No-bake & secretly healthy avocado fudge bites!
I have puppy fever.
Every time I leave the apartment, I am bombarded with puppies!
Big puppies, little puppies, young puppies, old puppies. (All dogs are puppies to me, no matter their age.)
And it makes me wonder if I should get a puppy…
(Above, Henry in his thundershirt and Batman in his winter coat Batsuit.)
So today I am crowdsourcing. What do you think? Should I adopt a puppy? I realize they are a big responsibility, but who better to care for a dog than someone who lives in a walking-friendly city and works from home? Ideally, I’d adopt a lab.
A chocolate lab!! It could be my website mascot! Chocolate-Covered Puppy!!
However, a small dog would probably be happier in a small apartment.
Maybe a dachshund?
Anyways…
A lot of you have requested I post more avocado-based recipes.
Today’s superfood avocado fudge bites call for just a few ingredients you might already have on hand, and they are great for humans! Notsomuch for puppies, who should never be fed avocados nor chocolate.
But seeing as I am currently puppy-less, at least this means I need not worry about an evil puppy stealing my food.
5 Ingredient Avocado Fudge Bites
- 1/4 cup mashed ripe avocado
- 6 tbsp coconut butter, melted
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup or raw agave
- 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
- tiny pinch salt
- stevia to taste, OR 1 additional tbsp both pure maple syrup and coconut butter
If you have a Magic Bullet, blend all ingredients together until smooth. If you only have a bigger blender, you might wish to double the recipe for smoother blending. You can blend by hand if you absolutely must, but be sure to get the mixture completely smooth. Spread into a small plastic container and freeze until set (at least 3 hours). At this time, you can either scoop into balls with a mini cookie scoop or you can simply cut into fudge. If you want to coat them in chocolate (and why wouldn’t you?!), mix together equal parts cocoa powder, virgin coconut oil, and pure maple syrup until a thin sauce forms. Dip in the fudge balls, then immediately set back in the freezer to harden. Leftovers should be stored in the fridge or freezer for up to three days.
Other Healthy Avocado Recipes:
Creamy Avocado Alfredo Pasta (reader favorite)
I’m also working on an avocado brownie recipe. The first three four five six brownie trials still needed work, but I’m happily eating all of the less-than-perfect results. (Perhaps I keep messing up the recipe on purpose? Hmmm…)
And here are 9 Healthy Avocado Recipes!
Audrey says
11th June 2014 at 1:10 pmYes! I totally think you should adopt a puppy. 🙂 Obviously, the final choice will be yours, but I don’t see how you can go wrong with getting a pet. Plus, a chocolate-covered puppy would be the cutest blog mascot 😉
Kim @ Hungry Healthy Girl says
11th June 2014 at 1:14 pmThese are such a great idea and I LOVE the color! Oh and you should totally get a puppy. Watch out with those dachshunds, though, they like to pee everywhere. I have a Coton de Tulear… best dog ever. Look it up.
EVA says
11th June 2014 at 1:19 pmGetting a puppy….is that even a question?! DUH you should get a pup! Too bad that you live in a small apartment, because labs are so amazing. You seem like one to own a pug. They’re small, little balls of energy and I think one would go perfect with your seemingly busy lifestyle!
Aster says
11th June 2014 at 1:22 pmYes you should get a puppy! Especially because you thought about it very hard and your situation sounds ideal for tiny dogs. I also work from home most of the time, and I have to admit that a big part of that is spent writing emails while lounging with cats. It’s the best part of my day, and I’m sure a dog will work out for you the same way! Also, they are so cute. I know that’s not a sensible argument, but come on, they look so cute how can you say no. I can’t. They have taken over the balcony garden like they own the place! And even that is very cute…
Aster says
11th June 2014 at 1:32 pmPs. Not only is it ethical and good to rescue/adopt, you also get the best pets! Friends got snooty fluffy inbred kittens from a breeder (booooo), and then one of them got sick and died. Our ex-street somewhat shorthair cats (we got them age 3 and 4) we’re not only perfectly house trained, they have much more personality. Sure, on of them’s a little jumpy and the other one awkwardly shaped, but what they lack in finesse, they make up for in kindness and hilarity. Seriously, they are funny. So not only should you get a dog, I think you get the best animals when you adopt. These two sort of chose us when we went to the shelter, and they’ve been family ever since. Take that, poor inbred fluffy snooty cats! It’s one of the best things we ever did, to get these guys and let them stay with us.
