One of my guilty pleasures…

used to be eating chocolate chip cookie dough off of a spoon.  Who’s with me on this one?

But while eating cookie dough may have made me happy, all that sugar and white flour sure weren’t doing anything in the healthy and hot departments!
Then one day I realized I could duplicate that cookie dough experience with ingredients that are actually doing something for me.  And now I eat cookie dough right off the spoon whenever I feel like it.  It’s still a pleasure…just not a guilty one!

Here’s what I do…I mix roughly equal quantities of cashew butter, coconut oil, and unsweetened shredded coconut together until they are well combined.  Then I throw in some raw cacao nibs for that chocolate taste and a little crunch.
When I’m in the mood for cookie dough, I eat this right off the spoon.  Sometimes I use it as a dip for apple slices.
All of the ingredients add not just flavor, but real nutritional value.

The coconut oil (be sure to use unrefined for the most benefit) is a great source of healthy fats that actually boost your metabolism.  It is rich in medium chain triglycerides, often referred to as MCTs, which are good for your brain.
The cashew butter adds protein and more healthy fat, in addition to great flavor.
The shredded unsweetened coconut has the same benefits as the coconut oil and adds a bit of fiber.
The raw cacao nibs are packed with magnesium and other minerals, as well as a hefty dose of fiber.  They don’t contain much caffeine but I find they still give me a real boost.
This “recipe” has endless variations….
You could sub any other nut butter, or peanut butter, for the cashew butter.  Just look for one that doesn’t have added sugar.
Instead of the raw cacao nibs, you could use actual chocolate chips.  Mini chips would be perfect to get a better distribution of flavor.  Of course this does add some sugar.
You could also mix in some additional ingredients, like chia or hemp seeds, to boost the protein and fiber content a bit.
The consistency will vary, depending on air temperature and the consistency of the nut butter.  If it is too runny, just keep it in the fridge to firm it up a bit.  Or add extra shredded coconut.

So if that cookie dough craving hits, no need for guilt.  Go ahead and grab a spoon!
Notice I said a spoon, not a bowl.  Even though this “dough” is packed with nutrients, it is very rich, and a little goes a long way.  Two tablespoons would be a good serving size.  If you pair it with some sliced apple it is really a great snack.
So here’s the “recipe”….feel free to mix it up however you like!
happy, healthy and hot guiltless cookie dough
1/2 cup cashew butter
1/2 cup unrefined coconut oil
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/4 to 1/2 cup raw cacao nibs
Dump everything in a small bowl, stir till combined.  Store in a sealed container.  None of these ingredients need to be kept cool, but you can store in the fridge if the consistency is too soft.
So, can eating chocolate chip cookie dough right off the spoon help you feel happy, healthy and hot?  Surprisingly, the answer is a big YES!
Of course eating cookie dough will make you happy, because it tastes so amazing and feels so indulgent.  This cookie dough also contains quality fats, protein and fiber to support your health.  Those healthy fats in particular can boost your metabolism and help with weight loss since they keep you satisfied longer.  Oh, and they’re also great for shiny hair and glowing skin.  So yes, you’ll be hot!
SHOP THE POST:
Cashew Butter
Nutiva Coconut Oil…great deal on a two pack!
Shredded Unsweetened Coconut
Raw Cacao Nibs