Chocolate Pomegranate Clusters

by ALEXA

When I reflect on Christmases of my childhood, “simplicity” comes to mind. There was nothing excessive about them—simple gifts, simple food. In retrospect, I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. “Simple” meant we could be out the door by 10 and spending the rest of the day at Hapuna Beach!

This year I thought I would follow in the footsteps of my parents. I have scaled back on the demands I would usually place on myself. The wrapping of gifts, the cooking, the baking, the getting ready for company. This year, we are going back to “simple”—and I can’t wait!

If you love pomegranates like my boys do, you’ll love this recipe for Chocolate Pomegranate Clusters. The bite is unlike any other—sweet chocolate with a burst of bright and tangy pomegranate juice. They are quite the delight and oh-so pretty! The husband calls them chocolate covered bugs. Boys!

Chocolate Pomegranate Clusters

Gluten-Free | Casein-Free | Citrus-Free | Corn-Free | Dairy-Free | Egg-Free | Fish-Free | Nightshade-Free | Peanut-Free | Potato-Free | Rice-Free |Shellfish-Free | Soy-Free | Tree Nut-Free | Wheat-Free | Grain-Free | Sesame-Free | Yeast-free | GFCF | Vegetarian | Vegan

Makes: 20
Prep Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

1 cup CHOCOLATE CHIPS (Enjoy Life® are gluten-free, dairy-free and soy-free)
1 POMEGRANATE (I used POM Wonderful®)

Directions:

1. Slice pomegranate in half and then into quarters. Place in large bowl of water and soak 5 minutes. Begin to break pomegranate apart under water, allowing arils to fall to bottom of bowl. Remove rind and membranes. Remove seeds from bowl, picking out any debris. Place on a paper towel-lined plate and blot gently with more paper towels. Arils must be completely dry. Let me stress that again, completely dry. To ensure this, I leave them out to air dry further for a couple hours or place them on a plate in a barely heated oven (that has been turned off). Any residual moisture will prevent the chocolate from binding to the arils and the clusters will fall apart.

2. Line a mini muffin pan with 20 mini muffin cups/liners.

3. Pour chocolate chips into a heavy-duty zip top bag, shake down into one corner. Place in microwave and heat in 15-20 second intervals, removing each time to knead. Continue until chocolate is smooth and viscous. Squeeze chocolate down into one corner. Snip off a tiny corner to make a makeshift piping bag.

4. Drizzle chocolate into bottom of cups. Add a layer of pomegranate arils to each cup. Drizzle with more chocolate. Repeat so that you have four layers of chocolate and three layers of arils.

5. Allow to harden in a cool, dry place.

How to Remove Seeds (Arils) From a Pomegranate

Slice pomegranate in half (or quarters) and place in large bowl of water to soak for 5 minutes. Begin to break pomegranate apart under the water, allowing arils to fall to bottom of bowl. Remove rind and membranes. Remove seeds from bowl, picking out any bits of membrane. Place on a paper-towel lined plate and blot gently with more paper towels until arils are completely dry.

More Good Stuff

339 comments

Denise B December 7, 2011 - 12:12 pm

We are not going to visit my mother's family this year so no traveling more than 45 miles! no overnights anywhere simplfies everything! Plus our family is simply spending time together with gifts only for the kids! This helps us all in many ways. My father's family decided on no gifts at all, just time together. Focusing on family this year makes for a much better holiday!

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Shirley @ gfe December 7, 2011 - 12:42 pm

Lexie, what a fantastic job on your recipe and this post! Thanks so much for participating. I can't wait to make these goodies these evening. I have two pomegranates that I wasn't sure how I was going to be using. Now I do. I suspect that Mr. GFE will like the nickname that your hubby gave these treats … as you say "boys!" LOL, but true! 😉

Adore your photo! I have always tried to get photos using silver trays and they never come out right, but your shot is perfect with the pretty pattern reflecting in the tray. 🙂

Love the family photo and your approach to the holidays! They really should be simple and meaningful. I'm rethinking my own "style" for this year right now. 😉

xoxo,
Shirley

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christine roeske December 7, 2011 - 12:56 pm

We are simplifying our Christmas this year by not traveling for the holidays!

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christine roeske December 7, 2011 - 12:58 pm

http://twitter.com/#!/christigpa/status/144400201174626304

Tweeted your post today!

christigpa at gmail dot com

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Carissa December 7, 2011 - 1:02 pm

We are "simplifying" the holidays by doing a fun gift exchange. We each buy a gift, but it has to start with the first letter of our last name.

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Seeks December 7, 2011 - 1:03 pm

My husband and I have never done Christmas on a large scale, but my family does. I've made a point to worry less about presents for people I'm not close to and instead focus on presents I'm committed to.

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Carissa December 7, 2011 - 1:05 pm

Shared on Facebook:)

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Heather December 7, 2011 - 1:06 pm

This year due to my husband's deployment, I am keeping everything very low key. I look forward to making these treat with my little one. Thanks for sharing!

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Carissa December 7, 2011 - 1:06 pm

Shared on Twitter:)

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Kristine December 7, 2011 - 1:10 pm

I like to think that we generally keep it simple. To keep from getting overwhelmed, I work on 10 Christmas cards a day till they're done, have a goal of so many gifts bought/made per week, and enjoy a date night with each of my kids over the course of the month to appreciate each one of them!

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Shari December 7, 2011 - 1:11 pm

We are only cooking gluten free baked goods this Holiday season Our home is fully gluten free now! Yay! Great post! Love pomegranates- and had not thought of putting with chocolate. callshari@yahoo (dot) come

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Andrea M December 7, 2011 - 1:14 pm

This year we are simplifying our holidays by making things a little more casual – we used to get all dressed up to go to my parents with the whole family on Christmas eve. It is much more relaxed now. All around a great evening with the whole family!

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Shari December 7, 2011 - 1:16 pm

RT'd on Twitter. Love your Twitter background BTW- so cheerful!

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Johanna B December 7, 2011 - 1:32 pm

We're having a quiet day with just the immediate family. Presents in the morning and a nice brunch midday. The only "little one" this year is my new grandson and at 7 mos old he really doesn't care about Christmas. He does like the lights though.

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Diana G December 7, 2011 - 1:33 pm

Fact is, we don't really do anything much for the holidays. We like to sneak away and get away from the craziness. Our sanity is more important. thanks. Love the recipe and the books.