Red Deception says
11th June 2014 at 1:40 pmThis recipe – yes x one million!
As for puppies, I have constant puppy lust and volunteer to walk dogs at the local SPCA. I swear, if I could take them all home, I would. Sadly, I live in a small apartment (not dog friendly) and tend to travel often – so it wouldn’t be fair to get a pooch just yet. But someday!
Have you checked out the SPCA in your area? There are often sweet, lovable little fur animals that need a good home. It’s also generally more ethical than getting a dog from a puppy mill or breeder. We found all our fur babies through the SPCA – Mocha (our chocolate lab) was being given away by a family that was moving. We love her!!
Ryan says
11th June 2014 at 1:42 pmYes yes, definitely get a puppy!!:)
I know that this is a very busy time of year for animal shelters, you could visit them and see if you connect with any of them:) and I agree with a previous commenter, we have a dashund and she’s been the only dog that is almost impossible to potty train (we’ve had 6 dogs over the years). She is a great dog though, I’d just be aware that they can be harder to potty train. Good luck!!:)
Sarah says
11th June 2014 at 1:57 pmHow do you think these would be with some mint extract added, and/or some dark chocolate chunks?
Isabelle says
2nd September 2014 at 2:35 amThat sounds amazing! I’m making these tonight and I might try that.
Leah @ goodnight cheese says
11th June 2014 at 2:27 pmI’m always “for” when a good owner wants to take another dog into their home, but ultimately it has to be your decision. He or she won’t be a puppy for long, so probably have two dogs vs. three dogs, especially small ones, doesn’t seem like a huge transition in terms of work, walking, getting care when you’re away, etc.
Leah @ goodnight cheese says
11th June 2014 at 2:40 pmWow, just reread that and it barely makes sense. I meant that since you already have two dogs, adding a third won’t be that much extra work proportionally in terms of walks and feeding.
Pamela Parrott says
11th June 2014 at 2:34 pmYES to the puppy! There”s probably a sweet-faced lonely puppy out there right now waiting for you. A big puppy (like a lab) is fine in an apartment as long as you take it out regularly. Great protection, great companionship, great dogs. GO FORTH AND PUPPY!
Debbie says
11th June 2014 at 2:34 pmYES YES and YES, you should adopt a pup!! I have 3! You may be surprised at which dogs can be content in small apartments:
http://realestate.msn.com/10-best-pets-for-tiny-apartments#1
http://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/10-best-apartment-dogs
Good luck! Please post pics if you decide to adopt!
Karen says
11th June 2014 at 2:35 pmFirstly, these look yummy! Secondly, YES TO THE DOG! I think you should adopt one. They are a responsibility but they are so, so worth it. Dachies are super cute and aren’t very demanding. They have a few breed related issues like spinal problems but in exchange you get adorable cuteness 🙂 dogs101 on youtube is a great source. Type in the breed you’re looking for like “dachshund, dogs 101” and you get a 5 minute run down on the breed!
Riana says
11th June 2014 at 2:38 pmIf you do decide to adopt a puppy, please rescue one from your local shelter. There are so many dogs that need homes, please don’t support people who breed dogs. Also consider how long dogs live, and make sure you don’t mind having your furry companion along for the next 8+ years, in addition to the cost of food, toys, and health care. 😉
lgmcat says
12th June 2014 at 10:43 pmRight on Riana! Don’t support breeders or puppy mills. All of my pets are rescues. There are so many that need good homes.
Mary Ann says
11th June 2014 at 2:39 pmAlways, always say yes when it comes to giving a puppy/dog a loving home!
Dachshunds can have serious back issues, a mix like Henry or Batman will be really intelligent and happy. Short haired dogs shed more than long haired dogs, poodles don’t shed are very intelligent and can be small, med. or large. You have lots of choices….head for your nearest animal shelter today!
Bethany Cooper says
11th June 2014 at 2:41 pmYou should absolutely get a puppy! We have girl Schnauzers. Best dogs ever! Plus they don’t shed 😉
Rachel D. says
11th June 2014 at 2:43 pmHoly wow! These look AMAZING!!! I’m pretty sure I will be making these today. Right after I finish cleaning up the drool on my face.
