Tis the season for chocolate, and some studies show a benefit for skin in improved UV protection when consumed. Dark chocolate has a higher percentage of cocoa, and more flavonoids, which are naturally occurring plant compounds (“phytonutrients”). It doesn’t seem like there’s much research supporting a benefit for topical application, but I’m willing to be a guinea pig….I mean it’s chocolate, aren’t you? DO IT FOR SANTA.
For your skin:
Purpose: Hydration and rejuvenation
Ingredients:
- 1 egg
- 1/2 c cocoa powder
- 1/2 and avocado
- 1/2 c ricotta cheese
- 1/4 c honey
Directions:
Blend all ingredients (1) in a mixer or with a hand mixer until smooth (2). Separate out 2 Tbsp of the mixture and massage onto clean skin (3). Allow to sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
For you to eat:
Ingredients:
- The rest of the mixture from above
- 2 additional eggs
- 8oz of semi sweet chocolate
- 3/4 c sugar
- 2/3 stick of butter
Directions: Blend the eggs into the rest of the masque mixture. Using a double boiler, melt the chocolate with the butter until smooth (4). Fold in the sugar. Then blend that into the rest of the masque batter with the mixer on a low speed (5). Pour into an 8 in round pan, place the pan into a larger pan containing water, and bake at 300 for 45 minutes, or until it doesn’t jiggle in the middle when you shake it. Allow to cool completely, then serve (6) with a dollop of ricotta (high in protein and no sugar, great alternative to whipped cream!). This is RICH – a little piece is very satisfying 🙂 Bring it to a special party to share – serves 16.
Sometimes people think that dietitians don’t eat sweets – sorry to burst your bubble, we do. But when I indulge, I want it to be really, really good, so I can savor every bite. Delicious food is one of the purest pleasures of life – it shouldn’t be abused by going overboard, wasting excess, or eating imitation products that only leave you wanting more!
