Low Carb Chocolate Peppermint Ice Cream

I love my low carb, sugar free Peppermint Ice Cream! Peppermint has always been my favorite flavor of ice cream, going back as far as high school, when one of my first jobs was working at an ice cream parlor. My favorite way of eating it is with hot fudge sauce (see my low carb hot fudge sauce, it’s killer!) Knowing this, my husband asked, “Why don’t you make a Chocolate Peppermint Ice Cream?” I stared at him in amazement…Duh! Why haven’t I done this before? Now, THIS may become my new favorite!

Low Carb Chocolate Peppermint Ice Cream

Makes about 8 servings

1 cup whole milk (Fairlife Brand, see note below)*

3½ tablespoons powdered erythritol sweetener 

7 tablespoons allulose sweetener

4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 teaspoon instant coffee granules (optional, but enhances chocolate flavor)

A pinch of salt

1 teaspoon peppermint extract

1/4 teaspoon chocolate extract

2 cups heavy whipping cream

Add-Ins:

2-3 tablespoons sugar free peppermint candy, lightly crushed (I used my own recipe, click here)

1/3 cup sugar free white chocolate baking chips, chopped (I use Lily’s White Chocolate Peppermint Baking Chips)

1. Combine milk, sweeteners, cocoa powder, coffee granules, salt, and extracts in a blender. Process on low until smooth and cocoa powder is fully incorporated. Pour into a container and then whisk in the heavy cream by hand. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours or until chilled. Whisk the mixture again just before churning.

2. Churn in an ice cream maker, according to manufacturer’s directions. Towards the end of the churning process, spoon in the add-ins. Remove to a container and place in the freezer for at least six hours to firm up.

* I recommend Fairlife whole milk because it is lactose free and has half the carbs of regular milk. If using regular whole milk, add 1½ carbs per serving.

Nutritional Information per ½ cup: 231 calories, 7.5 g carbohydrates (1.3 g dietary fiber, 1 g sugars, 5.5 g sugar alcohols), 25.5 g total fat (15 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 83 mg cholesterol, 35 mg sodium, 56.1 g calcium, 53 mg potassium, 1 mg iron, 255 IU Vit A, 9 mg caffeine, 2.2 g protein. Net carbs per serving: 3.45 grams

Photos and Recipe by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2024

All rights reserved. Please do not duplicate without the author’s permission. 

Keto Chocolate Fudge Sauce

Although there are some sugar free chocolate sauces commercially available, I really haven’t found one that tastes good. But because it’s so easy and quick to make with only a few ingredients, I don’t mind making my own. This recipe is absolutely delicious! It’s got a deep chocolate fudge flavor that pairs perfectly with low carb ice cream. I deliberately made it lighter than ganache so that it stays fluid and pourable for longer as it cools, that way it won’t melt my ice cream into a puddle, like most hot fudge sauces can. You can use any sugar free chocolate chips, but I highly recommend Guittard’s Keto Dark Chocolate Baking Chips. They are my new favorite keto baking chips! They do not contain any sugar alcohols and have only 1 net carb per serving of 23 chips!

Keto Chocolate Fudge Sauce

Yields about 1 cup (8 servings)

½ cup low carb milk of choice (or substitute 1/4 cup heavy cream + 1/4 cup water)

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

8-10 drops monkfruit extract or liquid stevia

4 ounces sugar free milk or dark chocolate chips (you can substitute any flavor of sugar free baking chips)

1. Place the sugar-free chocolate chips in a bowl; set aside.

2. In a saucepan, bring the milk to a low simmer. Pour the very hot milk over the chocolate. Add the butter and monkfruit extract. (Alternatively, you can heat milk and butter in the microwave until very hot and steaming, then pour over the chocolate chips and add the monk fruit extract or stevia.)

3. Allow the chips to sit in the hot milk undisturbed for about one minute, then whisk until chocolate is completely melted, becomes blended into the milk, and the sauce is smooth. Enjoy!

4. Cover and store any leftovers in the refrigerator. The fudge sauce will thicken as it cools. It can be reheated in a microwave oven for about 15 to 30 seconds to make it pourable again.

Nutritional Information per 2 tablespoons (made with Guittard Keto Dark Chocolate Baking Chips): 113 calories, 5.6 g carbohydrates (4.7 g dietary fiber, 1.9 g sugars), 11 g total fat (6.4 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 14 mg cholesterol, 3 mg sodium, 13.6 mg calcium, 70 mg potassium, 2 mg iron, 43 IU Vit A, 1 g protein. Net carbs per serving: 0.9 grams

Nutritional Information per 2 tablespoons (made with Lily’s Sugar Free Dark Chocolate Chips): 85 calories, 8.4 g carbohydrates (3.8 g dietary fiber, 0 g sugars, 2.8 g sugar alcohols), 8.7 g total fat (2.7 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 14 mg cholesterol, 3 mg sodium, 0.4 mg calcium, 0 mg potassium, 0 mg iron, 43 IU Vit A, 1 g protein. Net carbs per serving: 1.8 grams

Recipe and photos by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2024

All rights reserved. Please do not duplicate without the author’s permission. 

Keto Decorative Snack Cakes with Ganache Topping

This post describes a technique for making adorable, miniature snack cakes using a decorative, silicone baking mold. You can use any low carb, sugar free cupcake recipe or boxed cake mix. I recently bought the Wilton Winter Snowflake Baking and Candy Mold and Heart Mold and, as you can see, the results are impressive! The warm ganache icing is poured into the mold, topped with a previously baked and cooled cake and then placed in the freezer to set. Later, when the cake is unmolded, the ganache topping is beautifully embossed!! These snack cakes may look fancy, but they’re really quite easy to make. Try this same technique with any silicone baking mold for a healthy, sugar free, low carb dessert that can be customized for any occasion!

