Caramel slice is traditionally low in fibre and nutrients, high in saturated fat and refined carbohydrate. To hit your sweet tooth but stay on track, try this new improved version is nutrient rich, higher in fibre and lower in added sugars. Part of what our Nutrition Coach students learn is how to help clients create long-term healthy habits rather than embarking on a short-term fad diets. While this recipe is still a treat, it’s a great way for a client to get some key nutrients without feeling deprived.

Raw Caramel Slice

Base

1 cup walnuts

1 cup dates

Middle 

½ cup Tahini

1 tablespoon honey

2 mashed bananas

Topping 

1 cup melted coconut oil

4 tablespoons cacao powder

Method

1. Line a square / rectangular baking tin with baking paper

2. Combine dates and walnuts in a food processor for the base

3. Spread the dates / walnut mix on the bottom of your baking tin, pressing in with your fingers

to ensure it’s firmly packed

4. Mix tahini, honey and banana until smooth

5. Spread on top of your base

6. Mix melted coconut oil and cacao and drizzle on top of tahini and banana for your final layer

7. Refrigerate for 1 hour

Keep reading for Australian Institute of Fitness Nutrition Expert, Shivaun Conn’s 3 reasons our nutritious makeover of this popular cheat meal should be your next kitchen adventure!

1. Walnuts

Walnuts, a component of the healthy base, are one of the few plant sources of omega 3, containing 6280mg alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) per 100g. Research has shown that ALA from a 37g handful of walnuts each day can reduce inflammation. Walnuts can also lower both total and ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol levels without effecting ‘good’ HDL cholesterol.

2. Bananas

Bananas, part of the healthy filling, are the best fruit source of vitamin B6 and a good source of vitamin C, along with modest amounts of the B group vitamins folate, niacin, riboflavin and pantothenic acid. They also provide minerals (magnesium, potassium), fibre (including resistant starch) and antioxidants.

3. Raw Cacao Powder

Raw cacao powder adds a healthy chocolate taste to the topping. It is a rich source of magnesium and contains high levels of polyphenols that help to prevent degenerative diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases and cancers.

The Original Recipe:

BASE FLOUR, SUGAR, BUTTER
FILLING SWEETENED CONDENSED MILK. GOLDEN SYRUP, BUTTER
TOPPING COPHA, COOKING CHOCOLATE

Shivaun

Written by Shivaun Conn
Accredited Practising Dietitian and Nutritionist

Published by the Australian Institute of Fitness

Find out more at www.fitnessnetwork.com.au