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Sarah Louise December 7, 2011 - 1:35 pm

Hi Alexa! I've been following your story about avoiding gluten, dairy, eggs, corn, excess sugar/fruit, preservatives. My way of simplifying the holidays comes in the form of ordering a book and dvd for each of my 5 family members, and then being done shopping for the year!

*The best book I have bought so far is Your Right to Know: Genetic Engineering and the secret changes in your food* by Andrew Kimbrall from the Center for Food Safety.

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Maggie December 7, 2011 - 1:36 pm

You're a genius! I LOVE this recipe. xo

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Jessica Holmes December 7, 2011 - 1:39 pm

I bought all my Christmas gifts back in August so I wasn't rushed!

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Cheryl December 7, 2011 - 1:45 pm

I think I'll make these for a party I'm going to!
We are keeping it more simple for the holidays this year by not traveling out of state.

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Cheryl December 7, 2011 - 1:49 pm

Shared on FB!

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Cheryl December 7, 2011 - 1:49 pm

(also shared on Twitter)

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Kate December 7, 2011 - 1:52 pm

I've invited church families who don't have family gatherings Christmas Day to a Potluck after church…trying to give myself something to look forward too, since travelling isn't an option for us, and not all our children will be home this Christmas again.
So making those choco. pomegranates ! love the recipe…

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Jacqui December 7, 2011 - 1:53 pm

these are absolutely beautiful! I wish I like pomegranates… however, my husband does.. so I think I'll be making these for him!

We simplify Christmas by staying home on Christmas Eve. Just my husband, daughter and I. Early in the day I make lots of maki rolls and sushi, and that's what we have for dinner along with watching A Christmas Story. It's relaxing and nice to just spend time together.

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julie December 7, 2011 - 1:55 pm

I haven't figured out yet how to simplify the holidays, they are always crazy!!

Thanks for the recipe it looks great!

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Denise December 7, 2011 - 1:56 pm

Our Christmas has to be simple as we have no income due to my hubbs stroke. Just gluten free cookies and candy to make for the three of us. Thanks for the recipe and chance to win! Dee

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Sharon December 7, 2011 - 1:57 pm

I am building all of the furniture for my daughter's dollhouse this year so the baking has to be cut way back. I am doing quick things like Chex mix and peanut brittle and this recipe looks like it will fit right in with that theme!!

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Sarah M December 7, 2011 - 2:03 pm

We always have a little trouble keeping it simple during the holidays. Things are always simpler if we can keep dad out of the grocery store!

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Gigi December 7, 2011 - 2:11 pm

Lexie,
These are lovely and I'll sure be giving them a try! Two of my favorites together… Yum!

xoxo,
Gigi 😉

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Brenda Lewis December 7, 2011 - 2:20 pm

We are simplifying this year by each getting only one gift that starts with the first letter of our last name, numbering it, then drawing numbers, trades are allowed. It will be a fun thing to do Christmas morning without the pressure to make this the day that everyone is supposed to get everything they've wanted all year. I tell my kids, "it's not YOUR birthday, it's Jesus'. When it's your birthday, I buy your presents, when it's His, we'll buy him presents (giving to the poor) Other than that making yummy food, and spending time with family make Christmas special to us!

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Lily December 7, 2011 - 2:21 pm

We are simplifying the holidays by trying to keep in mind what's really important, and not get caught up in trivial details. Letting the kids enjoy gifts. Being with family. Enjoying time off work!

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Brenda Lewis December 7, 2011 - 2:26 pm

shared on facebook

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Stephanie December 7, 2011 - 2:35 pm

Thanks for the post and give-away. I love that there are only two ingredients in this recipe and it still looks super yummy! Yay for simplicity. This is the first Christmas that my husband and I are celebrating as a married couple so I have a feeling that it's not going to be simple! We're going to be traveling around to visit each of our families as much as possible during the holidays! Thanks again!

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Stephanie December 7, 2011 - 2:41 pm

I shared this post on Facebook!

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Stephanie December 7, 2011 - 2:44 pm

I shared this post on Twitter – http://twitter.com/livelocaliveraw

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Kim c December 7, 2011 - 2:55 pm

We don't have much extra money this year so we aren't doing many gifts and I'm very excited to simplify. I love pomegranates I definitely want to try this.

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Dana Coughlin December 7, 2011 - 2:56 pm

I'm going to keep the Christmas dinner menu very simple this year.

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Dana Coughlin December 7, 2011 - 2:57 pm

Shared on Facebook

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Heidi @adventuresofaglutenfreemom.com December 7, 2011 - 2:58 pm

I can't recall ever seeing a more beautiful holiday treat, these are GORGEOUS Lexie! And I'm with you this year, going back to simple for the holidays and taking it easy on the baking and my tendency to buy too many gifts – I think this has been one of my favorite holiday seasons so far, I'm actually getting to participate instead of doing all the grunt work (and stressing till the cows come home).

Love the photo of your family, thank you so much for sharing a special part of your past with us!

xoxo,
Heidi

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Dana Coughlin December 7, 2011 - 3:01 pm

Posted on Twitter

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Rowan December 7, 2011 - 3:04 pm

Those look delicious! I have a bunch of pomegranate seeds left in my freezer… somehow they haven't been devoured yet! I think this is what I'll be doing.

This year to simplify we'll be staying home instead of traveling. Miss out on some family time, but so much less stress! I'll also just be giving gifts to fewer folks this year, and while I make most of them myself – which can be overwhelming – it saves money in a big way.

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Paula December 7, 2011 - 3:08 pm

I am buying a Pomegranate today and trying the recepice tonight! I plan to simplify holidays this year by spending it alonw with just my husband. It's our first Christmas together.

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Rowan December 7, 2011 - 3:08 pm

Shared on Twitter 🙂

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Paula December 7, 2011 - 3:09 pm

Fackbook

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Joanie H December 7, 2011 - 3:11 pm

Thank you for sharing this simple, but delightful recipe! This year, we are simplifying our Christmas season by getting gifts for just the nieces and nephews (instead of all the siblings too), shopped early for our own children's gifts and packages are going out in the mail tomorrow, shared baked goodies with the neighbors on St. Nicholas Day and the Christmas cards are nearly finished too ~ which means it's December 7th and we're nearly done with the "busy stuff" and we can rest and reflect in the coming days. So looking forward to it!

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Joanie H December 7, 2011 - 3:15 pm

I posted this on facebook.

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Lisa December 7, 2011 - 3:20 pm

Beautiful photo of these fabulous treats, Lexie! We all love pomogranates in my family; I will definitely be making these!