Keto Decorative Snack Cakes with Ganache Topping

Number of servings depends on your baking mold

Directions:

1. Use any low carb, sugar free cupcake or cake recipe or boxed cake mix to make the mini cakes. Depending on the number of cakes in your mold, the recipe may need to be halved. Since my molds have six snowflakes or hearts, I halved my recipe to make six cakes. Follow the recipe, but be aware the baking time may need to be shortened. Bake until the top springs back when touched and a toothpick comes out clean. Do not make the frosting, if included in the recipe, because it’s not needed. Here are a few links to my favorite recipes I’ve tried in the past and can recommend:

Low Carb White Chocolate Peppermint Cake

Low Carb Hot Cocoa Cake

Low Carb Yellow Cake

Gingerbread Cupcakes

Chocolate Peppermint Cupcakes

Other Ingredients:

Decorative sprinkles

1 cup Lily’s sugar free baking chips (any flavor)

2½ ounces heavy cream (6 tablespoons)

2. Spray the silicone baking mold with non-sticking baking spray. Follow the directions in your recipe or on the box to make the cake batter. Spoon batter into each cavity until 3/4 full. Tap the mold on the counter to level out the batter and remove any air bubbles. Bake according to recipe or package directions, until the tops spring back when lightly touched in the center and a toothpick comes out clean. After the cupcakes are baked, take them out of the baking mold and cool completely on a wire rack before proceeding. 

3. Once the cakes are cooled, wash the baking mold to remove any crumbs or oil and dry thoroughly. Spoon 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon sprinkles into each cavity and set aside. 

4. Make the Chocolate Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until beginning to simmer. Stir to make sure all of the cream is heated through and bring to a gentle simmer again. Meanwhile, place the sugar free baking chips into a heat-proof bowl. Once the cream is hot, pour over the chocolate chips and allow to sit for 5 minutes. Whisk until smooth. (Note: Lily’s Sugar Free Baking Chips come in a variety of flavors. If you use plain white chocolate, you can add ½ teaspoon of any flavor extract to the ganache to create your own flavor. For example, add caramel extract to make a caramel flavored white chocolate ganache! Also, you can color the ganache with a drop or two of gel food coloring.)

5. Carefully, pour the chocolate ganache into the baking mold, covering the sprinkles, until about 1/4 - ½ inch deep (see photo above). Take one of the cooled cakes and insert it into the mold (like a puzzle), on top of the warm ganache, and press down gently. Repeat with the remaining cakes. Place the baking mold on a flat tray or baking sheet and tap on the counter to help settle the warm ganache into the grooves and lines of the mold’s design.

6. Place the mold into the freezer and allow to set for a minimum of 3 hours, and 4 hours is even better. (This is important! You want the chocolate ganache to be completely frozen to make unmolding the cakes easier.)

7. Remove from freezer and, while the cakes are frozen, unmold them and place them, cake side down, on a platter. The cakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For the best flavor and texture, remove from the refrigerator and allow the cakes to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information per cake varies, depending on the recipe used.

Photos and recipe by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2022

All rights reserved. Please do not duplicate without the author’s permission. 

Keto Peppermint Stick Ice Cream

Since I was a little girl, my absolute favorite flavor of ice cream has always been Peppermint Stick. I have tried for many years to perfect a peppermint ice cream and, I’m happy to announce, I’ve finally done it! This is exactly like the peppermint stick ice cream I remember from Braum’s in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where I grew up. Crunchy candies throughout in a creamy peppermint ice cream base that is both sugar-free and so low in carbs you won’t believe it! I don’t have to only dream about having my favorite ice cream ever again!

Keto Peppermint Stick Ice Cream

Makes 8 servings

Ice Cream Base:

1 cup whole milk (I suggest Fairlife or Maple Hill Zero Sugar Whole milk, see note*)

3 tablespoons powdered erythritol sweetener (I used LaKanto Monkfruit Powdered sweetener)

6 tablespoons allulose

A pinch of salt

2 cups heavy cream

3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract, or to taste

1 drop red gel food coloring (optional)

Candy Cane Mix-Ins:

2 real mini peppermint candy canes, crushed (about 1 tablespoon or a serving size of candy equaling 8 g carb, see note**)

2 tablespoons Sugar Free Peppermint Hard Candy, crushed into tiny pieces (1/2 of my peppermint hard candy, click here for recipe)

1. In a medium bowl, use a whisk to combine the milk, sweeteners and salt until the sweeteners are dissolved. Stir in the heavy cream, peppermint extract and a drop of food coloring, if using. Taste and adjust the level of peppermint flavor to your liking. Cover and refrigerate a minimum of two hours, preferably overnight. Whisk mixture together again before continuing.

2. Meanwhile, make a batch of my Sugar-Free Peppermint Hard Candy (see separate recipe here). You may also use commercially available sugar free peppermint candy, but be aware that the sweeteners they use (isomalt, sorbitol and mannitol) cause digestive upset, gas, bloating and loose stools in many people. I am one of those sensitive people, so I make my own peppermint candy using erythritol.)

3. Crush the two mini real candy canes and 1/2 recipe of the sugar-free peppermint hard candy and set aside until needed in the churning process.

4. Follow the directions for your ice cream maker. Pour the chilled ice cream base into the ice cream maker and churn until thickened and beginning to set. Add the crushed peppermint candies, a teaspoon at a time, and continue to churn until quite thick. Spoon the ice cream into an airtight container and place in the freezer for six hours or more to set up before serving.

Notes:

* I suggest the brand Fairlife whole milk, which has less sugar, is lactose free and is half the carbs of regular whole milk. If using regular whole milk, add 1 1/2 carbs per serving.

** You can use sugar-free peppermint candies in place of the mini candy canes, but be aware that sugar-free candies contain isomalt, sorbitol or mannitol, all of which can cause digestive upset. Personally, I am so sensitive to those offending sugar alcohols that I prefer using a small amount of regular peppermint candy to avoid any risk of digestive upset, also you can choose to omit the peppermint candy altogether and reduce the carbs per serving by 1 gram. 

Nutritional Information per 1/2 cup serving (made with Fairlife whole milk): 225 calories, 2.9 g carbohydrate (0 g fiber, 1.7 g sugars, 0.5 g sugar alcohols), 24.7 g total fat (14.4 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 83 mg cholesterol, 49 mg sodium, 50.2 mg calcium, 3 mg potassium, 255 IU Vit A, 1.6 g protein. Net carbs per serving: 2.4 grams

Photos and recipe by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2021

All rights reserved. Please do not duplicate without the authors permission.

