Cacoa powder is not the same as cocoa powder. Raw cacao is made from cold-pressed unroasted cocoa beans. This keeps the living enzymes in the cocoa beans, providing many health benefits. The common cocoa powder in grocery stores is this same raw cacao – but has been roasted at very high temperatures, thereby depleting it of its natural enzymes and high mineral and vitamin content. The unprocessed (unfrosted) raw cacao is also high in fibre, antioxidants and magnesium that promotes heart and is essential for proper brain functioning. Tryptophan and anandamide are other brain-boosting minerals found in cacao.

 

Raw Cacao Powder Homemade Chocolate

1/2 cup coconut oil or coconut butter (measured as a liquid, so warm it up first)
1/2 cup raw cacao powder
1-2 tbsp organic honey
a pinch of sea salt

You can also add in either 1/4 tsp of mint extract, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or 2 tbsp of instant coffee – for different flavours of chocolate.

Over low heat on the stove (or microwave) whisk and blend together coconut oil, cacao powder and honey. Remove from heat and add in any extras. Once smooth, pour into either rubber molds or onto a parchment paper lined tray in a thin layer.

Place in fridge or freezer for 1 or more hours to fully cool and harden. Remove from molds, or break apart into smaller pieces if you used a flat pan, store in freezer (they will melt if left too long at room temperature).

Voila! Clean chocolate that fulfills the sweet tooth without clogging up the body and causing toxic sugar-induced inflammation.