All it took was one glowing recommendation from America’s favorite talk show host, and the market was suddenly flooded with new products utilizing acai berry, the supposed super-food that claims to do everything from preventing wrinkles to aiding in weight loss. Costing a small fortune, lacking scientific evidence to support such fantastical allegations, and never once mentioning anything about being delicious, I didn’t exactly race out to see what the hype was about myself. Rather, despite giving these exotic fruits the cold shoulder, the hype came to me, in the form of some trial acai berry juice acquired during my visit to the Fancy Foods Show. Tentatively taking a small first sip, my fears were instantly realized- Bitter, medicinal, and chalky at best, this was no beverage I wished to even store in my fridge. Perhaps it was just the brand, or the individual batch, but this strange witch’s brew did not agree with my palate.

Unfortunately, my generous sample of two full cartons sat dejectedly in the chill chest, untouched and unloved. Trying to think of the health benefits while pinching my nose and chugging the juice, I was able to polish off the first, but I couldn’t help but think that there must be a better way to finish the second. Far too valuable to simply dump, I set about searching for a tastier solution.

This was definitely a job for dark chocolate, an anti-oxidant powerhouse itself and the ultimate flavor enhancer, guaranteed to cover up the nastier aspects of that uber-healthy berry. Taking it easy on such a hot summer day, basic fudgesicles with some hidden nutritional benefits were just what the doctor ordered.

Superfood Fudgsicles

1/2 Cup Coconut Milk
3.5 Ounces Dark Chocolate, Finely Chopped
11 Ounces Acai Juice
1/3 Cup Agave Nectar
Pinch Salt

Heat the coconut milk for 60 – 90 seconds, until just on the brink of boiling, and pour it over the chocolate. Let sit for a few minutes to allow the chocolate to melt, and then stir well, until completely smooth. Pour in the acai juice, agave, and salt, and mix thoroughly to combine. Let cool to room temperature, and pour into popsicle molds. Place in the freezer and allow at least 4 hours before serving, or until the popsicles are completely solid.

Makes 6 – 8 popsicles

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