Sugar Free Peppermint Hard Candy

I love the taste of candy cane at this time of year. But, unfortunately, the sugar-free peppermint candies available in the stores are sweetened with the offending sugar alcohols isomalt, sorbitol or mannitol, all of which can cause embarrassing gas, bloating and loose stools… not the fun side effect you hope to experience from eating candy! I made these candies, not only for eating, but for sprinkling on my holiday baked goods or adding to my favorite ice cream flavor: Peppermint Stick Ice Cream! It is necessary to have a candy thermometer or probe thermometer to achieve correct hard-crack stage this candy requires. Also, erythritol-based sugar substitute is a must.  I’ve tried making this candy with allulose, but it turned out softer and chewy, like taffy, instead of a hard candy. Not bad, but not exactly what I was looking for. If you would like an alternative to the sugar-free candies available commercially, to crush and add to your ice cream or sprinkle on top of your keto baked goods, this is the recipe for you!

Sugar Free Peppermint Hard Candy

Number of servings varies (Yields 1/2 cup crushed candies)

1/2 cup erythritol-based powdered sweetener (I prefer Lakanto Monkfruit Powdered Sweetener)

1/16 teaspoon cream of tartar

1/3 cup water

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract, or to taste

1 drop of gel food coloring (optional)

Equipment Needed:

Candy thermometer or Digital Probe thermometer*

1. In a small, heavy saucepan, very gently stir together the sweetener, cream of tartar and water over medium high heat just until the dry ingredients are dissolved. Stop stirring and allow to come to a boil. Continue to boil, without stirring, until the mixture reaches between 300 - 310°F. The mixture will remain clear and not thicken into a syrup. Temperature is the only way to determine if it has reached the hard crack stage. (Do not overcook or the mixture will begin to take on a bitter, burnt flavor.) Remove from heat.

2. While the mixture is boiling, line a small heatproof bowl with foil and set aside. You may also use silicone candy molds to create individual, bite-sized candies.

3. When the mixture stops bubbling, add the extract and food coloring (if using) and stir to combine. Pour the mixture into the foil-lined bowl and allow to cool for about 15 minutes. (Or pour into a silicone candy mold to make individual candies.) Refrigerate the mixture several hours until completely set and hardened.

4. Remove the foil or pop out the individual candies from the silicone mold. To make peppermint candy sprinkles, place the harden candy disc in a plastic bag and gently break apart by lightly pounding with the handle of a butter knife. (This candy has a more delicate structure than hard candy made from real sugar, so don’t pound too aggressively.) The broken, gently crush candy makes an excellent mix-in for my Keto Peppermint Stick Ice Cream or as a topping on keto baked goods.

*Note: To achieve a hard candy, you need to use an erythritol-based sweetener. Allulose or Bocha Sweet will not firm up properly. (These two sweeteners make great taffy or chewy caramel, but not hard candies.) Also, you really need a candy thermometer or digital thermometer to make sure the boiling mixture reaches the right temperature, between 300-310°F, so it will set up correctly. Erythritol-based sweetener will not act like real sugar. It doesn’t thicken up into a syrup and will not ball up when added to cold water, so temperature is the only way to determine when you’ve reached the hard crack stage.

Nutritional Information per 1 tablespoon of crushed candy: 1 calorie, 6 g carbohydrate (0 g fiber, 0 g sugars, 12 g sugar alcohols), 0 g fat, 0 mg sodium, 10 mg potassium, 0 g protein. Net carbs per serving: 0 grams

Photos and recipe by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2021

All rights reserved. Please do not duplicate without the author’s permission.

Low Carb Hot Chocolate Bombs

Hot Chocolate Bombs are all the rage and will be found in many stockings of my family and friends this year! They are a lot of fun, easy to make with the right supplies and can be made sugar free and keto too. When you place one in a mug and add hot milk, the outer coating of chocolate melts and the cocoa mix and marshmallows burst forth to make the most delectable, rich hot cocoa ever! 

Supplies needed:

2.5” to 2.75” round silicone candy mold

A variety of sugar free baking chips (I used Lily’s)

Low Carb Hot Cocoa Mix:

Yields about 1 cup (8-9 servings of 2 tablespoons each)

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 cup heavy cream powder (or powdered milk, but will add some carbs)

6 tablespoons granulated erythritol sweetener 

1 teaspoon stevia powder (I used SweetLeaf brand)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon vanilla powder (optional)

1. Mix all of the Low Carb Hot Cocoa Mix ingredients together. Stir until well combined and no lumps remain; set aside.

2. Melt sugar free baking chips by microwaving in a microwave-safe bowl for 15 seconds. Allow the chips to sit for a few minutes and stir. If additional melting is needed, microwave for 6 second intervals.

3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon or so of melted chocolate into each cavity of the round mold. Using the back of a spoon, spread the chocolate around and up the sides of the mold. Refrigerate until set. (I put mine in the freezer for 5-10 minutes.) Using the back of a spoon or pastry brush, add a bit more of the melted chocolate around the top edge and any weak spots that were not adequately coated previously. Refrigerate again until set. Carefully remove the half spheres from the mold. (If you want a demonstration of how to make the chocolate spheres, I suggest you check out YouTube. There are many videos showing how this is done. Just search for Hot Chocolate Bombs.)

4. Heat a ceramic or heat-safe plate in a low oven (about 160 degrees F). Very carefully invert a chocolate half sphere onto the warm plate and twist briefly, just long enough to smooth out the edge.

5. Fill the half sphere with 2 tablespoons of the hot cocoa mix and, if desired, add sugar free mini marshmallows and any other ingredients to create unique flavors (see list below).

6. Take the remaining empty half sphere, hold the edge to the warm plate to begin melting the chocolate and quickly place on top of the filled half sphere to create a ball. Refrigerate until the seam has set.

7. Decorate the Hot Chocolate Bomb as desired. (When I drizzled chocolate on the top to decorate, I turned the chocolate bomb so the seam was up and drizzled the chocolate over the seam to strengthen it.)

8. To make hot chocolate using a Hot Chocolate Bomb, place the bomb into a mug and carefully pour very hot milk of your choice over the bomb (try to concentrate the hot liquid in one spot, if you can, to hasten the melting of the outer shell). Stir until the melted chocolate and hot cocoa mix is thoroughly incorporated and enjoy! (Check out my YouTube video below to see the bomb in action!)

