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5 Healthy Sugar Alternatives + Hazelnut Cacao Tart Recipe

natural sugars
Ian O'Leary / Getty Images/Dorling Kindersley
 
We all grew up eating spoonfuls of sugar not having any idea how it was affecting our bodies. A childhood without sugar is one without happiness but as we grow older, we start to become aware of the negative effects it has on our mind and body. Ever feel brain fog or tired and in a slump? Yup- it's probably the over consumption of sugar.
 
We all know we should all cut down on sugar, but that doesn't mean we have to cut it out entirely. All sugars are not created equally and we love to use healthy alternatives in place of refined sugars. We're sharing our top 5 healthy sugar alternatives below along with a Raw Vegan Hazelnut Cacao Tart recipe by @katherineclairexx. Of course, the recipe has no refined sugars and is gluten free as well.
 

  1. 100% Pure Maple Syrup

Pure maple syrup (none of that shelf-stable stuff) is filled with minerals and antioxidants that can reduce inflammation, strengthen your immune system and improve heart health. We love Grade B (dark in color) as it contains much more antioxidants that it's lighter counterparts and has a deep robust flavor.

*We recommend Parker's Real Maple Syrup.

  1. Raw Honey

Raw honey is rich in enzymes, minerals and antioxidants. The darker the honey, the more antioxidants it contains. There are also amino acids that can help with relaxation and lower blood pressure. Fun fact: raw honey never expires!  

*We recommend Beekeeper's Naturals Honey.

  1. Coconut Sugar

As an unrefined sweetener low on the glycemic index (35), coconut sugar is absorbed much slower by the body which results in sustained energy without the crash that refined sugar gives. It is also full of vitamins and minerals such as magnesium and potassium, and contains a prebiotic fiber called inulin, which aids the growth of beneficial bacteria in your gut.

*We recommend Madhava Organic Coconut Sugar.

  1. Medjool Dates / Date Nectar

Dates are high in fiber, potassium and contain several daily recommended vitamins and minerals. Not only can it aid in digestion, dates can also regulate blood pressure, boost metabolism, reduce cholesterol levels and improve bone density. These are pretty much just dried fruit that does wonders in desserts! (Recipe Below)

*We recommend Terrasoul Medjool Dates and D'vash Organics Date Nectar.

  1. Blackstrap Molasses

This sticky, dark syrup is high in iron, manganese, magnesium, calcium and vitamin b6. It’s amazing for your blood and strengthens your bones. Blackstrap molasses contains the highest amount of antioxidants than any other sweetener and bonus, it tastes like the holidays!

*We recommend Wholesome Sweeteners Organic Molasses.

 

raw vegan hazelnut cacao tartraw vegan hazelnut cacao tarts

Raw Vegan Hazelnut Cacao Tarts

Recipe by @katherineclairexx
(Yields 8-10 tarts)

Base:

Filling:

  • 3 heaped Tbsp coconut butter

  • 3 heaped Tbsp cacao powder

  • 2 Tbsp coconut sugar

  • 1/2 cup hazelnuts

  • 4 Tbsp cashew mylk (or any other plant-based mylk)

Directions:

  1. Blend together the base ingredients until a sticky base is formed
  2. Lightly grease tart pans and evenly divide and spread the mixture
  3. Stick in the freezer for 15 minutes to set
  4. For the filling, blend together the filling ingredients until a thick, smooth consistency is reached
  5. Remove the tart bases from the freezer and fill each tart evenly
  6. (Optional) top with coconut flakes and chopped hazelnuts
  7. Freeze for an additional 15-20 minutes

*Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for longer.

Make sure to hashtag #MylkLabs and #NutsForOats to be featured. Enjoy!

raw vegan hazelnut cacao tarts