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Tag Archives: Sweets

Massachusetts Day-Venture (Part Two)

20 May

I love Salem to pieces. Many of ya’ll know that.20130518_122217I love the goodies I find. Like a cafe au lait chocolate from Maria’s Sweet Somethings.20130518_121541Or some pumpkin pie soda from Pamplemousse.20130518_122608Or grabbing some K-Cups from Wicked Cup.20130518_115924Or just some good ole New England Coffee.20130518_090714And close, by not so, in Peabody there is a Brazilian restaurant called Heaven’s Taste. I love, love, love Brazilian Food. I could live off of it. True Story.20130518_132127I have a lot of new things that are about to happen, but I can’t share them just yet. Let’s just say it’s going to be awesome. I off to study and I hope ya’ll have a fabulous Monday!

Question: What little goodies do you look for in your favorite or a new town? Ice cream, chocolate and post cards are always at the top of my list. Yes, post cards. 

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Posted by on May 20, 2013 in All About Sabrina, Snacks For Munching, Sweets and Treats

 

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A Bit Of Yesterday; A Smidge of Today

13 May

Happy belated Mother’s Day to all the amazing mothers out there. On Sunday I had to go to work, but I woke up early and made my mom this coconut bake with the paleo option.249056_10101564275386450_1671278005_nShe loved it and like I always say, she is a picky eater. I also had her little gifts and a vanilla version of this cupcake. Who doesn’t love a cupcake?20130512_092911My friend/ co-worker asked me to make a sugar-free cake for her family. Isn’t it cute?akeAt work (I work in an Italian specialty market, by the way), they made Italian chocolate covered strawberries. Oh my gawsh, they were delicious. My boss gave me three and I resisted and manged to only eat one and saved the rest for my parents. 20130512_154007I was also made a sandwich; it’s this multi-grain bread they have with maple turkey, romaine, swiss cheese and olive oil. Yes it was wheat, yes I was sluggish. Was it delicious? Oh yeah.20130511_112716Today I actually went to buy a couple of outfits; one for my birthday and one for a concert I am going to on Saturday. It’s a dress of course, but hey, that’s me and my dress addiction. I also got a new workout top. I love that it’s air-y and looks pretty darn good. It was only $10.00 at JC Penny.20130513_182034I haven’t been feeling to great and my body is over-trained. I’ve been cuddling a lot with this guy and I’ve been taking active rest days. I definitely feel better and know tomorrow, I can go hard in my workout.20130512_213612Today I also kind of fasted, in the sense that I didn’t eat much (sorry for the blur!). All I had was fresh fruit, nuts/seeds and oats twice made with flaxmilk and honey. I felt like my body needed to just take a digestive break and I feel better, stomach wise. I don’t like to be below calories so between now and I bed time, I’ll probably munch on more fruit and nuts. Something like that…20130513_194756Question: How was your Mother’s Day weekend? Ever done a fast or detox? If so, which one, how long and how did you feel?

 
3 Comments

Posted by on May 13, 2013 in All About Sabrina, Meal Ideas Made Simple, Sweets and Treats

 

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WIAW #47: Grocery Edition

24 Apr

It’s that time again.

What I Ate Wednesday is here! Head on over to Peas and Crayons to join this crazy awesome food party. For this edition of WIAW, we are going to go a bit into some groceries I bought this week.wiawphotobutton My breakfasts now have consisted of the non-chocolate version of this recipe with a drizzle of maple and sprinkle of trail mix. Oh my heaven!48069_10101552179406890_150544226_nOn to some groceries. Now of course, I do have things already in my pantry/fridge like black beans, organic burgers, flours, etc. I went and grabbed organic soy milk, coffee, pears, nuts/ seeds, organic oats, a Luna bar and chocolate. Can’t forget the chocolate!417787_10101552179352000_1612962632_nOh and this loaf by Ener-G actually tastes good untoasted. Not like that other one. Just ew.IMG_20130415_134605Okay… can you see what I am seeing? Quinoa burgers that are corn and gluten-free! I hope these are good. The other brand I tried was good, but needed to be cooked on the pan. These say I can put them in the toaster. Much easier option.537863_10101552179356990_546462330_nAlong with the burgers, I got some potatoes, string cheese (hormone free!), spinach, eggs, kiwi and ice cream. By the way I found the ice cream in Dollar Tree for… yep. $1.00! I would have bought the five that remained, but I restrained myself. Trust me, was very hard.48038_10101552179347010_1181992886_nMost of my dinners have consisted of black beans, some veggie, potatoes and a protein which usually is an organic turkey or beef burger. I’m back into my black beans and potato phase. Yum, yum!