We will not be traveling this year, which makes the holidays much simpler. Only a few small gifts, which have been purchased throughout the year, for our child. And I'll be planning my menus using many recipes from some of my favorite blogs! =)

Happy Holidays to you,
Lisa

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Michelle W. December 7, 2011 - 3:21 pm

My husband loves pomegranates, and I think he could even manage to make these! Having my husband home this year, and not deployed, always makes things simpler in our home. Plus just trying to keep myself organised really helps too!

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Rachel Williams December 7, 2011 - 3:23 pm

Our Holidays are already pretty simple. We've never had much, but we make sure the family is together and that's what really matters.

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Rachel Williams December 7, 2011 - 3:25 pm Reply
Sharon December 7, 2011 - 3:28 pm

I need to work on simplifying the holidays. I feel like more things keep getting added in each year and I need to stream line the process a little and just enjoy! Thanks for the reminder!!

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Sharon December 7, 2011 - 3:29 pm

Tweeted post.

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Paulaa December 7, 2011 - 3:47 pm

At the moment it seems that I'm simplifying the holidays, but I think it's more that I'm procrastinating all of my baking…

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Starbright December 7, 2011 - 3:49 pm

We are homeschooling this year for the first time. Spending time in the kitchen with the kids will be done as part of their schooling – teching and creating t the same time. No more hustling through recipes for a late light baking session. This is going to bring cherished memories and I am so looking forward to it!

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Sarah S December 7, 2011 - 3:49 pm

This year we are giving each child only two presents, and stocking stuffers. We are taking more time to do things as a family creating memories for years to come.

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Sarah S December 7, 2011 - 3:51 pm

I posted this on Facebook

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Sarah S December 7, 2011 - 3:52 pm

I posted this on Twitter

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Arlee December 7, 2011 - 3:58 pm

I plan to simplify my holiday season by making more raw meals and desserts =) THis recipe looks so yummy!!!

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Arlee December 7, 2011 - 4:00 pm

I shared on my FB =) Thanks for the great giveaway!

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Amanda December 7, 2011 - 4:00 pm

This year is the first year we will be having a g-free holiday. Instead of getting caught up in replicating recipes with 5 different types of flours and complicated instructions, I plan on focusing on foods that are naturally gluten-free, just like your recipe today!

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Karen December 7, 2011 - 4:01 pm

simplifying the holidays by only shopping in little local stores on the island. and keeping purchases to a minimum and giving mostly gifts from the kitchen……more than one month gluten free and still learning. this giveaway came at the perfect time. thank you.

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Karen December 7, 2011 - 4:07 pm

liked and shared on facebook. thanks again for the chance to win a fabulous cookbook.

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Amanda December 7, 2011 - 4:22 pm

I just shared this post on twitter…

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Christine B December 7, 2011 - 4:24 pm

My husband prefers simple, so our holidays tend to be that. Most of the gifts have been purchased and wrapped already, and the few that haven't are ones I'm making. We'll spend Christmas Eve with extended family, and have Christmas day for our own little family, to relax and enjoy the day rather than rushing around.

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Kristin W. December 7, 2011 - 4:29 pm

I keep it simple just by keeping it simple…one kind of cookie everyone likes, basic decorating, common sense gifts and a variety of horderves that everyone loves.

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Pascale D December 7, 2011 - 4:39 pm

Hello, so happy that I've just discovered your page on facebook & your website. A friend of mine had posted your chocolate -pomegranate clusters. I reposted it too. I had to start eating gluten free & dairy free in summer 2010. It has helped my IBS & fibromyalgia. But being a French native living in the USA & loving Italian cuisine, the transition was not an easdy one. It went much better than I expected but I miss baking & finding desserts that are GF & DF. I happen to have ingredients at home so I'm going to give these choco-pom clusters a try today! Thanks again. happy for the chance to win!!

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KellyM December 7, 2011 - 4:41 pm

Every year when I leave Oregon to go visit Southern California I have these grand plans of cooking new and exotic meals for my family (I'm in charge of meals because I seem to have the easiest time meeting everyone's needs: pre-diabetic, inability to digest high fat content foods, lactose-intolerance, and gluten intolerance. I also have the most time to cook because its my vacation and not anyone else's (I teach)). This year, while I have a few fun ideas for Christmas Eve, all of my recipes are favorites I've discovered through the year and have plenty of practice at. Most of them are even blasphemously simple for the holiday season.

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Merrill R. December 7, 2011 - 4:41 pm

I bought all my Christmas presents early so it's not a rush at the last minute. Now if only I could get myself to wrap them….This recipe looks great!

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Merrill R. December 7, 2011 - 4:42 pm

shared this post on facebook. thanks for the opportunity to win!

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Deborah M. December 7, 2011 - 4:42 pm

I am simplifying the holidays this year by not trying to find gifts no-one wants. We each put a wish list on Amazon of our needs/maybe a want. All shopping done by the end of November. Not putting as many decorations up this year. Keeping it simple.

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[email protected] December 7, 2011 - 4:46 pm

Simplify? I shop online and avoid the stores like the plague!

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[email protected] December 7, 2011 - 4:46 pm

shared on facebook!

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Nicole December 7, 2011 - 4:48 pm

My husband's family is coming from overseas- that will help with all the food preparations!

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Cara December 7, 2011 - 4:53 pm

Chocolate and pomegranate, what a great combination! I just tried some dairy-free pomegranate chocolate ice cream that was fabulous. Love the idea of simplifying my holidays by making simpler recipes like this 🙂

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Alena M December 7, 2011 - 4:54 pm

I am focussing on family, and spending more time with my loved ones, even though there are only going to be 4 of us together. I want to spend it talking, playing games, hikinh and being together.

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Cara December 7, 2011 - 4:54 pm

shared on FB 🙂

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Cara December 7, 2011 - 4:55 pm

stumbled 🙂

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Heather Brandt December 7, 2011 - 4:55 pm

We're not making as many gluten free cookies as last year which will simply cooking for me this year.

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Linda S. December 7, 2011 - 5:10 pm

simplifying?? Hmmm…well… Less shopping and more thought for what can I make for special gifts…my niece (17) is saving things in her hope chest for marriage…she made herself a lavender crochet baby blanket…I am making her a lavender baby hat to go with that as her Christmas gift.

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Linda S. December 7, 2011 - 5:11 pm

I shared on facebook and "like" you on facebook.

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Julie December 7, 2011 - 5:11 pm

Love that pomagrante in water idea…gonna save me a lot of time!

