We’ve all heard the wise cracks.

Chocolate cures PMS, heartbreak, depression—the list goes on. Who needs therapy when there is chocolate?

“Forget love, I’d rather fall in chocolate!” ~ Sandra J. Dykes

As some of you already know, there is some truth behind the old wives tales.

There is some debate on the interchangeable terms cocoa vs cacao. But we do know this: chocolate is derived from the seeds of cacao trees. Cocoa solids and cocoa butter are extracted from cacao (or cocoa) beans.

These tiny beans contain great awesomeness.

Chocolate is even referred to it as a superfood because of the many health benefits. Cacao contains a variety of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and natural energy boosters such as caffeine and theobromine.

But, there’s a catch.

It all goes downhill once these delicious, beautiful, raw beans are overly processed and mixed with high fructose corn syrup, hormone infused milk solids, hydrogenated oils and don’t get me started on PGPR (ick! look it up).

Let’s be real, is it even chocolate anymore?

Make your own Chocolate!

It’s so easy, delicious and healthy. This recipe is versatile—mix it up to suit your taste.

½ c almond butter
¼ c ground cacao nibs (I grind mine in a coffee grinder)
¼ c coconut oil
¼ c agave syrup (or sweetener choice)
¼ c seeds/ chopped nuts (I use sesame and chia)
¼ c oats

Mix it all together in a bowl, adjust thickness with oats or almond flour to roll into balls or spread onto wax paper lined tray.

Place in freezer to set.

Enjoy!
Important note: Any leftovers (if there is such a sin) must stay chilled—coconut oil melts easily.

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Editor: Ashleigh Hitchcock

Photo: flickr, chesskid