Question: Any repeats on your menu lately? What are some staples you typically always tend to get everytime you go grocery shopping?

*Last day to enter giveaway (plus adding a goodies not shown) is tomorrow*

 
13 Comments

Posted by on April 24, 2013 in Meal Ideas Made Simple, Snacks For Munching, Tidbits On Healthy Living

 

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Just Some Chocolate Cake!

23 Apr

I love the original recipe, but I wanted something different. This one calls for a bit more ingredients then the original  but I feel that it makes all the difference into tasting even more like a dessert. But yet you can still eat it for breakfast. Guilty, I just did, but not a chocolate one.

For a vanilla version of this recipe, sub the cocoa powder for more flour and increase the vanilla extract to 1/2 tsp. You can even use your favorite vanilla protein powder. I’ve actually used unflavored whey (plus increasing the vanilla extract to 1/2 tsp as well) and it comes out delicious.

This recipes makes two servings, but you can easily eat the whole thing for around 200 calories (with flax seeds, minus chips and frosting). Enjoy!58183_10101550900240350_747036023_nChocolate Cake Ingredients (Inspired by this recipe)

  • 3 Tbsps of [GF] Oat Flour OR All -Purpose Flour (Note: You can use rice flour, but it’s comes out a little more dense)
  • 1 Large Egg’s Egg White
  • 1 Tbsp of Non-Dairy Milk (I used unsweetened vanilla soy milk)
  • 1 Tbsps of Earth Balance Butter, Melted (Or Applesauce, or Oil)
  • 1-2 Packets of Stevia
  • 2 tsps of Pure Maple Syrup (or try agave, honey)
  • 2 Tbsps of Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
  • 1/4 tsp of Vanilla Extract
  • 1/2 tsp of Baking Powder
  • Dash of Salt
  • 1 tsp of Ground Flax Seeds (Optional*)
  • 1 Tbsp of Dark Chocolate Chips (Optional* – mix into the batter before microwaving)
  • Toppings: Chocolate Fudge “Frosting,” chopped nuts, coconut, etc.

Place all wet ingredients into a blender and blend well. The slowly add dry ingredients. Blend again. If you want to add the flax seeds or dark chocolate chips, stir in after blending. Then divide spray down two small microwave safe bowls, mugs or ramekins (I used silicone cupcake liners) with non-stick cooking spray and place cake mixture into sprayed bowl.

Place each bowl in microwave for about 45 seconds- one minute (depending on your microwave). Once done, remove cake from bowl and let cool for about two minutes. Then top it with your favorite frosting or use my chocolate fudge frosting subbing the cocoa powder for chocolate protein powder.

Or if you are making a non-chocolate version, use vanilla or unflavored protein powder. Top with your favorite chopped nuts or coconut flakes and eat!
298036_639676722712558_1484084134_nI even made mini cake pops with this recipe! Simple crumble up the cake, mixing in 1-2 Tbsps of “frosting.” Make into 6-8 balls and add a tooth pick or wooden stick. Melt 1-2 ounces of dark chocolate (or your choice) and dip teach cake pop into chocolate.

Leave cake pop as is or roll into chopped nuts or coconut flakes. Place in fridge for about 30 minutes to let it cool and firm. Remove from fridge and enjoy!

Question: What’s your favorite way to eat cake; slice, cupcake or cake pop? Or do you just skip it all together like my mom and go straight to the frosting?

 
8 Comments

Posted by on April 23, 2013 in Snacks For Munching, Sweets and Treats

 

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Dreams & Protein “Ice Cream”

15 Apr

 I just wanted to mention about what recently happened in Boston today. My heart goes out to you. It’s such a tragedy. People are so horrible. I just can’t understand it and it pains me so.