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Tracy M December 7, 2011 - 5:29 pm

We are simple this year because we aren't travelling…it used to be a 6.5 hrs drive to visit my parents, then we moved back "home". After that it was a 6.5 hr drive to visit hubby's parents. Now they moved up here. We are having a quiet Christmas just visiting family trying now recipes because we have new food intolerance's with the kids this year. It's actually fun to spend the extra time with my 9 year old daughter looking for recipes to try.

Thank you for sharing, and thank you for the great giveaways.

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Georgianna December 7, 2011 - 5:30 pm

I love the Pom Cluster idea, it's been one of my fruits of choice lately! I am simplifying the holiday by splitting more of the load with my husband to be this year, such as each of us making cookies and writing cards. The past two years haven't allowed him the time to help me, so it will be a great simplification!

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shannon December 7, 2011 - 5:38 pm

We are actually staying home for the first time in 15 years. I am going to simplify my "baking gifts" by adding these treasures! Thanks for sharing!

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Amanda M December 7, 2011 - 5:39 pm

Um, wow! Those look so great. To simplify my holidays we stay at home, limit presents (we are DONE buying), only buy what we can afford and don't feel badly about it. We celebrate what Christmas is really about and enjoy each other. 🙂

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Amanda M December 7, 2011 - 5:41 pm Reply
Amanda M December 7, 2011 - 5:42 pm Reply
Georgianna December 7, 2011 - 5:49 pm

Posted it on facebook! 🙂

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Rachel Blom December 7, 2011 - 5:52 pm

Those look like Christmas!
We are simplify the holidays by not travelling or trying to make all the different family gatherings. Too overwhelming for me especially since this is our first gluten, artificial colors, artificial flavors, BHA, BHT, and MSG free Christmas.

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debra z December 7, 2011 - 6:03 pm

I simplified the holidays by starting a new family tradition whereas only the children get gifts. It really reduces the stress of trying to figure out what to get an adult – usually we just end up with junk we have to return or exchange so on top of the time we spent getting the gift (only to have the recipient return it) we were also wasting the time we had to spend returning or exchanging said gift. It's been much less stressful around the holidays now! We can focus on baking and just spending time together! 😀

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Suzanne H December 7, 2011 - 6:05 pm

I always try to keep meals simple. I also like to make big batches so we can have leftovers.

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Suzanne H December 7, 2011 - 6:07 pm

I posted on FB.

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Suzanne H December 7, 2011 - 6:07 pm

I tweeted.

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Tracy December 7, 2011 - 6:32 pm

I love your site Lexie! These look yummy… I've never tried pomegranate but I want to try now. To simplify Christmas this year we are staying home and trying to minimize the gift giving and just do more quality time!

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Janell December 7, 2011 - 6:48 pm

Those look fantastic! I love good food thats simple to make 🙂 I tend to go overboard around christmas, so simple treats are great!

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Cecimami December 7, 2011 - 6:56 pm

We're keeping it simple by hosting (so the family comes to us). Will definitely be making this recipe…thanks! 🙂

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Louise December 7, 2011 - 7:04 pm

It's just going to be my husband and I with our new baby girl. Thanks for sharing this yummy recipe.

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Valerie December 7, 2011 - 7:08 pm

We are simplifying the holidays this year by going to one set of our parents for Christmas Eve and the other parents for Christmas, not trying to cram in both sets of parents on both days.

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Laura @ Gluten Free Pantry December 7, 2011 - 7:08 pm

What a wonderful and easy recipe! I am crazy about pomegranates. We are staying home this year which makes it easier for us.

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Valerie December 7, 2011 - 7:09 pm

I tweeted about the giveaway

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Sara December 7, 2011 - 7:09 pm

I'm trying to simplify the holidays by doing all of my Christmas shopping online or getting gift cards. Much easier than heading to the stores :).

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Kelly Heavener December 7, 2011 - 7:23 pm

How are is this recipe! i just bought pomegranates yesterday for a smoothie. I have never used them before. I have everything to make this and can't wait to try it! Thank so much!

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Kelly Heavener December 7, 2011 - 7:24 pm

I just shared this on Facebook! My previous post was meant to say How awesome is this recipe!!! Thanks again 🙂

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SherriS. December 7, 2011 - 7:25 pm

I'm simplifying by spending less money but buying more meaningful things. (The clusters look so festive and delicious!) *If I'm lucky enough to win – I already own both of Elana's books

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Kelly Heavener December 7, 2011 - 7:25 pm

I am not putting up a tree this year, since we are going to visit family. I also am buying the kids less.

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Megan December 7, 2011 - 7:31 pm

These clusters are so pretty! I've never tried pomegranates before (the whole process of trying to get the seeds out seems so complicated) but your recipe may just force me to buy one to try!

Simplifying the holidays really is something we all should do. We have decided to not travel this year either (sounds like there are a number of people doing that). As hard of a decision that is, it really is making for a less stressful holiday season. Plus, it gives me more time to experiment in the kitchen!!

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Suzanne H December 7, 2011 - 7:32 pm

I stumbled the post.

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Megan December 7, 2011 - 7:34 pm

shared on facebook..

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Sarah L December 7, 2011 - 7:42 pm

Making these wonderful treats will definitely keep my holiday simple! Also, with my husband's family we do a gift exchange where we are matched with one other person in the family and buy them a gift with a value of $30 or less…how simple is that!

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Jeanne December 7, 2011 - 7:52 pm

I love pomegranates! Thanks for this post! They're so cute!

This year we are simplifying the holidays by making easy make-ahead meals and enjoying family time more.

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kelly December 7, 2011 - 7:56 pm

These are adorable and look so festive! I always wondered what to do with a fresh pomegranate and now I know! I love the taste of juice and the healthy benefits but have always been perplexed by what to make with it.
I haven't figured out a way to simplify the holidays any more than I have in past years but I will be reading everyone's ideas and hopefully implementing a few;) Thanks for the great recipe!

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Neva December 7, 2011 - 8:30 pm

We have been reducing the number of gifts we are buying. Do an exhange within the family, no longer buy for adult siblings. We are having Christmas over 3 days, one day for our family and a meal for each side of the family. Much more time to spend visiting, less rush and hustle. I am taking time to enjoy the season this year.

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KellyB December 7, 2011 - 8:35 pm

Hi
Those candies look perfect for the season. I am keeping things simple by doing more online shopping instead of going store to store . And we don't buy for "everyone".

