You know what’s better than the best? When I get to write glowing reviews, for products that I absolutely adore, by people who are seriously amazing. Triple times the awesome!

But here’s the hard part: how can I truly convey the amazingness of this book? Because if you’re like me, maybe you’re used to “healthy” deserts and maybe you’re familiar with raw foods, and maybe you know that things can taste totally wonderful and fantastic in their own right, but maybe not *actually* like the thing they’re supposed to be modeled after. Do you know what I mean? Maybe?

Like, a raw burger is great and a raw taco is delicious, but . . . you’re not fooling anyone, really. Y know?

Except, then there are these cupcakes. THESE CUPCAKES! And I know you’re like, “But really, cupcakes? No way, of all the things that wouldn’t work raw, there’s just no way . . . ” And friends, I know. Except, YES!

Miniature lemon cupcakes with raspberry jam and lemon cream frosting.

Let me tell you about my friend Katie. She’s a foodie just like me, and we often share our treats and test recipes with one another. A few weeks back she came over for a walk, and as she left I gave her a couple of raw lemon poppyseed cupcakes I’d whipped up.

A few hours later I got a text: “OMG Those cupcakes are amazing!” The next day, she ordered the book, and the next time I saw her she brought some mini cupcakes of her own (pictured above). She’s made multiple recipes from the book and everybody she gives them to just can’t believe that they’re raw. They ALWAYS get rave reviews.

And of course, I’ve had just the same experience.

Blueberry cupcakes with cinnamon crumble, a huge hit at a toddler b-day party.

Guys, this book is seriously fantastic. It’s colorful and adorable and obviously crafted with love. It boasts 25 fun and creative cupcake recipes – everything from the classic chocolate chip cupcakes with chocolate frosting, to the exotic vanilla orange cupcakes with goji cream frosting. No dehydrator required! Everything I’ve tried has been spot on. And of course, it’s all gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan!

Natalia is a great writer and is nice enough to include a thorough introduction, with kitchen tips and a shopping list. Every single recipe includes a gorgeous photo, and if I’m going to be perfectly honest, I’d say the investment is worth it for the food porn alone! But best of all, Natalia is a wonderful woman who is forging her own path, following her own truth, and doing things her own way. She is self published and self funded and incredibly inspiring. I’ve had the pleasure of spending time with her on more than one occasion, and I’m always left wishing I could pick her brain just a little bit longer.

In other words, she’s super rad and deserves your support!

Dark chocolate mimi cupcakes with chocolate almond frosting. My favorites!

Cupcake Heaven would make an awesome gift for any aspiring raw foodist or health-conscious chef. You can buy it on Amazon or directly through Natalia’s site (ebook available). I just can’t recommend it enough, and I’m sure you’ll love it too.

Anyone out there tried these recipes? I’d love to hear from you!

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Tags: dessert, products, RAW, vegan

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