***

So, yesterday it was my mother’s “birthday.” What I mean by that is, her birthday is tomorrow but she had an early celebration. I made her a delicious brunch including waffles and it was a total blast, but I don’t know why WordPress isn’t allowing me to upload the pictures.

It says they are too big, but it’s random as to which are “too big” since they are all the same size. But if you go to my Facebook page, I will post them there for you too see. I took my mom to see Jekyll & Hyde on Broadway. It was her pre-birthday gift from the children.

Guess who I got to meet?554075_10101545731822900_905675740_nUh yes! Constantine Maroulis, of course. Oh my gosh I was trying so hard not to scream, squel and sound like a complete teeny-bopper! He was my favorite American Idol and I was in love with him from day one. Dreams really do come true :)

We also got to see a bunch of celebrities going to see Motown including Redfoo, Sting and Bono! Again, there are a few pictures in the album and I’ll put the link to it here. Another thing I wanted to share with you was this protein “ice cream” I made. I found this recipe from The Coconut Diaries. I just made a few modifications and added half a scoop of protein powder to the bag and instead of shaking it for 5 minutes, I left it in the freezer for 10 minutes. Then I shook it for 5 minutes. It came out awesome and will definitely make this again.

All that amount of ice cream and less then 100 calories. Oh yes! You know there is a drizzle of maple. That has Sabrina written all over it! But, I do seriously wish I could have uploaded more of the pictures, but for now go click the link! Tomorrow is her real birthday, so WIAW will revolve around that for sure. Til then, enjoy your evening!

Question: Ever been to a Broadway play?

My favorite all time is Phantom of the Opera. It was beautiful!

 
8 Comments

Posted by on April 15, 2013 in All About Sabrina

 

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Chocolate Clusters & Almond Butter Cups (Vegan)

13 Apr

So glad that many of you loved the sugar-free chocolate dip. Boy do I have some fun treats for you to try with it. I hope you like them as much as I do!

I’ve been on a nice clean eating streak and have eliminated a lot of added sugars. I was eating milk chocolate like crazy. Heck I was drinking too much of milk anything.

I’m lactose intolerant plus nothing was organic. Meaning more estrogen in my body, meaning off-balanced Sabrina! And too much dark chocolate messes with my bile reflux. What’s a girl to do? IMG_20130410_222449Take the sugar-free chocolate dip and get creative, but make sure you cool it for at least five (to ten) minutes. Here are two little “recipes” I did with the dip which have no added sugar, unless you use maple syrup. Feel free to try your own variations.

Maybe try making the clusters maybe with blueberries, coconut flakes and almond slices? That is my next attempt! And for the almond butter cups, maybe try a different nut butter? I think some raw cashew butter would be divine. Enjoy!
544823_631443806869183_1694369391_nSabrina’s Fruit & Nut Chocolate Clusters Ingredients (Makes 6 Servings)

  • 1 Serving of Sugar-Free Chocolate Dip (w/ maple added if desired)
  • 1/2 Cup of Frozen Raspberries, Thawed A BIT (or your choice)
  • 2 Tbsps of Pepitas (or your choice nuts)
  • 1 Tbsps of Raisins (or your choice dried fruit)

Put all the ingredients into a bowl and stir gently to mix. 529366_10101544743932640_1092465195_nPlace the clusters into cupcake liners (mines are silicone, for non-stick action) or drop them onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Place in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to an hour.

Remove from freezer and enjoy!

534423_632094143470816_822010841_nChocolate Almond Butter Cups Ingredients (Makes 2-4 Servings)

  • 1 Serving of Sugar-Free Chocolate Dip (w/ maple added if desired)
  • 1 Tbsp of Raw Almond Butter, Divided
  • 1 tsp of your choice vegan protein powder mixed into almond butter (Optional)*

Take two big (pictured above) or four small cupcake liners and spread a little bit of chocolate dip on the bottom. Then divide the almond butter between the liners sections.

Then add the remaining chocolate to cover the almond butter. Freeze for at least 30 minutes (or try in the fridge for an hour?). Remove and eat!

Question: Do you have a recipe that is versatile? My chocolate mousse is definitely good for a brownie filling. Even can be used as frosting. Mmmm, mousse frosting!

