6 Surprisingly Sweet Ways to Cook With Coconut Oil

What exactly is it that makes coconut oil so special?

Is it the medium-chain triglycerides—a super healthy fat? Is it the high smoke point? Is it the velvety, smooth consistency? Is it the slightly sweet, tropical flavor?

If you ask us, it’s all of these reasons that make coconut oil a staple in the Thrive Market HQ pantry. And nothing’s better than a classic dessert recipe made healthier with coconut oil.

Whether in vegan ice cream cake, easy DIY almond butter, or homemade candy, coconut oil transforms sweet treats from just okay to incredible. Try a few of our favorites for yourself—we guarantee you’ll be drooling by the end of this list.

These Almond Butter Cups Put Store-Bought Candy to Shame

You’ll never miss Reese’s  after you try these almond butter cups, which are both vegan and Paleo-friendly!

This Carrot Cake Oatmeal Is What Breakfast Dreams Are Made Of

We’re drooling just thinking about the deep, spicy flavors of this luscious, almost cake-like baked oatmeal. Bonus: Apples, raisins, and carrots all make an appearance.

A Taste of Endless Summer: Vegan Chocolate-Covered Frozen Bananas

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean that you have to give up frozen desserts. These super simple chocolate-covered bananas will make you forget your winter woes.

5 Ingredients: A Supercharged Green Smoothie

Yep, coconut oil belongs in smoothies, too. Healthy fats in this baby will kick-start your metabolism in the morning, putting you on track for a great day.

Game, Set, Matcha—This Frozen Dessert Makes Green Tea a Winner

Rich matcha green tea lends a full-bodied flavor to our raw take on ice cream cake. This surprisingly easy dish is a real showstopper.

Upgrade Your Breakfast With Omega-3 Maple Almond Butter

This DIY almond butter comes together in no time, and harnesses the nutritional power of flax seeds, chia seeds, and hemp seeds for a major dose of healthy fats.

Photo credit: Paul Delmont