7 Different Keto Flavor Ideas:

Peppermint Bark: I used Lily’s White Chocolate Peppermint baking chips to make the outer shell. I filled it with 2 tablespoons of hot cocoa mix, 3 drops of peppermint extract and some crushed sugar free peppermint candies.

Chocolate Peanut Butter: I used Lily’s milk chocolate baking chips for the outer shell. I filled it with 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon of hot chocolate mix and 2 teaspoons peanut butter powder (no sugar added).

Mexican Chocolate: Milk or dark chocolate outer shell. Fill with 2 tablespoons hot cocoa mix, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 3 drops of cinnamon extract.

White Chocolate Ginger: Use Lily’s white chocolate baking chips to make the outer shell. Fill with 2 tablespoons of my white chocolate powder (click here for the recipe), ground ginger and a few drops of pumpkin spice extract or gingerbread candy flavoring drops.

Black and White: I made the outer shell with 1/2 white chocolate sphere and 1/2 dark chocolate sphere. Fill with 1 tablespoon hot cocoa mix and 1 tablespoon white chocolate powder.

Mocha: Chocolate outer shell. Fill with 2 tablespoons hot cocoa mix and 1 teaspoon instant coffee.

Chocolate Mint: I used Lily’s Chocolate Mint baking chips to make the outer shell. Fill with 2 tablespoons hot cocoa mix and a couple of drops of mint extract.

Nutritional information will vary, depending on the ingredients you use.

Photos and video by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2020

All rights reserved. Please do not duplicate without the author’s permission.

Low Carb White Chocolate Peppermint Cake

It is official. This is one of the best sugar free, low carb cakes I’ve ever made! Upon tasting it, my daughter declared, “It tastes like peppermint ice cream but in cake form!” Every year, I make a special dessert to go with our simple dinner of Christmas Eve Soup...the votes have been counted and this cake is the winner!

Low Carb White Chocolate Peppermint Cake

Makes 12 servings

Cake Ingredients:

96 grams coconut flour (about 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons)

2/3 cup granulated erythritol sweetener 

1/3 cup unflavored whey protein powder

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

4 large eggs, room temperature 

4 egg whites, room temperature

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

4 ounces sugar free white chocolate baking chips (use Lily’s peppermint flavor, if possible)

1/4 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup coconut milk, room temperature 

1 teaspoon vanilla extract 

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (add 1/4 tsp if not using peppermint chips)

Peppermint Frosting Ingredients:

8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature 

3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (1-1/2 sticks)

8 ounces plain mascarpone cheese, room temperature 

1 cup powdered erythritol sweetener (confectioner’s)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract 

1 teaspoon peppermint extract 

2-4 tablespoons heavy cream (only if needed)

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two 8” round cake pans (or three 6” round cake pans). Line with parchment paper and grease the parchment paper. (Optional, but for best results, wrap the outside of the pans with homemade cake bands made from wet newspaper strips wrapped in foil or use commercially available cake pan bands. Using cake pan bands are not necessary, but will keep the edges from browning too much and results in a softer, more tender cake. To learn more about using cake pan bands, click here.)

2. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until simmering. Remove from heat and add the 4 ounces white chocolate baking chips. Allow to sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth. Set aside to cool a bit while you make the cake batter.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the coconut flour, sweetener, whey protein powder, baking powder and salt until no lumps remain. In a large bowl and using an electric mixer, beat the eggs, egg whites, melted butter, white chocolate mixture, coconut milk and extracts until well combined. Add the dry ingredients and beat just until there are no lumps and the batter is smooth.

4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth to the edges with an offset spatula or back of a spoon. Bake for 30-35 minutes until lightly browned around the edges, the tops are slightly firm to the touch and a toothpick in the center comes out clean. (If using 6-inch pans, check the cakes after 20-25 minutes.)

5. Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10-15 minutes before running a sharp knife around the edges and turning out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting. (Note that coconut flour cakes are very delicate when warm, so cooling in the pans for a while makes them easier to handle.)

6. To make the frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter and mascarpone cheese until fluffy. Add the powdered erythritol sweetener and extracts and continue beating. If your frosting is too stiff, add one tablespoon of heavy cream at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Frost your cake and decorate as desired. Store your cake in the refrigerator, but the taste is best if allowed to sit at room temperature for at least 20 minutes before cutting and serving.

Nutritional Information per serving (1/12th of cake, no frosting): 130 calories, 6.9 g carbohydrate (3.2 g dietary fiber, 1 g sugars, 2 g sugar alcohols), 9.3 g total fat (5.7 f saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 79 mg cholesterol, 203 mg sodium, 108 mg calcium, 53 mg potassium, 86 IU Vit A, 1 mg iron, 5.6 g protein. Net carbs per serving, without frosting: 3.7 grams

Nutritional Information per serving (1/12th of cake with frosting): 394 calories, 10.1 g carbohydrate (3.2 g dietary fiber, 1.6 g sugars, 2.7 g sugar alcohols), 35.6 g total fat (22.5 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 157 mg cholesterol, 321 mg sodium, 130.6 mg calcium, 56 mg potassium, 258 IU Vit A, 1 mg iron, 9 g protein. Net carbs per serving, with frosting: 6.9 grams

Photos and recipe by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2020

All rights reserved. Please do not duplicate without the author’s permission. 

Low Carb White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

This holiday season, I’m having so much fun creating recipes that highlight my favorite white chocolate peppermint flavor! These cookies are so light, elegant and delicious. My low carb peppermint candy sprinkles (see recipe here) make them festive and fun, adding beautiful color and the distinctive taste of candy canes!

Low Carb White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Makes 24 cookies

1-1/2 cups finely ground almond flour (substitute sunflower seed flour or finely ground macadamia nut flour for low oxalate)

1/4 cup coconut flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum powder

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)

2/3 cup powdered erythritol sweetener

1 large egg, room temperature 

1 tablespoon coconut milk, room temperature 

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (add an additional 1/4 tsp if not using peppermint baking chips)

2/3 cup sugar free white chocolate baking chips (if you have Lily’s peppermint flavor, that’s even better, see photo below)

1/2 cup Low Carb Peppermint Candy Sprinkles (see separate recipe here), divided

White Chocolate Glaze:

1 cup sugar free white chocolate baking chips

2 teaspoons refined coconut oil

1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract (omit if using peppermint flavored chips)

1. Before making the cookie dough, make a batch of Low Carb Peppermint Candy Sprinkles (recipe here); set aside. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F and position the racks in the center of the oven. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour (or low oxalate flour substitute of your choice), coconut flour, baking powder, xanthan gum powder and salt; set aside.

3. Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and powdered sweetener until light and fluffy. Add the egg, coconut milk and extracts and continue mixing until well combined.

4. Add the flour mixture and continue mixing until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Fold in the sugar free white chocolate chips and 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons of the Low Carb Peppermint Candy Sprinkles until evenly distributed. (Save the remaining sprinkles to decorate the cookies later.)

5. Using a small cookie scoop, create 24 balls of dough and space them at least 2 inches apart on your prepared cookie sheets. Press down and flatten each ball with your hand until about 1/4 inch in thickness. (The cookies will not spread during baking.)

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-13 minutes, turning and switching the position of each cookie sheet in the middle of baking time. Bake until the edges are golden. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the cookie sheets for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

7. To make the glaze, place the baking chips and coconut oil in a microwave safe bowl and microwave for 15 seconds on high. Allow the chips to sit for a few minutes and then stir. If additional melting is needed, microwave in 6 second intervals. (You may also melt the baking chips in a double boiler over barely simmering water.)

8. Dip 1/2 of each cookie into the glaze and/or drizzle the glaze over the cookies. While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle with the remaining Low Carb Peppermint Candy Sprinkles. Allow the glaze to set before serving. (To hasten the process, you may refrigerate the cookies for 10 minutes.) Store cookies at room temperature for up to a week.

Note: This recipe, without the sprinkles and chips folded in, makes an excellent dough for rolling out and cutting with cookie cutters!

Nutritional Information per cookie: 120 calories, 3.8 g carbohydrate (1.7 g dietary fiber, 0.9 g sugars), 11.9 g total fat (4 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 18 mg cholesterol, 55 mg sodium, 12.2 mg calcium, 40 mg potassium, 38 IU Vit A, 1.2 g protein. Net carbs per cookie: 2.1 grams

Photos and recipe by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2020

All rights reserved. Please do not duplicate without the author’s permission. 

Keto Hot White Chocolate Peppermint Cocoa

The mornings and evenings are colder, which puts me in the mood for hot chocolate! This version uses white chocolate chips (either in peppermint flavor or plain) to create a delicious warming beverage that has a flavor reminiscent of Peppermint Bark. Perfect for any time of day, but especially at night, because there’s no caffeine...just pure, delicately sweet white chocolate and peppermint!

Keto Hot White Chocolate Peppermint Cocoa

Makes 1 serving

1-1/4 cups unsweetened coconut milk

2 tablespoons heavy cream

A tiny pinch of salt

2 tablespoons sugar free white chocolate chips (I used Lily’s Peppermint baking chips, see below*)

2-3 drops peppermint extract, or to taste

1/4 teaspoon chocolate or vanilla extract

6-7 drops monkfruit extract or liquid stevia, or to taste

1. Heat the coconut milk, heavy cream, pinch of salt and white chocolate chips in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the chips are melted and the mixture is hot and bubbly around the edges.

2. Remove from heat and add the extracts and sweetener. Stir to combine.

3. If you have one, use a frothing tool to create foam and pour into a mug. If desired, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed sugar free peppermint candies. Serve immediately. 

*Note: I used Lily’s sugar free Peppermint Flavor baking chips, which are available for a limited time at WalMart. If you can’t find them, just use any sugar free white chocolate chips and add enough peppermint extract to achieve the peppermint flavor you desire.

Nutritional Information: 168 calories, 4.4 g carbohydrate (1.5 g dietary fiber, 0.6 g sugars), 17 g total fat (8.3 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 42 mg cholesterol, 215 mg sodium, 572.6 mg calcium, 19 mg potassium, 120 IU Vit A, 1.4 g protein. Net carbs per serving: 2.9 grams

Photos and recipe by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2020

All rights reserved. Please do not duplicate without the author’s permission. 

Low Carb Peppermint Candy Sprinkles

I’m getting ready to make some holiday and winter desserts that call for crushed peppermint candy as an ingredient or decoration. There are sugar free peppermint candies available, but they contain a type of sugar alcohol (isomalt, mannitol, sorbitol or maltitol) that causes painful and embarrassing digestive issues! That’s not the kind of holiday gift I want for myself or to share with family or friends, so I avoid all sugar free candies with these offending sweeteners. Because I need peppermint candies in recipes, I decided to create a suitable substitute. This recipe is the result of my experimentation and, because it contains a small amount of real crushed candy canes combined with the coconut, it really does taste like crushed peppermint candies! I am so pleased with these sprinkles and look forward to the many delicious creations I’ll be making with them. 

Low Carb Peppermint Candy Sprinkles

Makes 1/2 cup (24 servings)

1/2 cup finely shredded unsweetened coconut (I used Bob’s Red Mill)

4 drops red food coloring

4 drops monkfruit extract or liquid stevia, or to taste

5 drops pepperment extract, or to taste

2 mini peppermint candy canes, crushed (I used candy canes made with real sugar)

In a small bowl, stir together all of the ingredients until well combined. Store in an airtight container at room temperature. 

Nutritional Information per 1 teaspoon: 14 calories, 0.8 g carbohydrate (0.2 g dietary fiber, 0.4 g sugars), 1.1 g total fat (1 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 1 mg sodium, 0.1 g protein. Net carbs per serving: 0.6 grams

Photo and recipe by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2020

All Rights Reserved. Please do not duplicate without the author’s permission. 

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Chaffle Cake

Wherever you go at this time of year, you’ll see boxes of Peppermint Bark candy. The combination of chocolate, vanilla or white chocolate with peppermint is a classic holiday treat. This low carb chaffle cake will definitely please anyone who loves this flavor combo. The sugar free peppermint candy sprinkled on top of the finished cake gives it a festive look. This triple-layer, mini cake is perfect for sharing a bit of Christmas cheer with your best friend!