 
8 Comments

Posted by on April 13, 2013 in Snacks For Munching, Sweets and Treats

 

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Sugar-Free Chocolate Dip (GF & Vegan)

11 Apr

This morning I was feeling me some oats. I had these oats with some soymilk, pumpkin seeds, almonds and a maple syrup drizzle.531914_631744553505775_463699327_nMr. Hercules was being really lazy. I mean… really?IMG_20130408_072747It’s okay, I was doing the same yesterday. It was a beautiful day, so I decided to take my studying outside. Tell me this isn’t an awesome study view?IMG_20130410_165131All that studying made me crave something sweet. I wanted chocolate, but not in candy form. I read Ashley’s blog yesterday and saw her pudding recipe, which was super simple!

I didn’t exactly want pudding, so I took her awesome recipe and tweaked it to make more of a “dip.” Best of all? It’s sugar-free (w/ sugar added option), gluten-free, and vegan. There are options below to make it with added sugar or non-vegan. Check it out!IMG_20130410_195632Sugar-Free Chocolate Dip Ingredients (Inspired by this recipe)

  • 2 Tbsps of Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
  • 1 Tbsp of Coconut Oil
  • 3 Tbsps of Non-Dairy Milk, Divided
  • 1-2 Packets of Stevia*
  • 1/2 tsp of Vanilla Extract
  • OPTIONALS*
  • 1 tsp of Pure Maple Syrup or Agave* (again if you don’t mind the added sugar)
  • 1-2 Tbsps of Plain or Vanilla Greek Yogurt* (adding this makes it non-vegan)

Place all ingredients (using only 2 Tbsps of non-dairy milk first) into a bowl and stir a bit. Then place in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

Remove from microwave, stir well and add remaining milk (add Greek Yogurt or maple syrup here, if desired). If it get’s a little “clumpy” just add a splash of milk and place back into the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy hot or let it cool for 5 minutes, dipping your favorite fruits.

Or pour onto your pancakes, waffles, french toast… get creative! Serves Two! Recipe makes about 1/4 Cup (with Greek Yogurt; about 1/3 cup); 2 Tbsps is nice a serving size. Enjoy!

Question: What’s your favorite kind of dip?

I’m going to have to go with Auntie Anne’s sweet cream dip thing. Cinnamon sugar pretzels and sweet cream =  heaven! I don’t eat that anymore due to my allergies. Probably a good thing!

*Awesome tip: Turns into a “mousse” if you leave it in the fridge for like 20 minutes  You can eat it all for under 200 calories (depending on the ingredients you use)!*

Just remember… it’s super rich, so a little goes a long way!

 
20 Comments

Posted by on April 11, 2013 in Meal Ideas Made Simple, Sweets and Treats

 

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Vanilla & Almond Protein Squares (or “Truffles”)

05 Apr

I was craving a vanilla almond Luna bar and a Rise almond honey protein bar all in one. Don’t ask me how that craving came about, but I know I wanted them both. I decided to take one of my “truffle” recipes and came up with this yummy thing.IMG_20130403_122135This recipe is gluten-free and can be vegan if you use Earth Balance and a vegan protein powder. It literally took me under 10 minutes to make. It’s even faster if you already have caramel sauce in the fridge. You know I have some ready; you just never know.IMG_20130403_104948Vanilla & Almond Protein Squares/ “Truffles” Ingredients (Inspired by this recipe)’

  • 1 1/2 Tbsps of Almond Butter (I used Justin’s Maple)
  • 1 Tbsp of the Homemade “Caramel” Sauce (makes all the difference! Or try 2 tsps of coconut oil. It may change the taste, so beware! Or do an oz. of melted dark chocolate (pictured first and it’s really good!).
  • 1 Scoop of Vanilla Protein Powder
  • 1 tsp of Pure Maple Syrup (or Agave)
  • 1/4 tsp of Vanilla Extract
  • Filling (optional): sliced almonds, dark chocolate chips, etc.
  • Coating: Roll truffles into vanilla protein powder or your choice*

Prepare the “caramel” sauce before making this recipe. Place nut butter in the microwave for about 20 seconds if you need to softened. Then mix the first five ingredients to form a soft “cookie” dough, that can be made into a square or ball either using your hands or melon scooper.

