Now that we’re past the romance of Valentine’s Day, some hearts have been broken. That is, the processed, sugary, artificial ingredient-laden junk shaped like hearts.
A few ladies (and gents) I’ve spoken with recently aren’t too happy with their indulgences of the “holiday”, including the stuff made to look pretty all wrapped in bows. The stuff that only goes to wreck our New Year’s healthy eating resolutions. Which brought up some discussion about sweet treat alternatives, specifically raw desserts. Not just for special occasions, but how does one go about whipping up healthy treats that will satisfy a sweet tooth but won’t result in the obvious dietary adversities? Does such a dream really exist? Can “raw” foods really fill that spot for sinful cravings? And if so, what in the world should I make?
There are absolutely gorgeous photos and equally tantalizing recipes of decadent raw desserts like cookies, cupcakes, cheesecakes, mousses, ice creams, sorbets, tarts, truffles, candies – in books and on the internet. If you didn’t know beforehand what you were looking at, you’d never know they were raw. During my recent discussion with those new to the whole idea of raw food, desserts are not only the most intriguing, but also the most intimidating. And this need not be the case.
I’m a girl who’s never cared much for baking and seldom even made dessert in my pre-raw days. Part of the reason is that the rules of baking can be so darned temperamental, and somehow I just don’t muster up the patience. On the whole, raw food preparation is actually much friendlier than baking or cooking. There’s fewer margins for error, you never have to worry about burning anything, and modifications can easily be made.
{ raw vegan "Black & White Hazelnut Truffles" }
I want to show my readers that with a little creativity, virtually any sweet indulgence can be transformed into a healthy, guilt-free experience. Raw desserts are so incredibly rich and delicious, it’s surprising how even a small portion can be quite filling. Best of all, what a perfect way to show true love to your significant other, your friends, your children, or your family. We all deserve such sweet gifts and pleasures without sacrificing our health, right?
So let’s hear it! What is that one dessert that you absolutely adore, the one that makes you drool as you think of it? That one that you’d never think could be transformed into something without consequence to your diet or your health?
Enter these sinful pleasures in the “comments” area below. The winning entry/suggestion (based on factors such as seasonality, ingredient availability, and originality) will be chosen exactly two weeks from today on Friday, March 5.
Then, on Friday, March 12, the winning entry will be created, photographed and published along with the recipe here on Julie’s Raw Ambition. And, the winner will also receive a goody box of non-perishable raw ingredients from Sunfood.com that are staples for making sweet treats, including Artisana coconut butter, vanilla beans, cacao nibs, and more!
So mark down these dates and get those entries in! I’m looking extremely forward to this experience and having some fun!
<3, JMK
