Chocolate Coconut Brownie Donuts

Chocolate Coconut Brownie Donuts

Today was one of those days that called for a little indulgence, and usually for me that means chocolate.  But as always, I try to find ways to add a little health into everything I make, so although there is sugar, fat and chocolate chips in these, there are also whole grains, fiber and plenty of nutrients as well.  This is also an example of how I interchange ingredients and how you can learn to do the same.  Instead of the usual white sugar, I used half coconut nectar, which has a very low glycemic index (and won't affect blood sugar levels as drastically), is high in minerals, amino acids, and vitamins B and C.  If you do not have or cannot find coconut nectar, you could easily substitute honey, maple syrup or agave nectar.  Instead of butter, I used coconut oil, which although high in saturated fat, also helps control blood sugar levels, can increase your metabolism and helps your body absorb fat soluble vitamins.  You could also use canola oil, peanut butter or almond butter, depending on your flavor preference.  And as always, I used whole wheat flour and added in wheat germ and flax seed for an added nutritional boost.  The result is an incredibly rich, slightly flaky and delicate treat that my whole family loved!!!

Chocolate Coconut Brownie Donuts

melted chocolate and coconut oil

6 oz. melted dark chocolate

1/2 C. organic virgin coconut oil

1/2 C. organic white sugar

1/2 C. organic coconut nectar

1/2 C. organic unsweetened shredded coconut

2 organic eggs (or 1/2 C. soaked chia seed mixture)

2 tsp. vanilla extract

1 C. organic whole wheat pastry flour

2 T. ground flax seed

2 T. wheat germ

1/2 C. dark cocoa powder

dry & wet ingredients

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. baking powder

1/4 C. dark chocolate chips

ready to bake

Preheat oven to 350F.  In a small saucepan melt together the dark chocolate and coconut oil and let cool slightly.  In a large bowl, mix together the white sugar, coconut nectar, shredded coconut, eggs and vanilla, and then add in the cooled melted chocolate mixture.  Sift together the flour, flax seed, wheat germ, cocoa powder, salt and baking powder and add to the wet ingredients.  Stir in the chocolate chips.  Bake for 18 minutes.  Makes 18 donuts, or muffins.

ready to eat!!