Calling all nut butter lovers and dessert enthusiasts! Today, we're bringing you a recipe that's both delightful and addictive: Pistachio & Almond Pods. Don't let the name fool you – these aren't your average plant pods. They're bite-sized bundles of flavour and texture that are guaranteed to disappear fast, just like they did in our house (they only lasted a whole 2 days!).
The Delicious Duo: Pistachio & Almond Butter
The star of this recipe is, of course, our very own 99th Monkey Pistachio & Almond Butter. This creamy spread combines the rich nuttiness of almonds with the subtle sweetness and earthiness of pistachios, creating a unique flavour profile that elevates the entire dessert experience.
More Than Just a Base: The Power of the Biscuit Base
These pods aren't all about the fillings. The biscuit base plays a crucial role in providing a delicious foundation for the layered goodness. Made with a combination of almond meal, rolled oats, and 99th Monkey Pistachio & Almond Butter, this base offers a satisfyingly crumbly texture with a hint of nutty flavour that perfectly complements the fillings.
A Symphony of Flavours: Unveiling the Layers
The beauty of this recipe lies in its layer upon layer of deliciousness. Let's delve into the flavour fiesta:
- Honey Caramel: This layer adds a touch of sweetness and a delightful gooey texture. Blended with dates and 99th Monkey Pistachio & Almond Butter, it's a flavour explosion that perfectly bridges the gap between the nutty base and the rich chocolate topping.
- Decadent Chocolate: No dessert is complete without a touch of chocolate! Here, melted milk chocolate provides a luxurious finish, adding a touch of indulgence to every bite.
The Art of Layering: Creating the Perfect Pod
This recipe might seem complex with its layers, but don't worry! It's surprisingly easy to create these delightful treats. Here's what you'll need to get started:
Ingredients:
For the Biscuit Base:
- ¾ cup almond meal
- ¼ cup 99th Monkey Pistachio & Almond Butter
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons honey
For the Caramel Layer:
- 10-14 pitted dates
- 2 tablespoons 99th Monkey Pistachio & Almond Butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup date water (optional)
For the Chocolate Layer:
- Desired amount of milk chocolate
Equipment:
- Food processor
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Silicone muffin tray (mini size)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven & Prep the Dates: Before you start creating your pods, preheat your oven to 180°C (170°C fan forced). Simultaneously, place the pitted dates in hot water for 10 minutes to soften them.
- Building the Biscuit Base: Whip out your trusty food processor. Add the almond meal, 99th Monkey Pistachio & Almond Butter, and rolled oats into the bowl. Blitz everything together until it forms a dough-like consistency.
- Forming the Pods: Grab your mini silicone muffin tray and get ready to create the base. Using a teaspoon, scoop a portion of the dough mixture and press it into the bottom of each muffin cup, ensuring it covers the base evenly.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 5-10 minutes. The ideal baking time depends on your desired texture. For a softer base, aim for 5 minutes. For a slightly crunchier base, go for 10 minutes.
- Caramel Magic: While your base is baking, it's time to create the caramel layer. Add the softened dates, 99th Monkey Pistachio & Almond Butter, vanilla extract, and date water (if using) to your food processor. Blitz everything together until you achieve a smooth, slightly runny consistency.
- Shaping the Pods (Part 2): Take the baked biscuit base out of the oven and let it cool slightly. While still warm and pliable, gently press down on the center of each base to create a small well. This will be the perfect spot for your delectable caramel filling. Once shaped, pop the tray back in the fridge to cool completely.
- Caramel Bliss: Now for the fun part! Once the base is cool, carefully spoon the caramel layer into each pod, filling the well you created earlier.
- Chocolatey Dreams: The grand finale – the chocolate layer! Melt your desired amount of milk chocolate using the microwave method (30-second intervals, stirring in between) or a double boiler.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Here comes the fun part! Once the chocolate is melted and smooth, drizzle it generously over the top of each caramel-filled pod.
- Freeze & Enjoy: Now comes the waiting game (well, a short one!). Place the tray in the freezer for 1-2 hours to allow the chocolate to set completely.
The Final Bite: More Than Just a Snack
The Pistachio & Almond Pod is more than just a delicious treat. It's a testament to the power of creativity and the joy of homemade snacks. Feel free to personalise this recipe, experiment with different toppings (think chopped nuts, dried fruit, or a sprinkle of sea salt), and share your creations with friends and family.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a journey of delicious pod-making. Remember, the most important ingredient is your own creativity! With these pods, you'll be satisfying cravings, fuelling your day, and creating memories that will linger long after the last bite is gone. Now, go forth and pod-erize!
