Welcome back to the last of my series on coconut oil! :) If you haven’t read the other posts in this series, here’s part 1, part 2, and part 3.

photo credit

So in my last post I said that I would cover some good coconut oil sources. Since (unfortunately) most of us do not have palm trees in our backyards, we must buy coconut oil. We get ours from Nutvia. It has regular sales, so be watching for when the prices go down, as coconut oil is not cheap. You can also buy it from Tropical Traditions. These are only a few of the many sources out there.

There are sooo many ways you can use coconut oil in your baking and cooking. I prefer using it not only because it’s healthy, but also because it gives food such a great flavor and texture.

Here are some foods I like to use coconut oil in:

Granola

Whole wheat chocolate chip cookies

Cinnamon baked oatmeal

Deep frying doughnuts (it’s a safe oil to heat because of its high smoke point)

Frying eggs, pancakes, and french toast

Popping popcorn

Stir-frying vegetables or meat

Blended in coffee. Yes, I thought it was a weird idea too until I tried it. Now it’s one of my favorite ways to drink coffee! For an energy boost that lasts, blend 1 cup coffee with 1-2 Tablespoons coconut oil and a few drops of stevia and vanilla extract (optional) for 20 to 30 seconds. The oil emuslifies, producing a rich, creamy drink. What a treat!

Coconut oil fudge: this is a delicious AND healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth or chocolate craving! Wish I had a picture to show you…that would really tempt you into making it. :p

2 cups softened coconut oil
1 cup chopped nuts (any kind, we like walnuts)
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar
1/2 cup chopped dried fruit (I like rasisins, cherries, and Craisins)
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, optional

Simply stir all ingredients together, mixing well. Spread into an 8×8 or 9×13 inch pan. Refrigerate or freeze until firm. Enjoy!

Alrighty, well that wraps up this series on coconut oil! I hope y’all enjoyed it. I certainly enjoyed writing it, and the lovely comments you left were very encouraging. :)

So tell me, if you buy coconut oil, what are some ways that you use it? I’d love more ideas!