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Chaffle Cake

Makes 2 servings

Chaffle Ingredients:

1 large egg, room temperature

2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (or substitute sour cream)

1 tablespoon dark cocoa powder, unsweetened

2 tablespoons almond flour

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

2 teaspoons monkfruit-erythritol sweetener, granulated

1/8 teaspoon instant coffee powder (optional)

8 drops monkfruit extract (or add another teaspoon of granulated sweetener)

1/4 teaspoon pure peppermint extract

1 teaspoon water

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:

1 ounce cream cheese, softened

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

3 tablespoons powdered erythritol sweetener

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 1/2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream (plus more, if needed)

Chocolate Peppermint Ganache: (see *Note)

4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream

3 tablespoons sugar free dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/4 teaspoon pure peppermint extract

Additional heavy cream, if needed

Topping:

1 teaspoon sugar free peppermint candy, crushed into small pieces

1. Preheat a mini waffle maker. (If using a larger waffle maker, you will need to double or triple this recipe.)

2. Mix together all of the chaffle ingredients and whisk until a smooth batter forms. Divide the mixture into thirds and spoon about 3-4 tablespoons of the batter onto the heated waffle maker. Close the lid and cook for 3 to 3 1/2 minutes. Remove chaffle to a wire rack to cool completely while you make two more chaffles. (This recipe makes 3 mini waffles.)

3. To make the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting, whip together the softened cream cheese and butter using a handheld or standing mixer until well combined. Beat in the sweetener and vanilla extract, then add the heavy cream 1 tablespoon at a time until a spreadable consistency is achieved. 

4. To make the Chocolate Peppermint Ganache, heat the heavy whipping cream in a small bowl and microwave in 15 second intervals until the cream is very hot and beginning to bubble around the edges. (You can also heat the cream in a small saucepan on the stove.) Add the chocolate chips and allow to sit for 5-8 minutes until the chocolate has melted, then whisk until smooth. Add the peppermint extract and stir to combine. If your ganache is too thick, add 1-2 teaspoons of hot cream and whisk until it is pourable. If needed, you can reheat for 6-8 seconds in the microwave, but do not allow the mixture to boil.

5. To assemble cake: Place one chaffle onto a plate, spread with about 1/3 of the buttercream frosting and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of ganache. Top with a second layer and spread with frosting and drizzle with ganache. Finally, add the last layer, spread with the remaining frosting and drizzle with 1-2 tablespoons of ganache and sprinkle the top with 1 teaspoon of crushed sugar free peppermint candy. 

6. The cake can be served immediately or cover in an airtight container and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before serving.

*Note: This recipe for ganache makes more than you will need, so set the remaining aside for another use. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in the microwave for about 10 seconds.

Nutritional Information per 1/2 cake: 446 calories, 6.9 g carbohydrates (2.4 g dietary fiber, 1.1 g sugars), 44.4 g total fat (25 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 214 mg cholesterol, 209 mg sodium, 75 mg calcium, 43 mg potassium, 411 mg Vit A, 2 g iron, 7.7 g protein. Net carb per serving: 4.5 grams

Photo and recipe by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2019

All rights reserved. Please do not duplicate without the author’s permission. 

Dark Chocolate with Cool Peppermint Fat Bombs

It’s almost Halloween and I saw a commercial on the television for one of my favorite childhood candies, the Peppermint Patty. It made me start wondering whether I could recreate a sugar-free, low carb candy with the same dark chocolate and strong peppermint flavor. These fat bombs definitely fit the bill! Coconut oil comes either unrefined or refined. I used refined because I didn’t want the taste of coconut to interfere with the other flavors. Also, you can adjust the peppermint extract to your taste, but I like the intense, mouth-cooling experience that only a strong peppermint flavor can give. These are excellent as an after dinner mint, late afternoon snack to give you a boost of energy and, when stirred into a hot cup of coffee, they turn it into a wonderful mocha mint bullet proof coffee! I usually keep fat bombs in my refrigerator at all times and these have become my new favorite.

Dark Chocolate with Cool Peppermint Fat Bombs

Makes 12 candies

5 ounces (about 3/4 cup) no sugar added chocolate chips (such as Lily’s Dark Chocolate Baking Chips sweetened with stevia and erythritol)

1/4 cup coconut oil

2 teaspoons heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon pure peppermint extract, or to taste

3 drops food-grade peppermint essential oil (optional)

3-4 drops monkfruit extract or stevia, or to taste

Place the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave on high in 30 second intervals until the chips are melted. Add the heavy cream, peppermint extract and monkfruit or stevia drops. Stir with a whisk until well combined and the mixture is smooth.

Divide the chocolate mixture equally between 12 silicone mini muffin cups, approximately 1 tablespoon per muffin cup. (If you have candy molds, you can make some fun shapes. See photo below.) Refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes. (You can put them in the freezer for about 10 minutes to speed up the firming process.) Store the candies in the refrigerator.

Nutritional Information per fat bomb: 84 calories, 7.5 g total carbohydrate (3.3 g dietary fiber, 0 g sugars, 2.5 g sugar alcohols), 8.6 g total fat (4.1 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 1 mg cholesterol, 0 mg sodium, 0.8 g protein. Net impact carbs: 1.5 grams

Recipe and photos by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2018

All rights reserved. Please do not duplicate without the author’s permission.

Low Carb Banana Milk (and other Flavored Milks)

When I was a little girl, it was always a treat when my Mom made me Vanilla Milk, which was basically milk with vanilla extract added. Where I live in Maine, flavored milks are all the rage. The dairy shelf is lined with them: Banana, Coffee, Strawberry and, of course, Chocolate. There are so many flavors available, it makes my head spin! This low carb version actually starts with unsweetened almond, coconut or cashew milk, which is then flavored with extracts. To make it richer, I add a splash of heavy cream and give it a spin in my blender until it’s frothy. It’s a fat bomb you can sip through a straw and tastes like melted ice cream! It’s delicious for breakfast (especially the Coffee Milk), as a snack or dessert. The carb count is so low, you can enjoy this treat anytime.

Low Carb Banana Milk

Makes 1 serving

1/2 cup unsweetened almond, coconut or cashew milk

1 cup cold water

2 tablespoons heavy cream

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon banana extract, or to taste

5 drops of LaKanto Monkfruit or stevia sweetener, to taste

1/2 cup ice cubes

Place all of the ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth and frothy. Enjoy cold.