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Kim(Cook It Allergy Free) December 7, 2011 - 8:45 pm

Okay. These are unbelievable. And they will be made in my house by this afternoon. I have had a pomegranate left in my fridge for a couple of weeks because my kids got tired of eating them in salads. LOL So NOW I know exactly what to do with it! This is a gorgeous post and a beautiful picture of your family and, of course, a gorgeous picture of those clusters!
xo

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Arleen December 7, 2011 - 8:52 pm

Oh my! Pomegranate AND chocolate. At once. Only. Brilliant!

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MaryK December 7, 2011 - 9:02 pm

Shop on-line.

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Stephanie December 7, 2011 - 9:04 pm

I hadn't planned on simplifying the holidays this year. However, my health is forcing it upon me. I am searching my favorite blogs for quick and easy things such as these candies to make. With awesomeness like this nobody will realize that I simplified! Thanks Lexi!

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Sharon December 7, 2011 - 9:30 pm

These clusters look so festive ! I will simplify this year by finishing my shopping earlier, wrapping earlier, cleaning earlier and planning meals ahead.

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Cathy Trammel December 7, 2011 - 9:33 pm

I'm new to this blogging culture. The last blog I followed religiously was when my son was studying abroad for a semester. But your network of gluten-free bloggers has opened up a whole new world! I don't know which recipe to try first. And a REALLY BIG THANKS for the illustrated step-by-step instructions on how to get those seeds, I mean Anils, out of pomegranates without painting myself and my kitchen red!

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Anna December 7, 2011 - 9:38 pm

We are simplifying the holidays this year by taking a family trip to disneyland instead of traveling around to hit all the extended families houses! We're looking forward to a fun and less stressful day.

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Sarah C December 7, 2011 - 9:39 pm

I don't think that we are simplifying this year. We are going on a trip for Christmas, to see relatives. I am rather excited. Christmas with just my husband and I on Christmas day is… as simple as it can get. Hopefully later we will have kids to make us want to keep it to its utmost simple. Until then, let it be crazy!

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Jen S. December 7, 2011 - 9:43 pm

Liked and shared on FB. These look so good and I love pomegranate.

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Kate December 7, 2011 - 9:54 pm

I love this simple idea – last year I went crazy making all sorts of things for our family's first gluten-free Xmas. This year I have moved to Japan, so Christmas will be super simple and rudimentarily gf. But these are the perfect dessert! thanks for posting

http://eatrecyclerepeat,wordpress.com/

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Becka December 7, 2011 - 10:00 pm

This is my baby's second Christmas! YAAAAAAAY! I'm also back in school, on my way to being a high school Biology teacher. With this busy schedule, I'm back to letting my mom do most of it! The day of, we trade off baby duty and chef duties. It'll be wonderful!

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Fiona December 7, 2011 - 10:10 pm

I'm simplifying my holidays by not buying any gifts. I've requested to everyone else that they buy no gifts either. I want to focus on the family/gathering aspect of Christmas…and, of course, it saves money. As you will have guessed, there's no kids in my immediate family. 🙂

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Fiona December 7, 2011 - 10:12 pm

It's on my Facebook.

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Alisa December 7, 2011 - 10:12 pm

Adorable! And YUM! Making those today 🙂

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Catherine December 7, 2011 - 10:15 pm

I plan to simplify the holidays by not running around all over the place. I want to make a simple meal and just have the family chill and maybe play some games or watch movies.

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Niv December 7, 2011 - 10:37 pm

I plan to simplify the holidays by taking some extra time off and take it easy with the family and maybe finally strike some things off the ever growing todo list.

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Jackie December 7, 2011 - 10:39 pm

Hi, our holidays are always pretty simple sine we make the same traditional dishes. We keep it low key and stick to the Polish traditions!

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Jackie December 7, 2011 - 10:39 pm

I "liked" this post on stumbleupon!

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Amy December 7, 2011 - 11:28 pm

Love this! So simple and fresh. We'll definitely make these this Christmas season!

We are "simplifying" by easing up on our homeschooling schedule this month and focusing on Christmas. With so many other things to do…decorating, cooking, meetings, social events, parties galore, etc…there's barely room for anything else. But we usually plan to take most of December off of school, so it won't wreck our school calendar at all.

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Amy December 7, 2011 - 11:32 pm

I also shared on facebook.

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kathy December 7, 2011 - 11:58 pm

We will simplify with less presents, more family time and simple wholesome foods. The choc pomegrante seeds sound delish!

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Paula B December 8, 2011 - 12:00 am

We thought about getting a prelighted artificial tree this year, as one thing I dislike is putting lights on and taking them off. But it seems we just can't bring ourselves to do it!

These little treats look beautiful!

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kathy December 8, 2011 - 12:01 am

I 'liked' you on FB

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kathy December 8, 2011 - 12:03 am

Now following on twitter

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AJ December 8, 2011 - 12:08 am

Great idea!

To simplify the holidays, we are staying home.

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SAndy Crawford December 8, 2011 - 12:11 am

Im hoping to simplify this year by not traveling and taking more time at home with my family.

Sandy C

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Chelle December 8, 2011 - 12:24 am

Thanks for doing this!

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Allyssa B December 8, 2011 - 12:47 am

This is so simple but I never thought of it. Thank you so much! I am sharing this with a good friend. We used to have pomegranate together in college all the time around the holidays. What a great way to jazz up a memory.

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Carolyn December 8, 2011 - 1:10 am

Just gifts for the kids this year. My kids love pomegranates. I can imagine their faces when they see them covered in chocolate! Thanks for the recipe.

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Heidi Fluegel December 8, 2011 - 1:27 am

I am simplifying by cutting back on how much cooking I am doing. It has made it so much simpler!

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Susan W. December 8, 2011 - 1:52 am

This year we are not exchanging gifts. We are having a cozy dinner, just my husband, his parents and me. We have yet to decide what to have for dinner but I'm thinking there are several recipes here to choose from!

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Stephanie December 8, 2011 - 2:05 am

This year my family is going away for Christmas. The trip is our gift! So we're not doing presents. Christmas will be simplified and brought "back to its true meaning" by simply enjoying our time together.

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Stephanie December 8, 2011 - 2:06 am

Shared on FB!

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Rachel December 8, 2011 - 2:06 am

These look so amazing. I love how the little pomegranate gems stand out against the dark chocolate!

As for simplifying the holidays…well, mine are never very complicated. But, I will probably do my usual baking to balance work, and teach/practice some yoga to let go of any stress.

