Snack: Low Carb Macadamia Nut Brownies

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey, Nuts

Health benefits of Low Carb Macadamia Nut Brownies

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Nuts are a natural source of Inositol, a derivative of Vitamin B (which is often prescribed in the form of supplements for women with PCOS). Inositol can effectively control the symptoms of PCOS by reducing insulin resistance and improving insulin sensitivity.

Ingredients

3/4 Cup Honeyville Almond Flour
3/4 Cup Erythritol
3/4 Cup Macadamia Nuts
1/4 Cup Coconut Oil
5 Tbsp. Salted Butter
3 Tbsp. Cocoa Powder
2 Large Eggs
1 1/2 tsp. Baking Powder
1 tsp. Vanilla Extract
1 tsp. Instant Coffee

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350F. If you can, before you start, have your butter and eggs waiting at room temperature.
2. In a mixing bowl, add your butter, coconut oil, and erythritol. Let the butter get to room temperature before you start mixing it up.
3. Cream the fats and sweetener together, making a creamy consistency.
4. Add your eggs and vanilla extract into the creamed butter. Try to have the eggs at room temperature before you start.
5. Mix these together well until everything is a creamed consistency. If you didn’t use room temperature eggs, like me, your coconut oil will seize up a bit and create a lumpy texture.
6. Add your cocoa powder and instant coffee to the mixture.
7. Mix the cocoa powder and coffee in well, until the mixture is a dark brown. You can now add your baking powder.
8. Cream everything together and then add your almond flour.
9. Mix this thoroughly until a light brown and fluffy texture is achieved.
10. Add 1/2 Cup of your Macadamia nuts and fold them in, making sure they are evenly distributed in the batter.
11. On an 8×8 baking sheet (I used 9 x 9 1/2) spread your batter evenly. Top with the rest of your macadamia nuts, and press them into the batter with your finger. You want them to be submerged into the batter, but still showing the top.
12. Put your brownie batter into the oven for 25 minutes at 350F. You should be able to poke them with a toothpick and have it come out clean. The edges will be slightly brown, almost burnt.
13. Let them cool for at least 15 minutes, slice into thirds horizontally and vertically (making 9 total brownies). Serve them up and enjoy!