Edibles, Essential Oils

Mint and Orange Chocolate Fudge Cups

So, I suppose I could live without chocolate, I’m just not so sure I would wan’t to…? Ok, that is kinda dramatic, but you get the idea. 😉 I LOVE it and people who don’t… well I try to understand! Seriously, I could live off of salads, vegetables, chicken, beef, fish AND dessert! If said dessert contains generous amounts of chocolate, even better! AND if that dessert is kinda, almost, good for you, even better still!

IMG_3866

Something I have learned is that pretty much EVERYTHING is better with essential oils. I made a variation of these Paleo fudge cups a while back and didn’t even think to add essential oils. Such a shame! Yesterday I made two batches, adding peppermint EO to one and orange EO to the other. Delicious!!!

IMG_3923

 Paleo Fudge Cups

  • 1/2 c. coconut oil
  • 1/2 c. raw cocao
  • 1/2 c. almond butter {unsweetened}
  • 1/4 c. maple syrup {or sweetener of your choosing}
  • 1/2 tsp. vanilla
  • 4 drops of peppermint essential oil                                     or
  • 6 drops of orange essential oil

Combine all of the ingredients listed above into a medium sized mixing bowl. Whisk together until smooth and pour into small cupcake liners. Let cups chill and set in the refrigerator. Or to speed things along, put them in the freezer just until set.

IMG_3934

* Young Living Orange { Citrus Sinensis } essential oil has a rich, fruity scent that lifts the spirit while providing a calming influence on the body.  It is rich in the powerful antioxidant d-limonene and aids in maintaining normal cellular regeneration. 
* Peppermint { Mentha piperita } has a strong, clean, fresh, minty aroma.  One of the oldest and most highly regarded herbs for soothing digestion, it may also restore digestive efficiency.  Jean Valnet MD studied peppermint's supportive effect on the liver and respiratory systems.  Other scientists have also researched peppermint's role in improving taste and smell when inhaled.  Dr. William N. Dember of the University of Cincinnati studied peppermint's ability to improve concentration and mental sharpness.  Alan Hirsch MD studied peppermint's ability to directly affect the brain's satiety center, which triggers a sensation of fullness after meals.Be sure to check out the "goods" below. I love Nielsen-Massey vanilla! And a good quality, raw cocao is a must!

You can be certain that 9 times out of 10 my boys are making a food mess right along side me!

As always, I must add that I ONLY use Young Living Essential Oils.  So, their oils are the only ones I recommend.  I feel it is important to mention this because I have heard it estimated that about 98% of the essential oil out there are not safe for consumption.  If you want more information on why Young Living oils ARE safe to consume this is a good place to start {Introduction to Essential Oils}.