Raw Avocado Coconut Nanaimo Bars

There is a new cookbook on my shelf and I'm super excited about it. Rawsome Vegan Baking: An Un-cookbook for Raw, Gluten-Free, Vegan, Beautiful and Sinfully Sweet Cookies, Cakes, Bars & Cupcakes by Emily von Euw is all about sweet treats, all raw, gluten-free and vegan. Covered are old classics ranging from cookies, cakes, bars and cupcakes, pies and tarts, puddings and ice cream with a creative twist. Apart from the stunning and drool inducing photos that adorn each page, I was immediately struck by the unique selections that are essentially guilt-free.

Looking at the photos, you would think eating such decadent looking desserts would lead to a spike in your blood sugar, but in fact, the treats and desserts are actually good for you. Dried and fresh fruits and raw nuts are prominently featured and sweeteners, when they are used, are natural ones, such as maple syrup. Another especially appealing aspect of the book is that pretty much all of the basic ingredients are ones that you are likely to have on hand. No need to hunt around for unfamiliar ingredients that you may only use a few times, leaving them only to languish in the cupboard.

The first recipe I tried was one for raw peanut butter cookies from the multiple ones that I bookmarked. Next up was a this one for raw Nanaimo bars. My usual version of this classic treat is served only rarely on special occasions because they are so decadent. Needless to say, this much healthier version appealed to me. My best friend Basil has been hoping for years that I might come up with a variation that was not so laden with processed sugars, and this was just the right alternative.

I was amazed at how much they actually tasted like the usual custard-filled Nanaimo bar. Creamy avocado is a perfect substitution for custard and the crust, made up of dried fruit and almonds, makes for a perfect cookie-like naturally sweet base. Coconut oil helps bind together the middle layer and the cocoa topping. Sweetened also with maple syrup, you can enjoy this raw rich treat with minimal guilt. These delights literally melt in your mouth. The Nanaimo bars come highly recommended from my kitchen as does this cookbook.

Note: received a copy of this book for possible review. As always, the opinions expressed here are my own.

Other raw treats you are sure to enjoy from Lisa's Vegetarian Kitchen:

Raw Peanut Butter Cookies

Quinoa Nut and Fruit Protein Bars

Cocoa Fruit Energy Bites

Cocoa Almond Brownie Bites