If too thick, add more “caramel” sauce. If too liquid-y, add more protein powder. Then add your choice of filling, if you want an extra crunch. These pictured don’t have anything inside, I just ate then with almonds on the side.

Then take the mixture and make into two squares or four truffles and roll in your choice coating*. I used vanilla protein powder, but have fun with it. Make it your own. Maybe even try and dip it into dark or white chocolate for a decadent treat!IMG_20130403_104917Question: What’s you favorite Luna, Rise or protein bar?

I’m going to say Luna’s vanilla almond (duh), the Rise almond honey protein bar (duh x’s two) and thinkThin’s dark chocolate. I just can no longer eat that one because of the peanuts. Boo.

 
8 Comments

Posted by on April 5, 2013 in Snacks For Munching, Sweets and Treats, Tidbits On Healthy Living

 

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A Conscious Effort

24 Mar

I am going to be lazy today.

I wanted to recap LiveFit Phase One in detail but, I’ll give you a quickie. It went well and it was hard not being able to do cardio. But, I did 20 minutes on the Arc sometimes, hiked or went to yoga. I noticed that I was getting stronger and a bit more toned as the weeks progressed, which made me happy. (Look at that tan!)
IMG_20130319_160011My weight didn’t go down or up, as expected with the first phase (you gain muscle weight). Now I am on to Phase Two and I am happy that cardio is back. I just love the Arch machine. My diet wasn’t really close to the plan, but I am going to try to make an effort to do so. But I ate spinach, that should count? (Look a heart!)

IMG_20130321_111539I am also making an effort to better watch my cholesterol. I noticed that I was over 400mg a day, when recommended is less than 300mg. I can report that all of my days are now under 200mg! Oats anyone?408969_10101530096780650_831074314_nI’m also trying to watch my fat intake as well. I found Stonyfield’s Honey Greek froyo on sale and bought a couple. Instead of eating a lot of milk chocolate (since darker bugs my tummy a bit), I’ll have a scoop of this and it’s so sweet and delicious, it really satisfies my sweet tooth.IMG_20130320_123122Oh, today my brother goes back to college. He was home for spring break but now it’s back to school. We went to eat at Dallas BBQ yesterday  The food was not bad, but definitely greasy. I guess sometimes you need to over indulge, I know I did! I ate half a chicken w/ fries and a side of spinach. Only me. 562215_10101531354769630_886099555_nThe other day though, I made him a healthy lunch with steak, mashed potatoes and green beans. It was super delicious and I am glad he enjoyed it. He never wants you to do anything for him, but I remembered he was craving steak n’ potatoes.408993_10101530511679190_1360289805_nQuestion: How’s everyone Sunday going? What are you making a conscious effort in doing? Exercising? Eating healthy? Studying? For me, it’s all the above!

 
4 Comments

Posted by on March 24, 2013 in All About Sabrina, Meal Ideas Made Simple, Sweets and Treats

 

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The Day Before…

04 Mar

It’s the day before I head to Puerto Rico…

I have to say, I am a bit nervous because I haven’t been on a plane since my 22nd birthday. Uh I am am turning 25 this year so it’s been a while. I think I’ll be okay? Some snackies will be sure to curb the jitters.IMG_20130303_231506Today is also the day I go to the doctor’s, as usual. They are going to check on something and I will for sure let you know how it goes. I am not suppose to eat for eight hours before. Meaning I won’t eat til like 3:00pm. When I get out, this is going straight in my tummy!IMG_20130303_230906Since I know there probably won’t be a WIAW, this was my favorite breakfast this week. I know what you are thinking… “Sabrina, you OVER roasted the broccoli.” I know guys, but it tastes way better.
IMG_20130303_094845I also made some more truffles but this time I added 1 tsp of freshly grinded coffee and sprinkled some almonds on top. They were so good and I definitely be making that combo again.IMG_20130303_150105Okay, I am off to the doctor’s… Wish me luck!

Question: Sometimes burnt is better right? I like to have burnt pizza, burnt burgers. Or am I the only weirdo?

 
16 Comments

Posted by on March 4, 2013 in All About Sabrina, Snacks For Munching

 

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