Have you tried avocado pudding yet? It is truly one of the greatest creations I have ever discovered. A friend first served it at a dinner party and I shamelessly devoured the leftovers without sharing. It is THAT GOOD!

If you have yet to discover this simple and healthy delicacy, here you go. It’s a staple in my kitchen because it meets all the parameters – sugar, dairy and gluten free – and is very easy to make. You’ll find a variety of recipes online offering an array of sweetener options, but I enjoy mine truly sugar-free with stevia.

Ingredients: (serves 2-4)

2 ripe avocados
4 heaping tablespoons of raw cocoa powder
½ teaspoon of sea salt
2 teaspoons of organic vanilla extract
½ cup of unsweetened coconut milk
(or non-dairy milk of choice)

Sweetener of choice: Type and measurement of sweetener really is a personal preference, so play with it. I use 2 droppers of liquid vanilla stevia, but recommend adding stevia slowly to taste. Other natural options include maple syrup (2-3 tablespoons), monk fruit, honey or chopped dates.

Extras to spice it up: add a handful of coconut flakes, teaspoon of espresso powder, chopped nuts, fresh mint or even a dash of cayenne pepper!

Directions:

Place all ingredients together and blend until smooth and creamy. I find it easiest to use a hand (or immersion) blender and bowl, but a standard blender works as well. For best results (if you can wait that long!) place pudding in refrigerator for one hour.

Serve straight up or top with whipped coconut cream, berries or fruit. My favorite is to leave a pint of So Delicious No Sugar Added Vanilla Bean Coconut Milk ice cream out until it gets nice and soft and then scoop it into the pudding for an irresistible chocolate vanilla pairing!

Enjoy! Share your favorite additions and toppers with us online. Search ‘avocado pudding’ at www.DesertHealthNews.com