And you should def. get a puppy. And, I read in this article recently that there are some big dog breeds that do very well in small places (as long as they get to walk daily). One of their recommendations was even a great dane!
Here’s the article: http://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/10-best-apartment-dogs.
Pets are def. worth the effort. People say that about kids, too, but I only have experience with pets. lol Cheers!
Jules @ WolfItDown says
11th June 2014 at 2:44 pmAww dogs!
I must admit, I have been craving a four legged companion as well, they make more sense than people most time… Dachshounds are one of the few smaller dogs I actually like, because they have faces like big dogs, yet…are small!
These avocado bites looks deeeelicious! Could just pop it in the freezer and you have icecream! Mmmm ^ ^ Thanks for more inspiration Miss! x
Nina says
11th June 2014 at 2:46 pmYes, you should get a puppy! You have the time to take care of one and they’re wonderful company. Please opt to adopt! (rather than shop).
Shaina says
11th June 2014 at 2:47 pmI made avocado cupcakes once and I am absolutely amazed at how silky smooth the batter was. And with no raw eggs, there was nothing stopping me from licking the bowl, the spoon, and the mixer attachment…. Avocados are such a great ingredient for baking, please keep the recipes coming!
Beka says
11th June 2014 at 2:51 pmKatie, these sound yummy. And I vote for a rescue beagle! 🙂
Mar says
11th June 2014 at 2:55 pmHi! Cant wait to try these and tweak something else with them! Quick ques: how many servings does that recipe make? How many bites etc? Thnks!
Karolina says
11th June 2014 at 3:10 pmYes to adopting a puppy! Your dog pictures would be great to see 🙂 I wish I could adopt one but my job is the opposite of yours – I am out of town during the week and rarely home.
Also, can’t wait to try out this recipe!
Ali says
11th June 2014 at 3:16 pmBoston Terrier or a pug are great, small dogs that have big personalities and are a lot of fun.
whitney says
31st August 2014 at 3:38 amI second this…I have a 10 year old black “bug” – half pug half Boston Terrier, and she is the BEST dog I’ve ever had – funny, sweet, adorable, and the smartest dog I’ve ever met. Seriously. My family likes me to bring her over and show their friends all the things she can do, from doing cool tricks to obeying commands, etc. She’s my best pal. She’s going through chemo right now, but staying pretty healthy and I’m just praying that we have her in our lives for many years to come!
Mia (Mia in Germany) says
11th June 2014 at 3:24 pmYes, adopt a puppy! 🙂
Those avocado fudge bites look amazing. I’ve just tried avocado key lime mousse, so I can go on to avocado fudge…
Angie says
11th June 2014 at 3:36 pmHaving a dog is the best thing in the world! They add so much to your life and when trained properly can go anywhere with you!!! Just remember to take the dogs breed into consideration. A Jack Russell is going to need a lot of something to do and so will a lab these dogs were designed to do a job and not just hang out. Bigger dogs like Great Danes, Retired Greyhounds and Newfies are happy for short walks and a little more lounging, they also don’t eat as much as one might think because they don’t expend as much energy as smaller dogs do. Whatever the choice look for a dog breed that will mesh good with what you like to do! A high energy dog for a low key person can be a nightmare, just like a couch potato for someone that looks to run would be!
Anastasia @ eco-babyz says
11th June 2014 at 3:49 pmOh my, this recipe is awesome! Hm, maybe I should make them, take cute photos of my kids devouring them, and send all my readers your way for the recipe? I think so! 🙂
Anna M says
11th June 2014 at 3:53 pmI think you should adopt a puppy. I’m a mutt kind of person, so I’ve never looked for a certain breed, just size and temperament (though I did choose my pyr/lab specifically for bred in demeanor). Big dogs can do fine in apartments if you make sure they get adequate exercise. Of course, I’m also a big dog kind of person. So I vote big mutt on principle. 🙂
Terri Cole says
11th June 2014 at 4:11 pmYes! Adopt yourself a puppers!
Does the avocado fudge turn brown if not eaten right away? It looks delicious!