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Stephanie December 8, 2011 - 2:06 am

And posted on Twitter. 🙂

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Rachel December 8, 2011 - 2:06 am

Shared this on facebook, too.

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Laura H December 8, 2011 - 2:13 am

I am trying to cook in advance and freeze some meals since I am having some overseas guests. Thanks for the giveaway!

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tina December 8, 2011 - 2:34 am

We are simplifying by staying home and letting the company come to us! I am trying to work on the cleaning a little at a time because that tends to be the worst part to me.

I have a question about the recipe, milk chocolate or semisweet chips? I am sure either would work, but which do people prefer? I am going to buy a pomegranate tomorrow!

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Rebecca December 8, 2011 - 2:38 am

We are staying local and having a g.f. dinner with friends!

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Sue December 8, 2011 - 2:41 am

I keep the shopping to a minimum. We stay home and watch old Christmas movies instead of going out.
[email protected]

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Megan December 8, 2011 - 2:54 am

I will definitely not be simplifying this year! I am turned my families famous candy cane cookies into a GF/DF addition.. and doing the same with our pizzels we make every year! It can't get much better than that! Thank you for the opportunity!

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Megan December 8, 2011 - 2:55 am

Reposted on my facebook page! 🙂

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Ronnda Stapleton December 8, 2011 - 2:55 am

How am I "simplifying" the holidays this year? I am NOT! I LOVE this season, and it only comes once a year, so we embrace it! Even though our kids are in college it's nice when they return home and we celebrate the season. Boyfriends and girlfriends now join our family in many of our traditions. However, the one area that is off limits is the annual picture with Santa…once they marry into the family then they can join us on that one. Happy Holidays! 🙂

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Monique December 8, 2011 - 3:09 am

I'm a newly diagnosed celiac, so these will be my first gluten free holidays. I guess I will be making my life simpler by not eating things that make me sick. But I also need to figure out how to make myself some amazing gluten-free treats, so the process might not be that simple – but I'm up for the challenge 🙂

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Megan Holder December 8, 2011 - 3:17 am

Lexie- I love how simple this recipe is! Sometimes simple is so much better. My holiday season will be pretty simple this year for the fact that I am not hosting Christmas, but I plan to help my sister with the cooking so technically maybe that's not considered simple. :). Anyway, enough of my ranting, thanks for the "simple" but delicious-looking recipe! I think this recipe would also be a nice treat at Valentine's Day.

Happy Holidays!
Megan

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Megan Holder December 8, 2011 - 3:31 am

I shared this recipe on Facebook, tagging you. 🙂

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Jodi December 8, 2011 - 3:35 am

I really need to work at simplifying the holidays! The dessert looks so amazing I might just bring it to the company pot luck!

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Carol December 8, 2011 - 3:36 am

Keeping it simple…or going to try. Every year I am frantic about getting the perfect Christmas card picture…this year I'm not doing it. Kids will be happy. I'm also trying to just keep gifts to a minimum…and focus on our family being together. 🙂

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Carol December 8, 2011 - 3:37 am

Just shared on facebook. 🙂

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Sarah L December 8, 2011 - 3:55 am

Posted on Facebook!

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Lynn December 8, 2011 - 3:58 am

The hubby and I are simplifying the holidays by agreeing not to buy each other gifts. We're also staying home, I'm making lots of cookies to give away and we'll enjoy time with friends. Thank gosh for the ability to Skype family on Christmas day!

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Dionne R December 8, 2011 - 3:58 am

I shared this simple but delightful sounding recipe on my FB page! My daughter loves pulling the seeds out of pomegranates so we are going to have a blast trying these!

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Dionne R December 8, 2011 - 4:00 am

We're simplifying our holidays this year by asking the grandparents to give less "stuff" for gifts and more experience based gifts for our daughter.

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Simone December 8, 2011 - 4:16 am

I re-tweeted on Twitter! This looks fabulous…I can't wait to make these!!!

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Laura S December 8, 2011 - 4:20 am

I am recently diagnosed (August) and have a severe wheat allergy as well so I am paranoid about being away from home and specifically worry about spending any length of time at my parents or my in laws. So, I'm not sure it qualifies as simplifying but we are going to limit our traveling which means hopefully we can avoid some of the pomp and circumstance of the holidays and avoid the mass amounts of wheat they consume…

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Simone December 8, 2011 - 4:21 am

I will be simplifying this year by baking with few ingredients and ones that I readily have on hand such as almond flour, Stevia, vanilla extract and organic dark chocolate. So all treats will require minimal preparation and be guilt free as well! This one fits the bill perfectly- thanks for sharing! 🙂

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Rowan December 8, 2011 - 4:30 am

Shared on Facebook!

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Krista December 8, 2011 - 4:32 am

To simplify the holidays my extended family decided not to give gifts to each other this year. Instead we will all apply the money we would have spent toward getting together next summer for a family reunion.

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Jenny Erb December 8, 2011 - 4:52 am

I'm simplifying the holidays by doing a small handmade item as a mass gift this year instead of any gift exchanges. Excited to try this simple recipe and would love to win some cookbooks!!!

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Elizabeth December 8, 2011 - 5:06 am

I'm simplifying by simply stressing less and taking life as it comes!

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Angie M. December 8, 2011 - 5:08 am

This is our 1st GF Christmas! In the last 7 months we've done LOTS of experimenting including different homemade all-purpose flour mixes. For all the traditional baking this Christmas, I've decided to just buy a good all-purpose mix to save time! Hope all my traditional cookies, goodies & breads come out as good as before GF!

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Andi December 8, 2011 - 5:12 am

Pomegranates have always been part of this holiday since I was a very little girl… I can't wait to make these and take them to share with my dad this Christmas. Two of his favorite things – together!

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Andi December 8, 2011 - 5:20 am

Posted on Facebook :}

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Karol December 8, 2011 - 5:35 am

We are simplifying by not traveling this holiday, we will be staying home and taking it easy.

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Karol December 8, 2011 - 5:35 am

I shared this on facebook.

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Annette December 8, 2011 - 6:04 am

We are "simplifying" Christmas by staying at home and spending it with family.

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Hanri December 8, 2011 - 7:39 am

This year we are simplifying Christmas dinner and only making just enough food for four people so that there will be no waist. A small duck, some veg and a gluten-free Christmas pudding. Delicious and enjoyable for everyone.
I love your photos!

