Mocha Dusted Almonds: A Satisfying, Chocolatey Snack

Satisfying snacks should be around 150 to 250 calories and contain a mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. These mocha dusted almonds provide all three for the ultimate delicious snack that will stick with you until your next meal. The coffee flavor enhances the cocoa to give you a deep chocolate flavor in small serving.

Research has shown that the flavonols found in cocoa are effective at lowering blood pressure when consumed as part of an overall healthy diet. Cocoa also contains potassium, calcium, magnesium and copper, all of which play a role in maintaining a healthy blood pressure. Cocoa also contains a significant amount of iron and phosphorus. Unsweetened cocoa powder is especially beneficial because it doesn’t have added sugar or fat.

Next time you are craving something sweet or crunchy, whip up a batch of these to enjoy all week. Just one recipe makes enough for you to portion out into 6 servings for easy snacking any time!

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw almonds (unsalted)
• ½ teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules
• 1 teaspoon powdered sugar

1. In a small non-stick skillet, toast almonds over low heat, stirring every couple of minutes, until they are fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add olive oil and stir to coat. Remove from heat.

2. Blend cocoa powder, coffee, and powdered sugar in a high powered blender or food processor until the coffee granules are incorporated into a powder.

3. Pour almonds and cocoa mixture into a medium bowl and toss to coat evenly. Shake off excess. Spread over parchment or waxed paper to cool.

4. Store almonds in an airtight container at room temperature.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

If you need a diabetes-friendly version, replace powdered sugar with ¼ to ½ teaspoons stevia.

Use this recipe with any nuts you prefer, just make sure they are raw, not roasted and salted, to keep the sodium content on the lower side.

Cooking and Serving Tips

I like to use dutch processed cocoa or dark chocolate cocoa powder for a rich chocolate taste, but any unsweetened cocoa powder works well.

Portion prepared almonds out ahead of time to stash in your bag or car for a healthy snack on the go! Doing this will also prevent you from eating more than the recommended portion size.