Marguerite says
11th June 2014 at 4:13 pmDoxies, they are the single most stubborn breed out there. I had a trainer tell me they are the most difficult dogs to train. They have a mind of their own and if they don’t want to do something they just won’t hear you. That being said, I just had to say good bye to my little doxie after many many years. My life is a lot quieter and emptier. I miss my little shadow so much. He was funny, fiercely loyal and I so wish I could hug him again. Definitely get a puppy.
Jessica says
11th June 2014 at 5:30 pmI would disagree. My doxie never was fully housebroken but learned obedience behaviors much quicker than any other dog I’ve ever worked with. She was even an AKC Canine Good Citizen. Best dog ever…but any dog is good with me!
Kathleen says
11th June 2014 at 4:21 pmYes! Adopt a puppy! owner of two lovely puppies!
Shelley says
11th June 2014 at 4:41 pmPuppies ARE a lot of work. But they are so cute!! And fun!! And don’t let your apartment dissuade you from getting the dog you want. Well, as long as you have time to exercise a big dog. Def easier training a puppy if you don’t have to deal with stairs, but I don’t think it’d be a deal breaker.
Andie says
11th June 2014 at 4:53 pmIf you have the time for a puppy, you should totally go for it 🙂 having a dog is one of the best experiences 🙂 you can have a chocolate lab as long as you exercise them a lot 🙂 If you don’t care for exercise then get a small one 🙂 also, never give them any of your chocolate treats either 😛 chocolate is very bad as well as avocados 🙂
Cathy Taylor says
11th June 2014 at 4:57 pmLabrador/Cocker Spaniel cross, in black/chocolate. Best dog there is; fur is softer and easier to groom than pure spaniel, disposition is sweet sweet sweet!!!!!
judith westerfield says
11th June 2014 at 5:02 pmA puppy always turns into a dog. Why not try fostering a dog that will be adopted to see if you want that kind of responsibility. Almost all the rescue organizations need doggie foster parents.
P.S. I LOVE YOU KATIE! Been following you a long time.
Emily says
11th June 2014 at 5:14 pmPuppies are awesome!
And weird as it sounds, little dogs are very often far higher maintenance than bigger dogs- my best friend when I was little had a chocolate lab called Moss, and he was the sweetest dog ever- he died when he was almost 100 in dog years and I sobbed- just so calm and friendly. Labs are meant to be very good to train, as they’re clever doggies 🙂
Handmade by Lorna says
11th June 2014 at 5:35 pmIf you are going to get a puppy you can’t go far wrong with a Chocolate Labrador. I had mine (Tiger) from a six week old puppy until she was almost 16yrs. A better companion I couldn’t have wished for. Back to the Fudge, you had me until I saw it was Avacado Fudge, now I love almost all veggies but Avacado I just can’t stand, please tell me that they are so yummy that you don’t taste the offending veggie!! lol!
Taylor Bishop of Knife + Lens says
11th June 2014 at 2:13 pmThese sound amazing! Labs can be great apartment dogs as long as you walk them enough. I had a black lab in an apartment, he was so smart and calm. I took him to the dog park and walked with him a few times a day and he was always healthy and happy. Actually once we got a yard he’d never want to be out alone in it. I think most dogs want the company and fun time with their owner more then actually being outside so I wouldn’t feel guilty getting a larger dog without a yard.
