Healthy Cranberry Coconut Candy
This Cranberry Coconut Candy recipe is the perfect treat if you love coconut like I do. I’m obsessed with coconuts, they are my favorite ingredient in desserts and healthy snacks.The world is going coconuts. Following the popularity of coconut water, a broad spectrum of foods derived from the humble coconut are available. It now comes in a variety of forms from water to milk, cream,butter, oil and flour allowing for a variety of creative ways to add coconut to a healthy diet. Coconut contains a unique type of medium chain saturated fat called lauric acid that research shows raises HDL or"good" cholesterol levels, which lowers overall heart disease risk. As a plant food, coconuts also contain disease-fighting phytochemicals or antioxidants. Research suggests that coconut products helps boost metabolism which is helpful if excess body fat needs to be lost. Just one scoop of coconut oil delivers a wide-range of healing properties. Produced in its most natural state, coconut oil will benefit you, your children and your pets. I put some into my dogs dinner regularly.Whether you have chronic fatigue, weight problems, digestive or skin issues,or just want to give your body a good cleanse and boost your energy, coconut in any of its forms is so good for you.People trying to reduce their sugar intake often complain about the lack of sweets in their quest to get healthier. That’s because a low-carb way of eating is very focused on eliminating harmful sugar from your diet. But there are options for that lingering sweet tooth in your life. Hence this healthy candy is both low-carb and packed with healthy fats and antioxidants. Eating more healthy fats is a great way to help satisfying your sweet cravings without the sugar. Not only is this candy insanely delicious and easy to prepare, it also comes with some surprising health benefits. From vitamins and minerals to plenty of healthy fats that support hormone health and neurotransmitter production, these little delights are the perfect addition to any healthy eating plan.These candies are - super rich, uber decadent - but secretly healthy and guilt-free! Yup, that means no butter, no white sugar and no sweetened condensed milk… just pure, fudgy, nutty, chocolatey goodness.The big secret here is that you will be using homemade condensed milk in this recipe, free of the LOADS of sugar in store bought stuff. The facts are… manufacturers take out about 60% of the water from the milk to “condense” it down. After they “condense” the milk, they add about 40% sugar to fill the void from the water. I’m sure you’re asking yourself why the manufacturers do this. Well, the added sugar means the shelf life is longer, plus transporting the milk is easier due to not having to store it in cooler temperatures.Its always about the convenience to them, rather than people’s health.But when you take the time and effort to make your own condensed milk, especially if its from coconut cream to make this delightful candy, you get all the real, natural flavors - no artificial food flavorings here! Each little cube is like a piece of heaven.This cranberry candy is super soft, yet holds its shape long enough for you to pop them in your mouth… where they then melt in your mouth.The recipe for the sugar free homemade condensed milk is below in notes. It really very easy to do and you can keep some in your fridge so its ready to add a dollop on EVERYTHING for a super healthy treat.It will be something you can enjoy regularly as part of a healthy eating plan. Its high in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a form of beneficial fat that can increase energy levels and enhance brain function and many other health benefits. MCTs also help people lose weight by making them feel fuller longer and encouraging fat burning, they also have anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that can boost the immune system and promote healthy skin.Fully customizable too – you can add your own extras like nuts, dried fruit, seeds or other flavours to the 2-ingredient base recipe.One little square makes me happy in an instant. It’s soft, chewy, nutty you are going to love this superfood candy.This recipe is a simple and delicious way to incorporate the amazing health benefits of coconut into your lifestyle, as its bursting with nutrition and good stuff.
Ingredients
- 1 cup condensed milk - store bought or if sugar free preferred, reduce water content down by simmering a 1x 13.5 oz can coconut cream or milk until around 1 cup in volume. Recipe below in notes
- 1 cup white chocolate chips or chocolate bar, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup pistachios, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkle of sea salt
Instructions
- Line an 8 x 8” baking pan or dish with parchment paper on the bottom and sides leaving some overhanging to act as a handle to get the candy out easier for cutting.Melt the ingredients. In a microwave-safe bowl,combine chocolate chips and condensed milk. Microwave in 20-second spurts stirring in between bursts until the chocolate begins to melt.Or use double boiler method - (pot of boiling water with a bowl resting on top) melt the condensed milk and chocolate chips together.Stir frequently, until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is completely smooth, about 10 minutes. Stir in cranberries, pistachios and vanilla extract and pour the mixture into the lined baking pan and smooth out with a spatula or back of a spoon. Place in the freezer to set completely for 1-2 hours or until set, then cut into 1” squares.To store: This coconut candy should be stored in the refrigerator, covered and will keep well for up to 4 weeks.To freeze: Place leftovers in a zip lock bag and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Notes
For the heathy sugar free Condensed Coconut Milk recipe go here: Condensed Coconut Milk
If you are looking for more delicious, healthy, no bake desserts and treats to help you reach your health, wellness and fitness goals, you will love my collection here: Blended Bites