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AnnMarie Deis December 8, 2011 - 9:24 am

We are keeping Christmas simple by curbing the perfectionist motivation. What gets done gets done and what doesn't probably wasn't vital to the holiday anyways. I am really loving the gluten-free recipes and ideas! I am inspired!!!!! I have two pomegranates that are just waiting for this simple and lovely recipe. Thanks!

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AnnMarie Deis December 8, 2011 - 9:24 am

I posted to my Facebook page!

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AnnMarie Deis December 8, 2011 - 9:25 am

And to my Twitter account as well!!!

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Carolyn December 8, 2011 - 11:07 am

Ahh the simple life for us is not traveling this Christmas and only giving handmade goodies.
carriemak at aol dot com

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Cindy Padgett December 8, 2011 - 11:54 am

Those pomegranate clusters are so beautiful for Christmas. My girls will love them. We dont try to hard yet to simplify because we love the traditions we have started.

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Susan December 8, 2011 - 1:56 pm

I keep trying to simplify my holidays, but never seem to actually make it happen! I always find "one more recipe" that I just have to try…. I thought going GF would slow that down, but now I just have a whole new stack of recipe cards lined up across the kitchen counter! These pomegrante goodies are now printed out and the ingredients are on the shopping list. I love how they look like little red jewels drizzled in chocolate. mmmmmmmm

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Gail December 8, 2011 - 2:55 pm

WOW! How simple can a recipe get. Will definitely make these. We plan to get together with family for dinner and each person is going to bring one dishe from the main course. How easy is that! Another awesome giveaway. Thanks and Merry Christmas.

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Meghan December 8, 2011 - 2:58 pm

I will be simplifying by using fresher ingredients. Everything will be gluten and dairy free, and there will be very few eggs seen

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Patricia Brooks December 8, 2011 - 3:27 pm

I had to share this site/post on facebook for all my friends who are gluten-free! This is a great site for all of us who are new to the gf/cf lifestyle, thank you.

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=1550864181

[email protected]

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Karla December 8, 2011 - 3:37 pm

Ooh, those look really good! Pomegranates have a tendency to scare me off, though (same thing with coconuts).

I've gotten the GF Almond Flour Cookbook from the library and really like it; as a result I checked out the author's website and have bookmarked a bunch of her yummy recipes. Man, I would LOVE a Vitamix!

This year I pared down my Christmas letter to one page instead of TWO and ordered photo cards from cardstore.com (free addressing, shipping AND stamps!) to go along with them. The kiddos are just getting small gifts in their stockings and my extended family isn't exchanging gifts this year. It still feels just as crazy, though!

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Audrey J December 8, 2011 - 3:41 pm

I am simplifying by not trying to do as much. Less decorating, less baking, etc.

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Karla December 8, 2011 - 3:42 pm Reply
Pamela December 8, 2011 - 3:51 pm

I love this recipe!!! Its quick and simple. I am always looking for something to take to a friends house as a little treat. PERFECT! Thankyou

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Ellen December 8, 2011 - 4:03 pm

We're combining celebrations with different parts of the family to have more of a pot-luck celebration rather than one person hosting!

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vanessa toll December 8, 2011 - 5:33 pm

I plan on simplifying by making my gifts this year. i also plan on focusing on spending my time with our immediate family. These look great and I feel very confident making them.

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Marissa GF December 8, 2011 - 5:33 pm

Wow, these look amazing! Beautiful too!
We are simplifying by not decorating or getting a tree. Less waste and less time eaten up – we rather want to spend the time with family and loved ones!

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Laurie December 8, 2011 - 5:48 pm

Oooh! Those look amazing and I just bought a pomegranate this week. Perfect!
I'm with you on simplifying Christmas. I just want a silent night, a Christmas tree and my family…and baking…and skiing…and friends…see how easy it is to go from simple to overkill.

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Aly December 8, 2011 - 6:08 pm

We are simplifying the holidays by assigning everyone to a specific dish to bring to the holiday party so it's less preparation for all of us

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Aly December 8, 2011 - 6:09 pm

I also stumbled this!

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Christa December 8, 2011 - 6:15 pm

Shared on Facebook.

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Maureen December 8, 2011 - 6:19 pm

This sounds so delish….cannot wait to make & try this treat with my kids!

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Robin MB December 8, 2011 - 6:19 pm

We are not buying gifts this year! Our gifts are taken care of… a new TV and a new puppy. We plan to share the day with his Mom & Dad enjoying a simple GF meal that I prepare. It will be so nice to not have a big bustling day. I can't wait. Stress free and easy!

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Lauren December 8, 2011 - 6:20 pm

I shared this page and giveaway on Twitter.

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Laura December 8, 2011 - 6:22 pm

I'm making my holiday simple by spending it at home with my family.

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Lauren December 8, 2011 - 6:22 pm

Since either my fiance's family or my side of the family host the various holidays, our holidays are already pretty simple. 🙂

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Karen December 8, 2011 - 6:22 pm

I made fruit butters (apple, fig, pear, cherry) and am giving those as Christmas gifts this year. That makes it so much simpler. The gifts are made. All that is left is delivery…. Really has helped me shift gears as I'm not worried about picking up last minute gifts…

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Laura December 8, 2011 - 6:22 pm

Shared on FB 🙂

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Cynthia December 8, 2011 - 6:24 pm

Love these beautiful little treats and plan to take them to 2 upcoming events… thanks! We are simplifying drastically here since there will likely be just the two of us for the actual Christmas event… I'm not totally unpacking and putting up all the decorations this year, small tree, and more emphasis on celebrating with our Church family and 'guests' who come out to our Annual Church Christmas Dinner, mostly the homeless folks from across the street from the Church. they have become the focus of our outreach in the past couple of years and many have begun to make our Church "home" which is lovely. Merry Christmas to you!

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Janet December 8, 2011 - 6:38 pm

The holidays are pretty simple for me already. All my family lives half a continent away so I don't generally get to spend time with them. This year, my next door neighbor and I will be having Christmas dinner together. She's making lamb. We also spent Thanksgiving together. Seems silly for two single women with no family nearby to spend the holidays alone. I don't even do much (if any) decorating. With four cats who think decorations are just fancy cat toys, I decided it wasn't worth the hassle of trying to cat-proof them. This year I bought a "kissing ball" (kind of like a wreath but in a ball shape) and hung it in the front hallway well out of reach of any kitteny claws.

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sarah December 8, 2011 - 6:41 pm

these look so good. i found you through the spunky coconut and am loving all the fresh ideas. we are a family of six going on 7 and all are gluten free…
i will have to make these with the kids later today!

