This slice gives after dinner mints a whole new meaning.
I love the different textures going on here - chewy base (thanks to the dates and rice malt syrup), smooth creamy filling and crunchy on top. This dessert needs overnight soaking so best to plan ahead. I was strapped for time when I made this so I used store-bought chocolate for the topping. If you are hardcore feel free to make your own dark chocolate mixture.
PEPPERMINT SLICE
VEGAN | DAIRY FREE | GLUTEN FREE
MAKES 7 LONG SLICES
BASE
1 1/2 cups raw almonds
1/2 cup Loving Earth buckinis
1/4 cup cacao powder
8 medjool dates
1/4 cup rice malt syrup
1 teaspoon pink salt
FILLING
1 1/2 cups raw cashews, soaked overnight
1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 cup coconut cream
1/4 cup rice malt syrup
100 ml of freshly juiced spinach & green apple
1 teaspoon vanilla paste
Pinch of pink salt
2-4 drops of pure peppermint oil (add more depending on how strong you like your peppermint flavour)
TOPPING
100 g good quality vegan chocolate block - try Loving Earth, Sweet William or The Chocolate Counter.
2 x Well Naturally Mint Crisp Bars, roughly chopped
METHOD
1. Blitz the almonds and buckinis in a food processor until crumbly. Add the cacao powder, salt, rice malt syrup and pulse. Gradually add the dates until the mixture is doughy and sticks together.
2. Line a baking tray with baking paper and press the mixture into the tin. Freeze to set.
3. Drain cashews and add to a blender, along with the rest of the filling ingredients. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste test the mixture - if you want the peppermint flavour stronger add another drop of essence. Be careful though - that stuff is potent and it's hard to save if you go overboard!
4. Pour mixture over base and freeze to set (at least 4 hours).
5. Melt the chocolate over a double boiler and spread evenly over the prepared slice. Add chopped mint pieces and freeze to set.
6. To serve, slice the peppermint slice using a knife dipped in boiling water. Store in an airtight container in the freezer. Best to take a piece out at least 15 minutes before eating.
