Healthy Almond Flour Biscotti with Dark Chocolate

Picture this: You've just come home from a busy day and you're ready for a bit of an afternoon pick-me-up. You fancy something sweet to pair with your freshly brewed cup of coffee, but you also want to keep things on the healthier side.

So, what should you reach for? A homemade almond flour biscotti with dark chocolate! Not only will it satisfy your sweet tooth, but it also packs a health punch with nutrient-dense ingredients and offers mental health benefits. It's perfect for those seeking to keep their health in check while indulging in a sweet treat.

Recipe for Almond Flour Biscotti with Dark Chocolate:

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups blanched almond flour

• 1/2 cup raw honey or a sweetener of your choice like Stevia

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

• 1 cup toasted sliced almonds

• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

• 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cacao or more)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine almond flour, sweetener, baking soda, and sea salt.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract.

4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing well until a dough forms.

5. Fold in the toasted sliced almonds.

6. Shape the dough into a long, flat log on your baking sheet. The log should be about 12 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.

7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes.

8. Once cool, cut the log into 1/2 inch thick slices using a serrated knife.

9. Lay each slice flat on the baking sheet and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until crispy.

10. Meanwhile, melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds to prevent burning.

11. Once the biscotti have cooled, dip one side of each slice into the melted dark chocolate. Allow the chocolate to harden before serving.

The Mental Health Benefits:

Beyond being a healthier version of a classic treat, these biscotti can also give your mental health a boost. Almond flour is packed with vitamin E and magnesium, which are known to promote brain health. Dark chocolate, particularly versions with 70% cacao or more, is rich in antioxidants, known to reduce inflammation and improve brain function.

Moreover, the act of baking can be therapeutic and serve as a form of stress relief. Many people find the process of mixing ingredients and creating something delicious to be a mindful activity that helps to take their minds off of their worries.

Indulging in this treat in moderation can also promote a positive relationship with food. Allowing yourself to enjoy something sweet, even when maintaining a healthier lifestyle, can contribute to a more balanced mindset and prevent feelings of deprivation or guilt that can sometimes accompany strict dieting.

Enjoy this recipe not only for its taste but for the mental health benefits it provides. Now you can have your biscotti and eat it too, without any of the guilt. Bon Appétit!