PLANTSTRONG Podcast

Ep. 263: Chef AJ Wants You to Have Your Cake and Eat it Too!

Aug 22, 2024

Chef AJ, a cherished figure in the plant-based community, shares her love for healthy desserts and her upcoming cookbook, "Sweet Indulgence," featuring over 150 guilt-free recipes. She discusses the magic of using whole foods and natural sweeteners, making indulgence accessible to everyone. A live demonstration of her Frozen Peanut Butter Chocolate Cheesecake leaves listeners craving more. Chef AJ's anecdotes about her culinary journey and the joy of creating desserts reveal her passion for healthy cooking, inspiring both novice and experienced chefs alike.

01:16:27

Creator website

Episode guests

Chef AJ

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Chef AJ's new cookbook 'Sweet Indulgence' features over 150 healthy dessert recipes that emphasize whole ingredients and natural sweeteners.

Through a live demonstration, Chef AJ exemplifies how deliciousness can coexist with health in her Frozen Peanut Butter Chocolate Cheesecake.

The conversation underscores the communal spirit within the plant-based movement, highlighting the importance of shared knowledge and support for healthier living.

Deep dives

Introduction of Chef AJ and Her New Book

Chef AJ, a prominent figure in the plant-based community, discusses her new cookbook titled 'Sweet Indulgence,' set for release on August 27th. The book features over 150 guilt-free dessert recipes that are vegan and made from whole, clean ingredients. Chef AJ emphasizes her passion for desserts and her journey in creating healthier options while maintaining their deliciousness. She highlights that many people who follow strict diets still enjoy treats occasionally, showcasing the importance of having healthy dessert alternatives.

Intro

2min

Guilt-Free Indulgence: A New Cookbook Journey

15min

Sweet Beginnings: A Culinary Journey

7min

The Art of Cookbooks and Peanut Butter Delights

27min

Creating a Decadent Peanut Butter Mousse Dessert

2min

Delightful Dessert Demonstration

5min

Exploring the Sweet History of Brownies and Cinnabon

2min

Delightful Plant-Based Desserts

13min

Celebrating Sweet Indulgences in a Plant-Strong Life

2min

Rip welcomes the incredible Chef AJ, a beloved figure in the plant-based community, known for her generous spirit and culinary expertise.

Her new cookbook, "Sweet Indulgence," comes out on August 27th, and they dive into her journey, the inspiration behind the book, and the creative process that culminated in over 150 healthy dessert recipes.

Chef AJ also demonstrates a live recipe for her famous Frozen Peanut Butter Chocolate Cheesecake, a delightful treat that is both indulgent and guilt-free.

They discuss the health benefits of her recipes, emphasizing the importance of using whole foods and natural sweeteners like dates instead of refined sugars. Chef AJ highlights her philosophy of making desserts accessible and tempting for everyone, regardless of their dietary preferences. She shares anecdotes from her past, including her early experiences in the culinary world and her successful transition to a whole food, plant-based lifestyle.

Throughout the episode, Chef AJ's passion for cooking shines as she explains her methods, including the use of more flavorful and healthful ingredients, and the significance of recipe structure. They also touch on memorable moments at Plantstock and the supportive network within the plant-based movement.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, Chef AJ's approachable recipes aim to inspire joy and connection through the simple act of sharing dessert.

SPECIAL Food Promo for Podcast Listeners Only!

Use code: podcast10 to receive 10% off food orders at plantstrong.com

Upcoming Events:

Join us for our 2025 Plantstrong Retreat in Black Mountain, NC - Nov 9-14, 2025: https://plantstrong.com/pages/black-mountain-retreat

Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG Journey

Use Code: KALE20 for $20 off Annual Subscription at https://home.mealplanner.plantstrong.com/

COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer

Leave Us a Voicemail Question

Leave us a voicemail: https://www.speakpipe.com/plantstrong

Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstyn

https://plantstrongfoods.com/

https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong