Raw Vegan Millionaires Slices.

A crisp crumbly base, sweet gooey caramel, topped off with an indulgent snap of chocolate...

So this recipe doesn't exactly promise that, but if you're looking for a version that makes you feel slightly less naughty and slightly more virtuous then this is what you need!

Millionaires shortbread used to be my favourite treat growing up, and my go-to option at coffee shops and cafes. I used to dissect it and eat each component separately - much to the horror of my mother. And even now I would choose a caramel shortbread over almost any dessert. However I am very aware that cannot exactly be classified as a nutritious snack, and definitely not something I can justify on a daily basis!

So in some vain attempt to justify to myself eating millionaires slice every week, I have come up with a completely raw version of my favourite treat. I am well aware, as should you be, that just because it's raw, vegan and gluten free it doesn't make it 'healthy'. Of course it is more nutritious, rich in micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), and much less processed. Though it is not calorie free and I still don't condone eating it every day unfortunately.

It is super tasty though, and I think the sweetness of the dates alongside the rich dark chocolate coating with just a sprinkle of salt is almost as indulgent as the real thing! Give it a go and let me know what you think... tag @andrahealth in your photos and let us see your versions!

RECIPE

Makes: Approximately 8 slices

Time to Make: 30 minutes plus chilling

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

INGREDIENTS

BASE
50g Quinoa Flakes*
40g Ground Almonds
10g Honey
20g Maple Syrup
75g Peanut Butter
3 tsp Water
Pinch of Salt

CARAMEL
80g Dates (Pitted)
2 tsp Almond Butter
1 tbsp Water
Pinch of Salt

CHOCOLATE
25g Coconut Oil
25g Cacao Powder or Dark Cocoa Powder
10g Maple Syrup
Sprinkle of Salt

METHOD

1. BASE

   1. Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl, adding more water if necessary to bring the dough together

   2. Press the dough into a lined tray, making sure it's nice and flat

   3. Chill in the fridge while you make the rest of the components

   CARAMEL

   1. If your dates are't super fresh or juicy, soak them in hot water for 30 minutes prior to making the caramel (remember to drain before you blend them!)

   2. Blend the dates with the rest of the ingredients, again adding water if you need to get a thick caramel consistency

   3. You can use a food processor or Nutribullet-type blender if you like, however I found that a handheld stick blender actually works really well and helps to get a very smooth consistency

   4. Smooth the caramel onto the base and again chill while you make the chocolate

   CHOCOLATE

   1. Melt the coconut oil in the microwave or in a pan

   2. Add the cacao and whisk until smooth

   3. Add the maple syrup and stir to incorpirate

   4. Pour over the millionaires slice and spread to get an even coating

   5. Sprinkle a small amount of salt over the whole thing which will help to bring out the sweetness

   6. Chill until the chocolate has set and enjoy

   Keep fresh in the fridge if you don't finish it all in one sitting!

TIP

* You can substitute the quinoa flakes for oats if you would prefer and use any ground nuts if you don't like almonds