Gluten/Grain-Free Paleo Cupcakes

Okay. Okay. Some folks would say that I shouldn't be trying to make Paleo treats. But, I couldn't help myself. Some members of the Paleo Community think that it goes against the grain to try to recreate foods that are unhealthy, ie cupcakes. In fact, some think that if you want something that isn't Paleo, you should probably just cheat and have the real deal. While, I agree with that statement, I don't always think it is necessary to cheat. For example, Zucchini Lasagna or Philly Cheese-steak stuffed peppers.  Recreating with out the cheating! I see nothing wrong with this. In fact, I am all for recreating our favorite foods in a healthy way. A year ago, I never would have thought to make a lasagna using zucchini. Turns out, I prefer it over traditional lasagna. It has the same great taste, but leaves me without the stomach ache. Win, win. Right?

I made 2 versions of the topping, one is a traditional Paleo version and the other is a dairy-version. Some Paleo folks introduce things like dairy, beans, or even potatoes back into their diet after a period of detoxification. I am one of those people. While I do not eat dairy often, I occasionally will have some heavy whipping cream or Parmesan cheese. I don't believe in limiting myself so much, that I begin to focus on the things that I "eliminate" from my diet. Enough back story, let's make some Paleo, Gluten-Free, cupcakes!

350° || 20 minutes

Chocolate Paleo Cupcakes

 Yields 6-8 cupcakes

1/4 cup coconut flour

3-4 tbsp. cocoa

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. baking soda

3 large eggs

1/2 cup liquid sweetener ie maple syrup, agave nectar, or honey

Optional: dairy-free chocolate chips

Combine all dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. Next, add liquid ingredients and combine very well leaving no lumps. You can use a mixer, but I just used a whisk. Fill your cupcake liners 1/2 full and bake 350º for 20 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. 

Paleo Chocolate Frosting

 1/2 cup coconut oil

2-3 tbsp liquid sweetener

1/4 cup cocoa

1-2 tbsp. coconut milk

Combine all ingredients and combine well. Note: this frosting will melt if left at room temperature too long. 

Whipped Dairy Topping

 1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 tbsp. liquid sweetener 

Combine all ingredients and whip until soft peaks.