Anna says
11th June 2014 at 5:50 pmAgreed! I have a golden retriever mix and she hates being alone outside. Loves long walks and the dog park thou 🙂
Oh, and I live in an apartment with a dog and two cats! There is plenty of room! Except that I’m always on the brink of accidentally kicking one since they follow me around 🙂
Jess @ Keeping It Real Food says
11th June 2014 at 2:55 pmLove these! And I totally hear you about dog fever. I woke up the other day and after having thought about it for a few years, realized it’s finally a good time. I just submitted a request for approval to my building yesterday. Fingers crossed they say ok : )
Charlotte Zweigoron says
11th June 2014 at 6:55 pmOver the years, I tried many times to adopt a doggie… sometimes they tried to adopt me. There are a couple of real horror stories (3 x 5 section of brand new carpeting chewed and scratched down to the backing by Black Lab; almost new tangerine sofa eaten by Great Dane… both of these feats accomplished within about 4 – 5 hours) but, all in all, I failed miserably as a dog owner. Now that I am retired and my hubby is not, I wanted more of a companion and am now allergic to the more fastidious kitties that used to call me “mom”. I got a small, mixed-breed female pup who looks most like her Chihuahua half and tried again armed with some great puppy/dog training web sites. I have succeeded beyond my wildest dreams! She is a treasure and I am so happy I had some experts to help me raise her to be a really good dog. She is now 2 1/2 and people are always surprised because she looks like a Chihuahua but, because of persistent and loving training, she has overcome many of the issues that people associate with her breed. (Some of that may be attributed to the natural disposition of the daddy but we don’t know what breed he was.) I would urge you to look at rescuing a dog from a shelter. Even if you have a particular breed in mind, you can go to that breed’s rescue sites to look for your pet. I have several friends who have found wonderful, pure-bred doggies in the shelter, too. So many pets have been abandoned because of the cost of feeding and caring for them. You’ll be glad you helped out.
Melissa says
11th June 2014 at 7:02 pmA puppy would be a great friend, if you’re willing to commit to the care. Since you’re in the DC area (I’m in Silver Spring, MD), why not visit the Washington Animal Rescue League (http://www.warl.org/) and adopt the puppy that steals your heart? I’m not in any way affiliated with them. I have, however, adopted three wonderful kittens (well, they were kittens 7 years ago) from rescue organizations. You’ll get a good friend and give a needy animal a good home.
Kate says
11th June 2014 at 7:49 pmKatie, these are absolutely amazing! I tried them just now, and they were absolutely incredible, and tasted like real fudge! You cannot taste the avocado at all! Everyone needs to try this! I halved the recipe just in case I did not like them (which was a mistake, because I know I will be wishing I had made the whole recipe once they are gone!), and they still worked out great with a half a recipe! xoxox
Shelby says
11th June 2014 at 8:58 pmYes on a puppy but please adopt from a rescue! I have 3 dachshunds and have fostered 28 and counting… If you are interested in one I would be happy to help you find a rescue in your area!
Emily says
11th June 2014 at 9:00 pmKatie, you should get a rescue puppy! Mixed-breed dogs will have fewer health problems because they are less inbred than purebreds. Dachshunds can be pretty high energy, and they get really bad back problems when they’re older. I would suggest asking the people at the rescue if they can recommend one of their dogs for apartment living. They know the dogs’ personalities, so rather than taking a gamble based on breed, you will know for sure that your dog will be happy in a small space!
J.P. says
11th June 2014 at 9:05 pmIf you are willing to make a lifelong commitment to it,if you are I hope you will adopt a homeless pup.There are so many who are literally dying to be loved!
ldw81 says
11th June 2014 at 9:06 pmDo it!!
I adopted my big fierce Scottish fighting hamster aka Yorkshire Terrier 7 years ago. At the time I was going through a rough time, she helped motivate me to carry on.. Even though I had serious puppy-blues after 3 weeks! The sleep deprivation, toilet training and general shift in life wasn’t something I had fully reckoned with! Much like a baby (except a lot easier I’d imagine!).
Either way, the joy and love these furry friends give is like no-other. And it does sound like you’ve thought about the lifestyle needs..
Brittany says
11th June 2014 at 9:10 pmGET A DACHSHUND- it will be the best decision of your life! I have one (Henry) and he has the BIGGEST personality- more than most people. They are the best at modeling for photos and also the best taste testers (sometimes I think he would choose food over me. He definitely would)! They are also little cuddle buddies and love lounging as well as a good walk everyday. They’re the best!!!
Kathryn says
11th June 2014 at 9:23 pmGo for the puppy! Lab puppies can be a lot of work, but they’re wonderful dogs! I can’t say enough good things about labs. My first dog was a lab, and he was so loyal and sensitive to my moods–once, he jumped on me and made me cry (I was seven), and he was so upset about hurting me that he never jumped on anyone again.
Caitlin says
11th June 2014 at 9:43 pmYes, an active person who works from home like you could absolutely get a puppy! Labs don’t do well in apartments, but there are some larger breeds who do (example: Great Danes, oddly enough). Poke around, check out petfinder.com!
