Almond & Coconut Beijinhos (Portugal)
THIS HEALTHY & SWEET RECIPE
This is the second of the Fit Four Portugal recipes. Beijinhos literally means "little kisses" and that's just what these are - tiny kisses of sweetness. Traditionally, this dessert is made with lots of sugar (think 1/4 cup or 50g) but I've nixed much of that to make the recipe healthier. These are still tasty and perfect as a portable protein snack pre/post workout or while traveling.
Makes 10 - 12 small balls
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup or 100g shredded coconut
- 1/3 cup or 50g naked almonds (peeled)
- 2 egg whites
- zest from 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons or 25g coconut palm sugar
- 1 big spoon arrowroot powder (firms up the dough)
- non-stick baking parchment paper (this is the white one)
Steps
Make sure all your dry ingredients are ready; get the almonds blended into small pieces in a food processor (if not pre-bought that way) and use a hand grater to zest the lemon.
Now, mix all dry ingredients in a small bowl (that's everything minus the egg whites.)
Once the dry ingredients are well mixed, add egg whites. You should get a consistency that's firm enough to roll in your hands without sticking much. If it's too doughy, try adding more almonds or coconut flakes as you like. You can add more arrowroot powder but be careful - it can make the mixture very dry. Adding sugar is a last resort because we want to try to keep this relatively healthy, yeah?
When you have a consistency that works, form small balls with the mixture. Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. (This paper is ideal because it prevents sticking without the addition of oil or butter for greasing.)
Finally, bake the beijinhos in the oven for 12 to 18 minutes. Less time = softer texture and more time = firmer texture. I would check after 10 minutes to see how they're doing - you don't want your little kisses to turn into stones!
Enjoy these by themselves or with a nice cuppa of coffee/tea. Beijinho!
