Carob-Coconut Sweeties

Makes 4–5 balls.

Ingredients:

1 heaping Tbsp (20 ml) smooth natural almond butter
1 heaping Tbsp (20 ml) tahini (sesame paste)
2 level tsp (10 ml) carob powder (sift if lumpy) pinch salt
2 tsp (10 ml) finely ground chia seeds
8-10 drops plain or vanilla stevia liquid
1 tsp (5 ml) pure vanilla extract (optional) heaping
1/4 cup (65-70 ml) unsweetened, dried shredded coconut
1 Tbsp (15 ml) hemp seeds (or hemp nuts), optional

In a small food processor or mini processor, blend the almond butter, tahini, carob powder, salt and chia until you have a smooth paste. Add the stevia and vanilla, if using, and whir again to blend. Add the coconut and hemp seeds and pulse until evenly distributed. Scoop the mixture by teaspoonfuls and roll into balls. Refrigerate (or freeze) 20 minutes or more to allow the mixture to firm up a bit. (If you can’t wait to dig in, they’re still delicious right away, but they will be fairly soft).

recipe contributed by Ricki Heller