Avocados are not always thought of first for dessert, but they are a great source of healthy monounsaturated fat and antioxidants that can be used to satisfy the sweet tooth while managing the body’s a body’s inflammatory response. Applesauce is a similar food that can be used in baking and provides a healthy alternative to fatty oils and adds fiber to the recipe and reduces inflammation.
Other ingredients in the recipe that have health benefits include:
- Maple syrup contains a molecule called quebecol which has good anti-inflammatory properties.
- Dark chocolate is filled with antioxidants called flavanols, which reduce inflammation in the body by keeping endothelial cells within the arteries healthy. For the greatest benefit look for dark chocolate at 70% cocoa or higher.
- Hazelnuts are considered an excellent anti-inflammatory ingredient as they are the second richest source of monounsaturated fatty acids among nuts and because they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and phenolic compounds.