Lakeland Health Recipes

“These sugar-free chocolate peanut butter cups utilize two ingredients that may offer a nutritional edge: coconut oil and stevia,” said Nicole Morrissey, Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator, Lakeland Health. “Together with peanut butter and fiber-rich cocoa powder, these sweet treats are sinless and delicious!”

Unlike most saturated fats, coconut oil does not pose the same artery-clogging risk, because it is a medium-chain triglyceride. In other words, coconut oil diffuses from the GI tract into the bloodstream without first going through the heart. It is absorbed very quickly, almost effortlessly, by the body. Similar to all fats, however, coconut oil is very high in calories and should be used in moderation and as a part of a balanced diet.

Stevia is the latest sugar-free sweetener to arrive to market. Similar to other sugar substitutes, it is calorie-free and does not increase blood sugar. Many consumers prefer its taste when compared to other sugar substitutes. It is 150 times sweeter than table sugar, so a little bit goes a long way.

Ingredients: (makes 11 cups)

Bottom Layer:
2 Tbsp coconut oil, melted
1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 packets stevia

Top Layer:
2 Tbsp coconut oil, melted
1/4 cup natural smooth peanut butter
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 packet stevia

Directions:
Line a mini muffin tray with 11 paper liners.

Stir all ingredients for the bottom layer together until smooth and divide between the wells (each should be about half full). Put the tray in the freezer on a flat surface and freeze until solid (about 15 minutes).

Meanwhile, stir all ingredients together for the top layer until smooth and divide on top of the set chocolate mixture. Return to the freezer and freeze until solid. Store the treats in the freezer and enjoy.

Nutrition Information (per cup): 116 calories; 11.1 g fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 55 mg sodium; 3.6 g carbohydrate; 1.5 g fiber; 3.2 g protein (0 carb choices per cup or ½ carb choice for 2 cups)