Cacao is raw chocolate, and is believed to contain more nutrients than cocoa powder because it hasn’t been heated to such high temperatures.
Cacao is a great source of magnesium, which helps our muscles to function properly, reduces tiredness and fatigue, and helps us build muscle.
Makes 12 bars
Base layer
170g dates
150g almonds
3 tbsp maple syrup
2 tbsp cocoa nibs
Chocolate topping
1 tbsp coconut oil
3 heaped tbsp cocoa powder
3 tbsp maple syrup
2 tbsp chia seeds
50g dates
40g almonds
Method
Soak chia seeds in a bowl with 8 tbsp of water and leave aside. Place all the base layer ingredients in a food processor and blend until combined and sticking together. Press the mixture into the bottom of an inch-deep tray.
Next, place all the topping ingredients in the processor with the chia seeds and most of the water then blend until smooth. Stop to taste the mix, and if you like it a bit sweeter add a little more maple syrup.
Scoop the topping out and smear on top of the base layer, then put the tray in the freezer for at least an hour. Once it’s set it’s ready to cut into portions. You can store it in the fridge and it will last a week, or in freezer if you’ve done a big batch.