Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup pitted prunes
- 1 cup hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
Special equipment needed:
- Food processor
- 8x8 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
a. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
b. Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
c. In a food processor, pulse the hazelnuts until coarsely chopped.
d. Add the prunes, almond flour, cocoa powder, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and sea salt to the food processor. Pulse until the mixture comes together and forms a sticky dough.
e. Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
f. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the dish.
g. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until set.
h. Let cool completely.
i. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave.
j. Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled prune and hazelnut mixture.
k. Spread the chocolate evenly with a spatula.
l. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
m. Cut into squares and serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15-18 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
5. Temperature:
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Serving size:
Makes 16 squares.
Nutritional information:
Per serving:
Calories: 200
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 40mg
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 11g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use other nuts instead of hazelnuts, such as almonds or walnuts.
- You can use honey instead of maple syrup.
- You can use butter instead of coconut oil.
- You can use milk chocolate or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate.
Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup shredded coconut to the dough mixture.
- Add 1/4 tsp cinnamon to the dough mixture.
- Top the chocolate with chopped nuts or dried fruit.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to roast the hazelnuts to bring out their flavor.
- Use a food processor to make the dough mixture easier to handle.
- Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy removal of the squares.
- Let the chocolate cool slightly before pouring it over the prune and hazelnut mixture.
Storage instructions:
Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
Serve the squares at room temperature.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the squares on a platter and dust with cocoa powder.
Garnishes:
Top the squares with chopped hazelnuts or dried fruit.
Pairings:
Serve the squares with a cup of coffee or tea.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the squares as a dessert after a meal.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water.
- If the chocolate is too thick, add a teaspoon of coconut oil.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to store the squares in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
Prunes and hazelnuts are traditional ingredients in European desserts.
Flavor profiles:
The squares have a rich, chocolatey flavor with a nutty and fruity undertone.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the squares as a snack or dessert.
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