And…thank you for these! I can eat them as-is, but I might just get some erythritol and melt it for the liquid sweetener (it has a caramel-like flavor when melted) so that I can eat ALL of them! lol
Katie @ Produce on Parade says
11th June 2014 at 10:21 pmAnimal companions can bring so much joy! If you’re nervous about the responsibilities involved with a puppy…older dogs need love and homes too 🙂 They will already be potty trained, are usually mellower, and eager for love, among other wonderful things. Please, please, please rescue though! 🙂
The Vegan Cookie Fairy says
11th June 2014 at 10:24 pmYUM! Looks delicious! I am dying to get a dog – three, actually (one husky, one malamute and one samoyed. What a happy bunch we would be.) But I need to wait to have a big house and a garden for that, and that will be some years 🙁
Rachel says
11th June 2014 at 10:25 pmI think you live in DC? If that’s true you should adopt from AWLA in Arlington! They are amazing.
Shonalika says
11th June 2014 at 10:37 pmAwh, I love how you say “all dogs are puppies to you,” it’s such a caring notion. The opposite of people who only seem to like baby animals and get put off by the idea of them getting older.
I don’t really understand dogs and cats as pets for vegans though. I mean I know it’s *possible* to feed a dog a vegan diet, it just doesn’t seem right to me, I’d be constantly worrying about its health and feeling selfish for doing it. At the same time, I couldn’t feed it meat… I know some vegans sort of get around this by saying they adopt animals who’ve been abandoned or whatever and therefore need looking after. I don’t know what your take on it is – for me I find its easier just not to keep a naturally carnivorous animal (not that I could afford to right now anyway XD)
As for those truffles, they look absolutely beautiful and are getting made the second I have some more avocado. I’ve just run out. Love the stuff:D
Dipitie says
11th June 2014 at 10:59 pmOh I hope you adopt! Saving a dog from the shelter is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. I encourage you to just start looking when you’re ready – usually the right dog will come along, and it may end up being a pup you never expected. Mutts are also great, great dogs so don’t feel the need to go with a purebred. Good luck, can’t wait to hear all about it!
Nae says
11th June 2014 at 11:07 pmYou should totally get a puppy! We’re planning on getting two, from the same litter, as soon as we move into the new place. 🙂
Cee says
11th June 2014 at 11:22 pmwe’ve got 3 rescues, and i always advocate for saving a dog (nice to see so many others here do too). dogs are very enriching for most people’s lives, i say go for it!
Janel M. says
11th June 2014 at 11:24 pmYes! Adopt! Now!
I you like Labs, you may want to look into French Bulldogs, Border Terriers, and the like. They’re smart and easier to train than some breeds. Or certainly a smallish mutt (mutts are THE BEST). Pugs are okay, but they have breathing issues with the over-bred smooshy face.
Annette says
12th June 2014 at 12:16 amI think you should adopt a small puppy. I have 2 rescues, both adopted as puppies and both were thrown away by the humans who didn’t spay their moms. My girls are wonderful and I would do it again. You can find puppies, young adults and older dogs. There are rescues devoted to specific breeds. My girls are always so happy and joyful to see me and the kids. Please spay or neuter your pup as it is the responsible thing to do.
Susan says
12th June 2014 at 1:39 amIf you like to go out to walk or would enjoy going to a dog park, a chocolate lab would be a nice choice. The only thing is, they remain puppies for a long, long time – at least 3 years. They are a lot of work, but they are nice dogs (my sister currently has a chocolate lab who is a rescue dog, and therefore even more work). Adopting any dog would be significant work, and obedience training is a must. If you travel at all, it’s difficult to have to leave a dog behind. A dog can also be very good company. I’d think it through very carefully before adopting any pet.
Andie says
12th June 2014 at 1:39 amI vote get a dog!! If you are a good owner, willing to devote time and lots of love and are (and you obviously are, you love animals and have taken such good care of Batman and Mollie), then pets will give so much love in return. There really aren’t any words to describe the incredible bond that can develop between humans and dogs…ever since I got my dog, I ask myself all the time “what would I have done without Alfie?” That scruffy little guy lets so much joy into my life 🙂
Dawn @ Reveal Natural Health says
12th June 2014 at 1:58 amI am new to using avocado in desserts. I have pinned this recipe to try this sometime.