Vanilla Bean Hazelnut Cheesecake Bites

Vanilla, hazelnuts, chocolate; these are a few of my favorite things.

So when it came to creating a cheesecake recipe, I wanted it to involve all of these ingredients in the most harmonious way possible while tasting like an actual, real cheesecake.  These vanilla bean hazelnut cheesecake bites are decadent, smooth, creamy, and not to mention gluten-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free (oh, and no-bake!).

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The Cookie Cupcake

The Cookie Cupcake

Can’t decide between a cupcake or cookie?  You can have your cookie and cupcake with this innovative twist on the classic, the “Cookie Cupcake.”  Not a keen cupcake decorator?  When it came to testing out my brother’s birthday cupcakes, I have to admit they weren’t beautiful.  Luckily, I have discovered the easiest way to decorate a cupcake that is sophisticated looking, and so easy, a little kid could do it!

The Cookie Cupcake

The process is more simple than anything you’ve frosted before – you basically glue a cupcake and cookie together with chocolate.

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Mint Lemon Sorbet (Vegan)

I am often asked what I think is the perfect summertime treat.  Without a doubt – sorbet!  Sorbet is not only an incredibly easy dessert to make at home, requiring very few ingredients, but also, perfect for every age group – children, adults, and elders.  It is especially great for those with many food intolerances and allergies.  It just hits the spot for those who aren’t looking for a dessert that’s too fruity,  too tarty, or heavy (like my family!).  A true crowd pleaser!

In Italy, people generally have “sorbetto” in the summer to finish a meal.  In other fine dining instances, small amounts of sorbet, called the “intermezzo”, are served between courses.  It is considered a palate cleanser, and prepares your taste buds for the next course.  Either way, it is a delicate part of any meal, and with the mint, it instantly places a refreshing taste in your mouth.  At the end of your spoonful, there’s a very subtle tang from the lemon which is softened by the sugar, and if you choose, honey.  You can get this summer hit made within 45 minutes (freezing not included)!

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Savoiardi (Italian Lady Fingers)

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When the annual Café Cultural, at my brother’s school came up, we were delighted to share our Italian heritage with the traditional Italian savoiardo.  Savoiardi are an Italian dessert that are similar to Lady Fingers, but since they are Italian, they are double in size.  As it turns out, I was very lucky to have used my Sicilian great grandmother’s recipe.

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“Depression” Chocolate Vegan Cake (GF + V)

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A couple years ago, I attended a young boy’s birthday party.  He was no ordinary boy – he was allergic to dairy, eggs, soy, nuts, the whole ordeal.  So, I was extremely curious to see what dessert would be served at his event.  His mom came up to me and offered me a slice of the moistest and most delicious chocolate cake I had ever tasted.

She proceeded to tell me the cake was called the “Depression Cake.” What?!  A cake called the Depression for a kid’s birthday party?!

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Oatmeal Cookies (gluten free, dairy free, refined sugar free)

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Oatmeal cookies are a staple recipe in American homes, but a lot of times, these cookies are overly sweet and buttery.  So what better way to start the year than with some good old healthy oatmeal cookies?  Don’t worry, they don’t taste off or unrecognizable.  In fact, they taste just like normal oatmeal cookies, but without any of the bad stuff!

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I was determined to make oatmeal cookies that were enjoyable yet had good, wholesome ingredients.  For sugar, I used coconut sugar because it has a rich and caramel like flavor, but doesn’t compromise the consistency of the cookie.  Coconut sugar also has a low glycemic index (35)!  In addition, the flour blend along with the oats is full of protein and fiber.  For chocolate chips, make sure they do not have any milk products if you’re sensitive or allergic.  Also, it’s best if it doesn’t have soy lecithin because it can contain traces of milk.  I use Enjoy Life.

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These cookies are hearty, grainy, and with the perfect amount of sweetness.  They don’t take long to make, and are perfect for a snowy day!

Oatmeal Cookies (gluten free, dairy free, refined sugar free)
Author: 
Recipe type: Dessert
Cuisine: gluten free, dairy free, refined sugar free
Prep time: 
Cook time: 
Total time: 
Serves: 32
 
Ingredients
  • ½ cup vegan butter (I like Mykonos's)
  • ¾ cup coconut sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 100g cassava flour
  • 50g potato starch
  • 42g brown rice flour
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • 3 cups gluten-free oats
Optional
  • 1 tbsp mesquite flour
  • vegan dark chocolate chips
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. In a large bowl, beat butter and coconut sugar until creamy.
  3. Add in eggs and vanilla, and mix.
  4. Add combined flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt with electric mixer.
  5. Add oats and chocolate chips.
  6. With a cookie scooper, place the dough onto a lined cookie pan and lightly press down on the dough.
  7. Bake for 10-15 minutes.
Notes
*Can be replaced with normal granulated sugar, but it will not be refined sugar free.