Raw Mint Fudge Brownies

We are big mint fans in this family! These were a big hit at our Mother's Day lunch today.

I even got compliments from my Dad who thinks this whole plant-based lifestyle is nonsense!

Note: The mint/coconut layer could be omitted for simply CHOCOLATE FUDGE BROWNIES.

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Raw Mint Fudge Brownies

(Makes 16 brownies)

INGREDIENTS:

CASHEW BASE LAYER:

-1 cup cashews

-2 tsp cacao powder

-8 medjool dates

ALMOND FUDGE LAYER:

-1 cup almonds

-1 cup rolled oats

-3 tsp cacao

-1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

-14 dates

-2 TBSP applesauce

MINT COCONUT TOPPING:

-1 cup unsweetened flaked coconut

-1-2 tsp pure mint extract

-1-2 TBSP maple syrup

-Optional: dash of green food coloring (McCormick now makes plant-based coloring from turmeric and spirulina)

DIRECTIONS:

CASHEW BASE LAYER:

1. Blend cashews and cacao powder to a powder in a high-powered food processor.

2. Add dates to the food processor 2 at a time (to protect motor).

3. Press into an 8x8 baking pan with parchment paper.

ALMOND FUDGE LAYER:

1. Blend almonds, rolled oats and cacoa powder to a powder in a high-powered food processor.

2. Pulse in chocolate chips.

3. Add dates to the food processor 2 at a time (to protect motor).

4. Add applesauce and blend.

5. Press into baking pan with parchment paper on top of the cashew base layer.

MINT COCONUT TOPPING:

1. In a mixing bowl, mix all topping ingredients well.

2. Press into baking pan with parchment paper on top of the almond fudge layer.

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