In all probability you’ve likely enjoyed numerous cream pies throughout your lifetime including the luscious, delicious banana cream pie.

But, have you ever enjoyed Banana Cream Pie that offers health benefits? Your answer is probably no because back in the days that our grandmothers and moms were creating these delicious desserts, the focus was not on how healthy they are but more focused on flavor and texture.

Those times have passed. These days veggies are being invited into all kinds of dessert recipes to shift them from “empty calories” to calories with benefits and this version of Banana Cream Pie includes green leaves (either spinach, Swiss chard or kale).

Add to that an assortment of super healthy nuts and seeds and you’ve got the formula that will satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth and boost their health at the same time.

It really doesn’t get any better than that.

BANANA CREAM PIE (With Hidden Benefits)

BASE:

1 cup almonds

½ cup seeds, any mix of the following – pumpkin, sunflower, sesame, hemp

1 cup dates, soaked at least 30 minutes drained

½ cup desiccated coconut

2 cups green leaves (spinach, Swiss chard, kale) fresh or frozen

1 teaspoon cinnamon

DIRECTIONS:

Please almonds in food processor and process until broken down and crumbly. Add all other ingredients and process until well combined. Press into the base of a spring form tin or pan.

BANANA CHIA FILLING:

1 cup cashews

½ cup Chia seeds, pre-soaked in ¾ cup water for 10 minutes

3-4 ripe bananas

1 cup desiccated coconut

2 tablespoons honey

½ cup coconut oil, warmed until liquid

DIRECTIONS:

Place cashews into a food processor and process until broken down and crumbly.

Add all other ingredients and process until well combined and smooth.

Spoon out on top of base and place in fridge or freezer while you make the topping.

SALTED CARAMEL TOPPING:

1 cup macadamia nuts

1 cup dates, soaked at least 30 minutes and drained

¼ cup coconut oil, warmed until liquid

1 teaspoon vanilla essence

¼ cup water

DIRECTIONS:

Place macadamia nuts into food processor and process until broken down and crumbly.

Add all other ingredients and process until smooth and creamy.

Add a little more water if needed…a tablespoon at a time to allow mixture to blend together into a pourable sauce.

Pour over filling and smooth out.

COCONUT WHIPPED CREAM:

1x 14oz can full fat coconut milk or cream

1-2 tablespoons honey

For more delicious veggie based dessert and treat recipes visit: “Blended Bites” You’ll be surprised what you can do with veggies.