Project Description
Healthy Chocolate-Glazed Doughnut Holes
As a Canadian born and bred, Timbits were a staple at birthday parties, during long car rides, at meetings, and as an accompaniment to my Tim Horton’s coffee. Although small, these little doughnut holes are not the most nutritious snack, and lets be honest, we rarely only eat one at a time.
This version of the classic Timbit is raw, vegan, refined-sugar free, and provides a source of iron, protein, fibre, and magnesium. In addition, raw cocoa contains flavonoids, a type of antioxidant shown to have cardiovascular protective effects and support brain function, amongst other benefits [1].
The perfect bite for when that 3pm sweet craving kicks in, to fuel a workout or promote recovery afterwards, and for just about any occasion.
Ingredients:
(Makes 9 small balls)
Dough:
- 2/3 cup large flake or rolled oats (ensure gluten-free variety if needed)
- 2/3 cup raw cashews (soaking them for a few hours first makes blending easier, but it is not necessary)
- 5 medjool dates, pitted
- ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
- Splash of water (adjust depending on how moist the batter is)
Glaze:
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
Directions:
- To make the dough: line a tray with parchment paper. Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender or food processor until well combined, moist, and thick. Roll into equal sized balls (if it is too sticky, just spoon onto tray, it will harden in the freezer, and then you can roll into balls after), place on tray, and freeze until cold and firm (approx. 20 minutes).
- To make the glaze: melt the coconut oil in a pot over low heat. Whisk in cocoa and vanilla.
- Dip balls into glaze and roll until covered. Freeze again until glaze has hardened. Repeat until glaze is used up.
- Store in fridge.
Nutrition: 140 cal, 7g fat, 3g protein, 2g fibre, 10g sugar
(Note: half of the fat is mono- and polyunsaturated fat (healthy fat) from the cashews; the sugar is naturally found in dates).
Enjoy!
Xo, Nutritious Niks
I can’t take full credit for this recipe, but loved it so much that I had to share. Thanks to thisrawsomeveganlife.com for the inspiration!
[1] Nehlig, A. The neuroprotective effects of cocoa flavanol and its influence on cognitive performance. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2013 Mar; 75(3): 716–727.
