Who didn’t eat instant or boxed Chocolate Pudding when they were young?  Now that I know what’s in it (read the label sometime…  ugh), I stay clear.  Besides, there are lots of reasons to not eat heavy cream and milk.  I do not eat dairy at all.  I would recommend, if you are trying to lose weight, that you avoid all dairy for the first two months.  Then, re-introduce it slowly ONLY if you can’t live without it.  I’ve found my body feels much better when I do not eat any.

Today I’m sharing with you one of my favorite “legal” desserts.  This is a healthy alternative to chocolate pudding/mousse.  The avocado, if soft and not over-ripe, has an almost neutral flavor, can be mashed and mixed with cocoa, and you can use Agave, or if you want it to be completely sugar free use Stevia!  I recommend using a food processor for this, it makes it much easier.  Experiment with it, and add a bit of water or almond or rice milk if it’s too thick.

Avocado Chocolate “Mousse”

Yields 4 servings

Ingredients

2 Avocados, soft but still slightly firm — no brown spots!  no bruises!
6 tablespoons cocoa powder – I use the best I can find
¼ cup maple syrup or honey (or Stevia or monkfruit to taste) (adjust to desired sweetness)
pinch of salt
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon vanilla
½ teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

Pulse in a food processor until creamy.

Decorate the dessert cup with raspberries, mint leaves, oranges, coconut or shaved dark chocolate.  Guilt free!

Nutrition Information:

Calories per serving approx. 250 – 300 (depending on avocado size and honey  vs. stevia or monkfruit, which have lesss calories).  Yes, this has FAT in it.  From the avocado.  GOOD FAT.  And it will keep you full longer.

If you’re trying to lose weight, have something like this once in a while.  I try to stick to the 90%/ 10% rule:  This is actually mostly on the 90% side, but has a bit more sugar than I normally eat.  A whole avocado has 4 g protein and 13 g of fiber, making it a great occassional treat.