Holistic Chef Eddie's Tip of the Day #32

I realize that lately the market has been flooded with KETO options to include desserts.  My CHOCOLATE KETO BALLS ​are something I devised a couple of years ago when stores were not selling KETO friendly desserts and options were  slim pickings.  I had so many people tell me that they were on target with their eating, however since their lifestyle is high in good fats, low in carbohydrates and sugar, they missed having something sweet.  Even natural sugar in fruits was too much sugar (excluding berries which are low in natural sugar).  I went on a KETO way of eating 2 years ago and felt their pain.  I wanted to be there for others and also satisfy my own cravings.  I am a sugar addict and really missed something sweet to nosh on.  There is no reason to deny yourself because when you do, you "cheat" and feel guilty and remorseful.  So you "cheat" some more and the insanity continues.  NO MORE GUILT.  Here's a terrific, satisfying and delicious energy boost for you.  Just pop one (or two or three or four etc.) in your mouth for a wonderful sweet treat.  Bet you can't eat just one.  What the heck, you deserve it.  By the way everyone can enjoy.  It's gluten free, KETO, PALEO, vegetarian, vegan and Kosher.  Even better, huh?
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          CHOCOLATE KETO BALLS

1 3/4 cups Unsweetened Shredded Coconut (I have noticed that Whole Foods Market sells already toasted Coconut)
2 - 3 Tablespoons melted Coconut Oil
3 Tablespoons Monk Fruit Sweetener (more for extra sweetness)
1/4 cup Cocoa Powder
3 Tablespoons unsweetened Coconut Milk (or Almond Milk)
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1/2 teaspoon ground Cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon Himalayan Salt

1)  Pour the shredded Coconut onto a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees until light brown.  Eliminate this step if your Coconut is already toasted.
2)  In a high speed blender (such as a Ninja or Vitamix) pour the toasted shredded Coconut and the rest of the ingredients.  Blend until fully combined.  The mixture should be moist but not wet and will hold when formed into a ball.  If not, add more Coconut Oil.  When refrigerated, the Coconut Oil will harden and keep the balls from crumbling.  
Suggested Fillings and Toppings:
Blueberries
Raspberries
Strawberries
Almonds, Walnuts, Macadamia, Pecans, Pistachios  (your choice)
Pumpkin, Sunflower, Sesame, Poppy Seeds
Directions for Assembly:
1)  In a food processor, pulse the nuts and/or seeds until they look like  crumbs.  Place the nuts and seeds in separate bowls.  
2)  Take enough mixture to make a 1" ball in your hand and press into the center of the ball.  Add one raspberry or 2 blueberries or a small piece of strawberry or a piece of a nut and cover it with the chocolate already in your hand.  Roll the mixture into a ball and if you choose, roll it in the crumbled nuts and/or seeds.  
3)  Refrigerate until very firm.  Keep the balls refrigerated and nosh to your heart's content.  You'll be surprised.  Your cravings will go away and  you won't overeat them because your insulin level won't be spiked and they are very low in carbs.  Enjoy!!!