Some thoughts and discussions from me.
Chocolate Macaroons {Grain-free, Sugar-Free, High-Protein option}
Hello, from sunny California!
I’m in Santa Monica this week having a little fun 
Shane’s on a business trip here (he works from home, but his office is actually in Santa Monica) and for the first time ever, I decided I’d tag along on one of his business trips! Any suggestions on things to do? I’ve already mapped out directions to Palisades Park, Whole Foods, and a couple of yoga studios, but I’m always open to trying something new and fun!
I’d actually love to find a good hiking trail. Hiking is one of my favorite ways to explore new places! Though eating my way through new places is a close second 
Although I enjoy dining at new restaurants, and experiencing the local cuisine, one thing I always do before traveling is pack some snacks and treats to enjoy in case I’m in a pinch.
This trip’s snack bag includes:
- beef jerky
- coconut flakes
- KIND bars
- Quest bars
- homemade coconut macaroons
*screeech* say what?! Yep, homemade (chocolate) coconut macaroons, that are gluten-free, don’t contain any added sugar, and have a high-protein option. I did some testing in the kitchen Monday afternoon in between clients. Sure, I should have been packing during this open window, instead of rushing to do that last minute, but believe me, it’s in your favor that I didn’t
Chocolate Macaroons (Grain-free, Sugar-free, High-protein option)
1 c. coconut flakes (unsweetened)
1/4 c. shredded coconut (unsweetened)
1/4 c. cocoa powder OR chocolate protein powder
1/2 tsp. sea salt
1/4 c. coconut oil
1/4 c. coconut butter
Mix together the dry ingredients, until incorporated. In a microwave-safe jar, heat up the coconut oil and coconut butter until melted. Stir together to combine, and then add the liquids to the dry ingredients, and stir, stir, stir! If it’s still too dry, you may need to add a few capfuls of coconut (or almond) milk to get things going. Roll into 1-inch balls, and place in the refrigerator to harden (heh.) Eat and enjoy!
Store in refrigerator. Or you can do like I did and store them in a cooler and eat them all on your plane ride. ha!
What are your go-to travel snacks?
Yum! Macaroons are one of my favorite, healthy cookie! Plus, anything with chocolate is always a win. 🙂 I’ll have to try these!
Deb @ Dietitian Debbie Dishes recently posted…What Does it Mean to “Eat Clean”?
These look great but I cannot get on the macaroon bandwagon because I despise coconut. I always see great things made with it and I wish I loved it but it is one of my most hated foods! Boo!!
Kelly @ Laughter, Strength, and Food recently posted…Oatmeal and Peanut Butter Date Balls
Yeah, seeing as there’s four types of coconut in these, you probably wouldn’t like ’em 😉 hehe
Those sound totally amazing! Chocolate and coconut…YUM! Enjoy the trip
Oh I would totally make these. I can’t get enough of coconut lately.
christinaorso recently posted…This or That Blogger Survey
Delicious!! I am loving all things coconut right now! Enjoy your trip girl!!!
Brittany @ Delights and Delectables recently posted…WIAW: New Mom Eats
Mmmm I need to make these!
How long are you in Santa Monica? Do you have access to a car?
Look in to hiking up to the Hollywood sign outside of Griffith Park.
Rent a bike and ride from Santa Monica Pier down to Venice.
Have a great time!
Thanks for the suggestions, Chatelaine! 🙂
Yum! Those sound awesome. We’ll typically pack bars if it’s just a quick hike, or maybe sandwiches if we plan to stop and eat and enjoy the scenery.
Courtney @ Don’t Blink. Just Run. recently posted…Diet S.O.S.
Yum. Could I do peanut or almond butter instead of coconut butter? I’ve never had coconut butter before, but I assume it’s a similar consistency to almond or pb.
Lee recently posted…Alexander: 2 Weeks
I would think so! If you do, let me know how it turns out 🙂
i wanna be in california!!!!! have fun!
Lindsay @ Lindsay’s List recently posted…wordless wednesday
Questbars are always a must! 😉
I’m jealous you’re in Santa Monica! I miss Cali.
I think these wouldn’t make it past a third day if I were around. 😉
They sound delicious!
Natalie Staeckeler recently posted…WIAW – Intuitive Eating
jealous you are in sunny CA!! 🙂 have fun
OH HEY! You’re in my neck of the woods 🙂 It’s been a little CHILL here – but uhhhhh no complaining considering the rest of the country is getting BEATEN by the nasty CHILL!
These looks so flipping easy to make! YUM -I would totally make them protein style 🙂
GiGi Eats Celebrities recently posted…The Results of a Single-Blind Experiment
I like coconut a lot. So this macaroons will go into my recipe book for sure.
blackhuff recently posted…I need to disclose information to my trainer on Monday evening
Just wow! YUM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jody – Fit at 56 recently posted…Fit Gifts & Healthy Gifts for Valentine’s Day or ANY DAY!
Mmm.I think i would prefer to use protein powder instead of cocoa to make them as mild in taste as possible.Very healthy oils!
Sarah recently posted…Top Ten Advantages To Using HCG Drops
Chocolate is my guilty pleasure. So glad these macaroons contain chocolate and coconut (my favorite combo) in addition to being a healthy snack! I have been trying to solve the between-meals snacking conundrum and this recipe may just be the perfect solution.
Wow! The macaroons look so good! Makes me want one right now! I’ve been stuck on drinking shakes and, frankly, its getting a bit boring. I do love the taste of my organic protein powder (which I found with the help of http://bestproteinpowderforwomen.us/best-organic-protein-powder/ if anyone is interested) so I will use that to make these yummy macaroons!
Chocolate macaroons are made from protein powder? taste can change us.
example: Yogurt, Milkshake, Cakes,…
Clara recently posted…Top 10 Discounts Protein Powder Under $100
I love chocolate macaroons so much. Really it’s good as it is grain-free, sugar-free and high protein supported. Thanks for the great recipe. Will try it out later.
Great idea – – enjoy! 🙂