Truffled
Man oh man.
Wait, I should back up.
My morning was spent working on culinary holiday gifts (can’t reveal the details because some recipients are readers!). This foray led me to give nut butter another shot. Today I took Ashley’s advice and made sure the walnuts turned to butter before adding anything.
Once I had achieved butter I added a pinch of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla, and 1 teaspoon of maple syrup.
You probably have to love walnuts to really appreciate this nut butter. I love the bitterness of walnuts and the hint of vanilla and maple contrast beautifully!
On a total impulse (and because the food processor was out and dirty and I didn’t want to scrape the corners) (oh, and because I was avoiding my exam) I decided to made some “truffles”.
I’ve seen variations of these on a few blogs, most notably Oh She Glows, and have been itching to give them a whirl.
To the “dirty” blender I added some oats (3/4 cup?) and a small handful of dates.
When I had a coarse crumble I threw in what was left of my almond butter disaster dough (3-4 tablespoons) and let it whirl.
Things were a little too crumbly so I added another 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla and a few spoons of water.
Ahh, much better, now that I can work with.
At first I thought it was too sticky so I rolled the first ball in raw sugar. I decided the sugar overwhelmed the natural sweetness and that they weren’t too sticky on their own.
Then I just couldn’t resist. I had to try chocolate. Into the processor went a spoonful of cocoa.
Wow, I think it’s a tie! They are both super delicious! The chocolate has a slightly better texture, a little drier and less doughy.
Next up, Rum-Raisin! I’ve got the raisins soaking already.
If you want more details, check in with the expert. Angela has gorgeous picture, exact measurements (unlike me!), and variations over at Oh She Glows.
I found my new favorite Exercise TV workout!
This full body strength workout with Stephanie Vitorino is fast, fun, and creative. I used 5 pound hand-weights for this 20 minute burner. I love that she keeps things moving, I am all about the active recovery!
I also did this workout with Steve Maresca and this one with Amy Dixon. Steve’s workout is called Cardio Sculpting so I was expecting a full body routine but it focuses on the legs. Steve is an odd bird but he knows his stuff. I am a fan of Amy Dixon but this workout is definitely beginning and not as intense as I was hoping for.
The thing I love about all of these workouts is that they are super dynamic and creative, nothing is more boring than another straight forward bicep curl! This type of workout also makes the most of your time by working upper and lower body together, which also gives you a great little cardio boost.
Speaking of cardio boosts, I’m off to run in this cold and clear day!
