Gluten Free Sweet Potato Brownies

It’s been way too long since my last post, but I’m back and I promise this recipe will totally redeem my absence.
Whenever I come across a tried, tested and truly delicious recipe that fits my low sugar, gluten + dairy free lifestyle, I feel compelled to share it with the world. I recently made these for the guests at my annual yoga retreat which left everyone pining for the recipe. These brownies are so chocolate-y and moist yet they actually spoil your body as well as your taste buds. Let’s look at some of the key ingredients and their many health benefits:

Sweet potatoes– lower and stabilize blood sugar, high in fiber as well as vitamins A, B6, C and D. they also contain iron and support a healthy immune system. Yogi’s will like that these sweet spuds also contain magnesium which is the relaxation and anti-stress mineral.

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Coconut oil– This oil is special because it contains medium chain triglycerides which is a quick energy source and has therapeutic effects on the brain. This unique fat is metabolized differently than other fats and actually helps you burn more fat. It is antimicrobial, anti viral and anti fungal. It also improves blood cholesterol levels.

Cocoa– It’s nice to know something so good is also good for you. Cocoa contains flavonoids which improve blood flow, blood pressure and heart health. It is also has 3 times more antioxidants than green tea which keeps your cells young and healthy.

Honey– Like cocoa, contains flavonoids and antioxidants which help prevent heart disease. Antibacterial and anti-fungal similar to coconut oil, Most interestingly, honey can increase athletic performance when ingested before sport activity because it is superior in maintaining glycogen levels and improving recovery time.

Cinnamon– Highly anti-inflammatory, this spice does all kind of good stuff to our bodies. Effective at relieving arthritis symptoms, it also boosts cognitive function and prevents cancer cell formation. High in manganese, fiber, calcium and iron.
As if you needed any more convincing to try these! Hopefully this list of some of the beneficial ingredients alleviates any guilt you might normally feel from indulging in a decadent dessert. Seriously, these are so good for you and knowing what a good energy source they are I sometimes even have them for breakfast before heading out for a run or just to fuel a busy day.

So from my ‘new’ I Love Lucy kitchen to yours, here is the recipe…

Sweet Potato Brownies

Yields 20 (I usually double this)

2 cups baked and cooled sweet potato
1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 cup cocoa
1/4 cup coconut flour
1/4 cup honey
1/8 cup almond milk
1/8 cup cacao nibs (optional)
1 tsp. cinnamon
1tsp. vanilla
1 egg
lightly whisked
1/2 tsp. baking soda

Preheat oven to 400 degrees, line 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease with coconut oil and set aside.

In large bowl, mix together sweet potato, coconut oil, honey, almond milk, vanilla and the egg. Set aside.

In a medium bowl, combine cocoa, coconut flour, cacao nibs, cinnamon and baking soda. Make sure all ingredients thoroughly mixed.

Add cocoa ingredients to the wet ingredients. Blend thoroughly and pour into pan. Bake for 28-30 minutes.

Enjoy and remember to share!