Paleo Santa Hat Brownie Bites (AIP Friendly)

 Today’s Christmas themed brownie bites came out of inspiration from watching various cooking shows.  I love the festivity that these shows bring to all of the differing holidays, and they always get me excited to further my recipe experimentation in the kitchen.  Therefore, when I saw a segment on Rachel Ray for Santa Hat treats, I decided there was no reason I could not replicate the recipe for those not on the SAD (standard American diet).  As noted in the original recipe post, I have included an Autoimmune friendly version for my brownies, ensuring even those on the healing protocol can enjoy this festive treat.  Really, with three vegetables/fruit (plantain, sweet potato, & avocado), I have never seen such a nutrient dense brownie out there yet!  To view my  original, espresso fudge brownie recipe, you can do so by clicking here.  There, you can also find the recipe to make the Autoimmune-Paleo friendly version.  All in all, these Santa hat brownie bites were a serious hit! I brought them to one of my integrative manual therapy sessions, and everyone was overjoyed at not only the cute presentation, but how delicious the actual treat was.  Not only were the brownies loved, but they could not get over how tasty the frosting was.  Therefore, I knew I must share them with the world, as they are truly a dessert everyone will love, both Paleo or not! I know you will enjoy them just as much as my friends and family did this blessed Christmas.   

Ingredients

• 1 batch of espresso fudge brownies
• 1 cup non-hydrogenated palm shortening
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 3 medjool dates – pitted & soaked in hot water for at least one hour 
• 1/8th tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 
• 1 quart fresh strawberries

Process

• Make brownies as directed, allowing to completely cool before cutting into shapes.

• While the brownies are cooling, prepare the frosting by pureeing all of the ingredients together in a food processor until smooth.

• Transfer frosting to a piping bag, placing in the fridge to firm for 10-15 minutes. 
• Wash and dry strawberries, cutting off the stems. 
• Once cooled, cut brownies into small circles using a small cookie cutter or top of a glass.  *I used a plastic shot glass.

• Pipe about a tbsp of frosting on top of each brownies bite.

• Place a strawberry upside down to create santa’s hat, and pipe a small dot of frosting on top of the hat to finish. 

• Place on a serving platter and enjoy!