came after I did some research for an article on the sexiest raw vegan desserts in Santa Monica. Just the thought of something sweet is sometimes all it takes to spark that desire.

In case you?re wondering, here are the top three sexy raw vegan desserts: The Orgazmatron from Raw Planet, Triple Chocolate Explosion from Rawvolution and Chocolate Eclipse from Patisseraw found at Whole Foods. Although I am not a strict vegan or raw foodist, I definitely support these movements. When I eat raw desserts for example, I am easily satisfied with just a few bites. When I eat traditional baked desserts, especially chocolate chip cookies, I eat more than I?d like to admit.

There are typically more refined sugars in baked desserts while raw desserts are primarily made of nuts or avocados and dried fruit or nutritive sweeteners. Although too much of anything, even nutritious foods, can cause weight gain, which is why I appreciate the fact that raw vegan desserts easily please my sweet tooth. These desserts are rich, creamy and so satisfying. Please note; they must be refrigerated after opening. It?s a good thing I have a fridge now because it took me four days to finish one raw vegan dessert.

Who says you can?t have your cake and eat it too? Just choose RAW for better nutrition and portion control.

For some raw vegan options to create on your own, try these creamy delights or get your fix at Rawvolution, Raw Planet or from the raw food section at Whole Foods where they feature Patisseraw.

Raw Vegan Chocolate Mousse

In a food processor combine the following ingredients:
8 pitted medjool dates, soaked
1/4 cup raw maple syrup

1/4 cup water (to add as needed to reach desired consistency)

Blend on high until all ingredients are mixed well. Periodically stop the food processor to scrape the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula in order to ensure all ingredients are mixed well. Add a little water as needed. When all lumps have vanished and the consistency is as smooth as silk, remove mousse from the food processor and place in individual 4 ounce serving bowls. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. Serve with fresh berries and mint.

Vegan Chocolate Mousse (not raw but still healthy)

In a food processor, combine the following ingredients and follow the same steps as above.

10 pitted medjooled dates
12 oz. package of silken soft tofu (~1 cup)
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup almond butter
1/4 cup maple syrup

Per 4 ounce (1/2 cup) serving:
Calories 200
Fat Calories 89
Fat 9g
Sat Fat 2g
Carbs 31g
Fiber 6g
Protein 6g

Significant source of Thiamin, Niacin, Riboflavin, Vitamin E, Calcium, Copper, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorus, Potassium, & Zinc.

Raw Pumpkin Pie

Crust:

Combine all ingredients in a food processor and process to form a cohesive mass. Spread evenly in a pie plate and refrigerate while you prepare the filling.

Filling
2 cups fresh pumpkin, peeled and cut into small chunks