If you meal prep anything for the week let it be this chocolate bark. Yes, I am telling you to meal prep a dessert!!
I crafted together some functional ingredients that make this the perfect nightime dessert. I know I am not the ony one who wishes for a little sweet treat after dinner, and a bonus if it doesn’t make you feel like you’ve ruined a great day of eating.
The main players for this dessert are dark chocolate, tart cherries, ashwagandha powder, ceylon cinnamon, hemp hearts, and almonds. Here’s why these ingredients are perfect for the evening.
Dark Chocolate: while there are a lot of benefits of dark chocolate (70% or more cacao) I’ll highligt that for at night the magnesium content of dark chocolate can help promote relaxation, the antioxidants are great for reducing inflammation and the amino acid tryptophan in dark chocolate acts as precursor to serotonin–a neurotransmitter associated with sleep and mood regulation.
Dried Tart Cherries: contains natural melatonin, a phytochemical supporting our own melatonin hormone responsible for regulating our sleep-wake cycle. Plus they taste really good with chocolate!
Ashwagandha: this herb is known for its adaptogenic properties (read here for all the info on adaptogens!) and has been well studied for use in reducing cortisol levels, reducing stress and anxiety and promoting better sleep.
Ceylon cinnamon: this herb is great for blood sugar support by improving insulin sensitivity and may also contain anti-inflammatory properties.
Hemp Hearts: a quality plant-based protein also containing fiber and omega 3 & 6 fatty acids. This combo of qualities promotes blood sugar support from the protein and fiber and may help with satiety overnight
Almonds: a rich source of magnesium, again known to help promote relaxation. Also with fiber and healthy fats to promote satiety and blood sugar support.
Check out the recipe below. All ingreidents are linked for you to be able to make today 🙂
Night-night Chocolate Bark by Claire Marcoulier