Nutritional Information per serving: 128 calories, 0.8 g carbohydrate (0.5 g dietary fiber, 0 g sugars), 13.8 g total fat (7.5 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 40 mg cholesterol, 73 mg sodium, 3 mg potassium, 225 mg Vit A, 0.5 g protein. 

Other Milk Flavor Variations:

Coffee Milk: In place of the cold water, substitute 1 cup of brewed strong coffee and omit the banana extract.

Chocolate Peppermint Milk: Substitute chocolate and peppermint extracts (I like to add a few leaves from my Chocolate Mint plant!). This would be great made with coffee as a base, too.

Orange Cream Milk: Substitute orange oil or extract for the banana extract.

Salted Caramel Milk: Substitute caramel extract (or flavoring) for the banana and add a pinch of salt to taste.

Maple Milk: Substitute maple extract to taste.

Bullet Proof Milk: To any flavor, add 1 tablespoon MCT or coconut oil. This adds about 100 calories and 12 g of fat to the nutritional information; the carbs and protein stays the same. A Bullet Proof Milk makes a quick and easy meal replacement.

Probiotic Milk: To any flavor, add 2 tablespoons unsweetened, plain yogurt or kefir. This adds about 18 calories, 0.5 g carbohydrate, 1 g of fat and 1 g of protein.

??? Make up your own! Use whatever extracts you have on hand. Kids especially enjoy coming up with their favorite milk flavors.

Recipe and photo by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2018

All rights reserved. Please do not duplicate without the author’s permission.

Low Carb Chocolate Mint Snaps (Spritz Cookie)

I hate to do this to the industrious Girl Scouts peddling their wares right now but, if you like their Thin Mint Cookies, then you’ll love my amazing gluten free, low carb, sugar free version just as much! I mean, really...chocolate and peppermint, what’s not to love? The addition of a small amount of arrowroot starch is the secret ingredient that gives these cookies their crispy crunch. (Right out of the oven, they’ll be soft, but will crisp up upon cooling.) To make these beautifully shaped cookies, I used a cookie press (spritz cookie press), but that’s completely optional. If you don’t have one, just roll the dough into balls and then flatten with your hand. That works just as well. Refreshing and bursting with cool mint flavor, these cookies are one of my new favorites!

Low Carb Chocolate Mint Snaps (Spritz Cookies)

Makes about 32 cookies

1-1/2 cups almond flour

2 tablespoons coconut flour

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 tablespoon arrowroot starch

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 cup butter, softened (4 oz or 1 stick)

1/2 cup granulated erythritol sweetener

3/4 teaspoon stevia powder (I used SweetLeaf brand)

1 large egg

1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract, or to taste

About 1/4 cup sugar-free chocolate chips, enough for 5 chips per cookie (I used Lily’s brand)

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two cookie sheets with silicone pan liners or parchment paper. (Note: If you plan to use a cookie press and don’t have silicone liners, omit the parchment paper and leave the cookie sheets ungreased for easier dough release from the press.) Set pans aside.

2. In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the almond flour, coconut flour, cocoa powder, arrowroot starch, baking powder and salt. Stir with a fork to combine and remove any lumps. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl and using a handheld or standing electric mixer, beat the softened butter until fluffy. Add the erythritol and stevia and beat until creamed together and well combined. Add egg and peppermint extract and beat again until combined. Gradually add the flour mixture into the butter mixture and beat until well incorporated.

4. Fill your cookie press and, with the desired disks, press cookies onto the cookie sheets. If you don’t have a cookie press, roll dough into 1-inch balls and flatten with your hand until the dough is about 1/4-inch thick. Top each cookie with 5 sugar free chocolate chips in any pattern you desire.

5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will crisp up as they cool. Store at room temperature in an airtight container.

Nutritional Information per cookie: 69 calories, 4.5 g carbohydrate (1.4 g dietary fiber, 0.2 g sugars, 3.4 g sugar alcohols), 6.3 g total fat (2.1 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 13 mg cholesterol, 49 mg sodium, 18.4 mg calcium, 41 mg potassium, 1 mg iron, 97 mg Vit A, 1.7 g protein. Net carbs per cookie: 3.2 grams

Recipe and photos by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2018

All rights reserved. Please do not duplicate without the author’s permission.

Raspberry Chocolate Chip Kefir Ice Cream or Pops

This creamy low carb dessert is such a treat and another great way to incorporate more natural, probiotic-rich food into your diet. It's made with frozen organic raspberries (or fresh) that are both low on the glycemic scale and high in antioxidants. To make it extra creamy, I drained the whey out of my homemade kefir, or you can use store bought, to create kefir cheese. (Recipe for making kefir at home can be found here.) To make kefir or yogurt cheese, simply line a strainer with two unbleached coffee filters, set it over a bowl, fill the strainer with plain kefir (or plain unsweetened yogurt, but not Greek) and allow to drain in the refrigerator overnight.  When the thickened, cream cheese-like kefir cheese is added to the kefir with the full-fat coconut milk, the result is a super luscious and decadent frozen treat.  If you want to have a festive ice cream for the holidays, simply add some peppermint extract or a few drops of dietary-grade peppermint essential oil to the mix.  I've had it both ways and it is delightful!

Raspberry Chocolate Chip Kefir Ice Cream

Makes 6 servings (1/2 cup each)

3/4 cup fresh or frozen raspberries

1/2 cup kefir cheese (or yogurt cheese)

1/2 cup plain unsweetened kefir

1 cup full-fat coconut milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener (or erythritol sweetener)

1/2 teaspoon stevia powder (I used Sweetleaf brand) or to taste

3 tablespoons chopped dark chocolate (85% cacao or higher)

For optional peppermint flavor, add 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract or 2-3 drops dietary grade peppermint essential oil, or to taste

1. In a blender, blend together the raspberries, kefir cheese, kefir, coconut milk, vanilla, sweeteners and peppermint extract or oil, if using, until smooth.  Taste mixture and add more sweetener, if desired. If you used fresh raspberries, refrigerate mixture for at least one hour before proceeding. Chop the dark chocolate and set aside.

