Introducing our innovative and delectable Chickpea Apple Pie, a vegan and gluten-free dessert that combines the wholesome goodness of chickpeas and fresh apples. This pie is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a dessert you can feel good about indulging in. Chickpeas, a key ingredient in this recipe, are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, both of which support digestive health and help you feel full longer. They also contain important vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and folate, making them a valuable addition to any diet.

Paired with the natural sweetness and tartness of apples, which are rich in dietary fiber and vitamin C, this pie becomes a nutritious treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

The creamy coconut milk or cream adds a rich, velvety texture, while the touch of vanilla and maple syrup enhances the flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you serve it as is or pair it with your favorite dairy-free ice cream, this Chickpea Apple Pie is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

This pie is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients that are both delicious and beneficial to your health. So go ahead, enjoy this guilt-free treat that’s as nourishing as it is tasty!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (100 g) raw dried chickpeas
• 250 g apples (1 1/2 large-sized apples)
• 400 ml (1 can) coconut milk or cream
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or your sweetener of choice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp coconut oil or your oil of choice
• Extra apple slices for decoration (~150 g, optional)

Directions

1. Begin by soaking raw dried chickpeas overnight. Rinse them thoroughly the next day, ensuring all the soaking water is strained out. Set aside.
2. Clean and cut the apples into large chunks.
3. Transfer the rinsed soaked chickpeas and the apple chunks into a blender.
4. Add coconut milk or cream, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the blender.
5. Blend the ingredients until you achieve a creamy and smooth consistency.
6. Add coconut oil into the mixture and blend briefly to ensure even distribution.
7. Brush a circular baking pan with oil and line it with parchment paper.
8. Pour the creamy batter into the prepared baking pan.
9. Insert extra apple slices into the batter to create a traditional apple pie design.
10. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
11. Allow the pie to cool completely before transferring it to the refrigerator for 3 to 4 hours, or until it achieves a hardened texture reminiscent of an egg pie.

Prep Time: Soaking Overnight, 20 minutes Prep
Baking Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Nutritional Information
Per 1 Serving:

• Energy: 357 calories
• Protein: 5.42 g
• Fat: 24.73 g
• Carbohydrates: 33.02 g
• Fiber: 5.4 g

Storage and Recommendations

• Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to a week.
• Enjoy your delectable creation as is, or pair it with your favorite vegan ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Satisfying your sweet tooth while staying healthy can be a challenge, but these Apricot Walnut Treats make it easy. These delightful bites combine the rich, earthy flavors of walnuts with the sweet and tangy taste of dried apricots, all enveloped in smooth dark chocolate. Perfect for a quick snack, dessert, or even a homemade gift, these treats are as versatile as they are delicious.

Let’s talk about the nutritional benefits of the key ingredients in this recipe. Dried apricots are a fantastic source of vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function. They are also rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Apricots are packed with antioxidants, which protect your cells from damage and reduce inflammation, contributing to overall health.

Walnuts, on the other hand, are one of the best plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart health benefits. Omega-3s help reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and bad cholesterol levels. Walnuts are also rich in antioxidants, which support brain health and can help prevent age-related cognitive decline. Combined with dark chocolate, which is known for its antioxidant properties and ability to improve mood, these treats offer not just a delicious flavor combination but also a boost to your well-being.

Ingredients

• 90 g dark chocolate
• 65 g dried apricots (or 10 units)
• 30 g raw walnut halves (10 halves)

Directions

1. Melt the dark chocolate using a double boiler or a microwave until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Place parchment paper on a flat surface.
3. Using the solid side of a water glass, gently press each dried apricot to flatten and widen it, creating a larger circular surface.
4. Once all apricots are flattened, place one in each chocolate mold as the first layer.
5. Take walnut halves and place one on top of each dried apricot, pressing gently to insert it into the apricot, creating the middle layer.
6. Drizzle approximately 1 teaspoon of melted dark chocolate over each walnut and dried apricot to complete the top layer, ensuring even coverage.
7. Transfer the chocolate molds to the fridge and let them set for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
8. Once set, carefully remove the chocolates from the molds.
9. Indulge in this delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes in the fridge
Servings: 10

Nutritional Information
Per 1 Serving:

• Energy: 89 calories
• Protein: 1.38 g
• Fat: 5.83 g
• Carbohydrates: 8.61 g
• Fiber: 1.7 g

Storage and Recommendations

• Store these treats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts or dried fruits. Almonds, pecans, or dried prunes or cranberries could be delicious alternatives.

If you’re searching for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious snack, this Pumpkin Seed Crunch is about to become your new favorite treat. With just two simple ingredients, pumpkin seeds and maple syrup, you can create a sweet and satisfying snack that’s ready in no time. The earthy flavor of pumpkin seeds pairs beautifully with the rich sweetness of maple syrup, making this snack both nourishing and indulgent.

Pumpkin seeds are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc. These tiny seeds are especially beneficial for heart health due to their high content of healthy fats, which help to lower bad cholesterol levels. Magnesium is vital for maintaining healthy bones and regulating muscle and nerve function, while zinc supports immune function and helps in wound healing. Including pumpkin seeds in your diet can also contribute to better sleep, thanks to their high levels of tryptophan, an amino acid that your body converts into serotonin, promoting relaxation and restful sleep.

This Pumpkin Seed Crunch not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a host of health benefits. It’s a perfect snack for any time of day, whether you need a quick energy boost or a sweet finish to your meal. For an extra touch of indulgence, consider drizzling melted white or dark chocolate over the crunches after they’ve cooled.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (130 g) raw pumpkin seeds
• 3 tbsp. maple syrup
• Pinch of kosher salt (optional)
• 60 g white or dark chocolate of your choice for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin seeds with maple syrup. Add a pinch of kosher salt if desired for added flavor.
3. Using a fork, stir well to coat each pumpkin seed with maple syrup. You will get a sticky mixture.
4. Spoon equal amounts of the mixture and transfer to cupcake silicone (to avoid sticking) cups or other good quality cupcake liners of your choice. Press gently with the back of a spoon to distribute the seeds evenly.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pumpkin seed crunches are golden brown and fragrant to your liking.
6. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely. This step is crucial for the crunches to hold together.
7. Optional: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled pumpkin seed crunches for an extra deliciousness and a nice finish.
8. Serve and enjoy your delightful treat as a healthy and nutritious snack!

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8

Nutritional Information
Per 1 Serving:

• Energy: 155 calories
• Protein: 3.82 g
• Fat: 10.77 g
• Carbohydrates: 12.72 g
• Fiber: 1.4 g

Storage and Recommendations

• Store these crunches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Enjoy these crunches as a quick snack, a dessert, or a topping for yogurt or salads.