2. Churn the ice cream according to the manufacturer's instructions for your ice cream maker, adding the chopped chocolate at the appropriate time.  Serve immediately or freeze for a few minutes until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. Put any leftovers into ice pop molds and freeze to serve later. (This is best served as soft-serve ice cream.  If allowed to freeze completely, it will be too firm to scoop, so making ice pops is the best way to use leftover ice cream.)

Nutritional Information per 1/2 cup serving: 193 calories, 7.6 g carbohydrate (1.3 g dietary fiber, 4.8 g sugars, 2 g sugar alcohols), 18.1 g total fat (11.6 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 20 mg cholesterol, 36 mg sodium, 71.1 mg calcium, 24 mg potassium, 2.3 g protein.  Net carbs per serving: 6.3 grams

Recipe by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2015

Peppermint Bark Cake

On Christmas Eve, it is a tradition in our family to have a simple meal of soup, salad and rolls. The idea is to make things easy and restful before the big day and allow us to attend evening church services without the hassle of preparing a large meal. With that simple fare, I always like to prepare a very special and memorable dessert, since it is usually the highlight of the meal. This year, I was inspired by the Chocolate-Peppermint Bark candy that is a holiday favorite of many and transformed it into a cake that sparkles with peppermint crystals!

If you're making this ahead, sprinkle the candy on top just before serving to preserve it's sparkle and freshness. To create the peppermint crystals, I broke four ½-ounce candy canes into a plastic bag and gently hammered them with the smooth side of my meat mallet (or use the side of a rolling pin) until they were the size I wanted. I removed 2 tablespoons and reserve it for the topping, then continued hammering until the candy was finely crushed (this I used in the batter).

This beautiful dessert not only makes a festive centerpiece, it is rich and decadent. The dark chocolate cake is fudge-like with the slightest hint of peppermint, the filling is creamy and the white chocolate topping is smooth and delicious. The grand finale is the sweet, minty crunch from the crushed candy canes. I already know it will be a hit with my family this year. (From sampling my "test cake," my non-diabetic husband has declared this the best recipe I've created so far!) I hope it will be enjoyed by your family, as well. Merry Christmas!

Peppermint Bark Cake
(Makes 12 servings)

Cake Ingredients:
¾ cup almond milk
1 oz. unsweetened or bittersweet baking chocolate (1 square), chopped
¾ teaspoon instant coffee granules (decaf or regular)
1¼ cups almond flour (or finely ground almonds)
¾ cup all purpose flour
½ cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons finely crushed peppermint candies
6 tablespoons butter, softened
¼ cup sugar
3 large eggs
One 2.5 oz. container of baby food prune puree (about 3 tablespoons)
1 cup Splenda granular
¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Cream Filling Ingredients:
1½ tablespoons cocoa powder
½ cup almond milk (original or unsweetened)
½ cup mascarpone cheese
3½ tablespoons Splenda granular
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons fat-free, sugar-free chocolate fudge instant pudding mix (dry powder)

Topping Ingredients:
1½ tablespoons almond milk (or fat-free ½ & ½ can be substituted)
½ cup white chocolate morsels
2 tablespoons crushed peppermint candies

1. Prepare an 8" springform cake pan by placing a circle cut from parchment or wax paper in the bottom of the pan and spray sides with non-stick cooking spray; set aside. In a small saucepan, heat ¾ cup almond milk over medium-low heat to scalding or microwave on high for 60-90 seconds. Remove from heat and add the roughly chopped unsweetened baking chocolate square and instant coffee granules; stir until melted and smooth. Allow to cool for 20 minutes before proceeding; meanwhile preheat oven to 350-degrees and assemble the remaining cake ingredients.

2. In a small mixing bowl, sift together the flours, ½ cup cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt and 3 tablespoons finely crushed peppermint candies; set aside. In a large mixing bowl and using a handheld or standing mixer, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the prune puree, Splenda and extracts. Beat until well incorporated, stopping to scrape down sides of bowl at least once. Alternate adding the dry ingredients ½ cup at a time and the cooled milk and chocolate mixture until well combined, scraping down sides of bowl occasionally.

3. Spoon into prepared cake pan and bake for 38-42 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool in pan for 10 minutes. Carefully remove cake from pan and move to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Meanwhile make chocolate cream filling by first melting the 1½ tablespoons cocoa powder in almond milk over low heat or in the microwave for about 45-60 seconds on high. Stir to incorporate cocoa into milk. Set aside until cooled to room temperature. (If desired, place in refrigerator to hasten cooling.) Place mascarpone cheese in a large mixing bowl and add cooled almond milk mixture. Beat with a handheld or standing mixer on high until well combined and mixture is light and fluffy (it will resemble whipped cream). Add Splenda, extract and continue to beat until incorporated. Add the 2 tablespoons of chocolate instant pudding powder and beat well. Place in refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to set. With a serrated knife, cut cake into two layers. Stir chocolate pudding mixture before spreading onto lower half of cake. Top with top layer; set aside.

5. To make white chocolate topping, heat 1½ tablespoons milk and morsels in microwave for 15 seconds on high. Repeat if necessary. Allow to sit for 1-2 minutes. Stir until morsels are melted and mixture is smooth; set aside to cool. Mixture will thicken as it cools. To hasten cooling, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes until the consistency of a very thick, but pourable glaze, stirring occasionally.

6. Pour white chocolate topping onto the center of the top layer of cake and spread to edges if it doesn't spread out to cover top of cake and allow it to drip over the sides. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons crushed peppermint candies. Allow topping to cool completely and set. Store in refrigerator, but allow to stand at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information per serving (1/12th of cake): 325 calories, 31.3 g carbohydrate, 21 g total fat, 9.2 g saturated fat, 3.5 g fiber, 6.8 g protein.

Original recipe by Kathy Sheehan, copyright 2010

How does this cake recipe compare with a traditionally prepared cake? I've substituted almond flour for a large portion of the white flour and eliminated most of the high-carb sugar. These substitutions alone make a huge difference! For comparison, the same size serving of a similar cake made with traditional ingredients is 489.5 calories, 78.7 g carbohydrate, 24 g total fat, 14 g saturated fat, 2.2 g fiber and 4.8 g protein.