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shannon December 8, 2011 - 6:41 pm

This year we are spending time everyday doing something holiday crafts, holiday decoration, baking, visiting family and friends, seeing the lights drinking hot cocoa. This year is all about the little joys of the holiday and a lot less about gifts

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Ash December 8, 2011 - 6:46 pm

These look soo yummy! I will have to make them! ~after I buy a muffin pan lol

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Robert Masters December 8, 2011 - 6:58 pm

Great looking recipe… about to head outside and pick a pomegranate to make up a batch. Cheers. Recipe also shared on Facebook 🙂

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Yvette December 8, 2011 - 7:13 pm

Oh my word! I love chocolate poms! This is perfect!

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Yvette December 8, 2011 - 7:14 pm

Shared this post on Facebook.

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Kelli December 8, 2011 - 7:15 pm

We are simplifying by staying home this Christmas! It's wonderful.

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Kelli December 8, 2011 - 7:16 pm

shared on Facebook!

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Catybakes December 8, 2011 - 7:22 pm

We are going to stay close to home, cook a simple holiday meal and play board games like there is no tomorrow!

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Laurel December 8, 2011 - 7:48 pm

Simplify? Holiday. Simplify. Nope. Does not compute. Error. Error. 'Sides I've gotta go find some Pomegranates because I've never seen a more festive treat. 🙂

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Nicole Hanse December 8, 2011 - 7:51 pm

Love waking up to see if I get a new post from your site everyday!! 🙂 Cannot wait to make the newest treat you shared (choc/pomogranite). What a great treat for the whole family. Thanks for all that you do to share your little treasures and finds :).
Happy Holidays.
Just shared this on FB.

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Jennifer C December 8, 2011 - 7:51 pm

We're cutting back on the presents this year and just focusing on buying for the kids. Not only does this help the budget and reduce the to do list, it simplifies by cutting down on the amount of "stuff" in our house. Thanks!

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Melissa C. December 8, 2011 - 7:55 pm

What a beautiful presentation! I will definitely try to make these. Thanks for sharing this recipe!

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Larisa December 8, 2011 - 8:00 pm

Simplifying the holidays by choosing not to travel, enjoying stress-free evenings at home with our two boys, and donating to family members' favorite causes/charities in lieu of buying more stuff.

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Larisa December 8, 2011 - 8:05 pm

Shared the post on Twitter, @littleredplane

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AmandaonMaui December 8, 2011 - 8:15 pm

Instead of doing a dinner party, I'm hosting a party with hors d'oeuvres instead. Simplify!

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Jessica December 8, 2011 - 8:15 pm

Shared it on Facebook!

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AmandaonMaui December 8, 2011 - 8:16 pm

Posted on Facebook.

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AmandaonMaui December 8, 2011 - 8:17 pm

I tweeted. @gfreemaui

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Jessica December 8, 2011 - 8:19 pm

Our little tree produced one pomegranate and now I know what I'm going to do with it! My goal this year was to be less busy and more contemplative, but I haven't been very successful. I just keep saying yes, but after the 16th our family is officially shutting down and just spending time with each other and close family members. No events, plays, or parties.

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AManda December 8, 2011 - 8:30 pm

No simplifying going on here! It's my first year in grad school in another state (I'll be taking my 9 hour drive home in a couple of weeks), and my twin sister is off in Japan, so we've already mailed our box of presents to her and plan to meet over Skype. So not nearly as simple as past years, but it should be a wonderful time!

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Amy R December 8, 2011 - 8:30 pm

Just found this site, excited to try some of the recipes!

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Kimberlee December 8, 2011 - 8:31 pm

We are not simplifying or making the holidays more crazy. We are doing the same old thing, which we love, again this year. Family, food and fun. Thank you for a great giveaway. I would adore owning any of these books. Cooking is something I enjoy, but at which I do not excel. Again, thank you!

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Donna Strickler December 8, 2011 - 8:45 pm

We are in the process of moving, so our Christmas celebrations will not be as "big" as usual, but we will be just as busy! I can't wait to try this recipe – I've never had pomegranates! Happy Holidays to you and your family!

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Anne December 8, 2011 - 8:56 pm

This year I am not stressing over the holidays from decorating to baking to shopping. Trying to just enjoy the season with my kids instead and make family memories. Christmas cards will be sent electronically this year.

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Tsayre December 8, 2011 - 8:58 pm

Facebook :0)

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Cindy December 8, 2011 - 9:16 pm

I keep things simple for the holidays by spreading out the work and cooking.

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KarenO December 8, 2011 - 9:23 pm

I shared this post with my friends on facebook!

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KarenO December 8, 2011 - 9:25 pm

No holiday plans! What could be more simple than that?

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Josie December 8, 2011 - 9:30 pm

We have staged a Christmas Revolution this year and are refusing to travel to anyone's home on the 24th through 26th of December. Instead, we are "simplifying" the holidays by having everyone (22 people!) over to our house for Christmas dinner!

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Deb December 8, 2011 - 9:39 pm

What a great way to use pomegranates, thank you! I am going to try to simplify our Christmas by having our Open House on the 23rd instead of the 25th.

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Julia December 8, 2011 - 9:40 pm

This year I am trying to make as many items as possible (including edible gifts).

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Julia December 8, 2011 - 9:41 pm

Posted on Facebook

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Jen December 8, 2011 - 10:13 pm

My husband and I are simplifying by simply staying at home and relaxing by ourselves.

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Charlotte December 8, 2011 - 10:13 pm

I love how the chocolate pomegranate clusters are GF and Vegan!!!! I double hooray in my book! Keep up the great ideas and recipes:)

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Jen December 8, 2011 - 10:15 pm

Shared on Facebook

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Daisy December 8, 2011 - 10:54 pm

These look delicious! We have a few pomegranates we haven't opened yet, and at least one will be used to make these! I opened this link after someone shared on fb – just for the recipe (had no idea there was a giveaway! How cool!) 🙂

We are simplifying by not trying to make all kinds of baked goodies for friends/family/teachers, like we usually do. We'll do something else for teachers that is simple and easy. Now that we're gluten-free, that's one more reason to not mess with it all (I don't want to be making a bunch of things I can't eat to give away right now – not b/c I don't care about others having it but I don't want to buy a lot of ingredients that we can't use after the treats are made), but it's also just stressful, so it's out of the equation! 🙂

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Daisy December 8, 2011 - 10:58 pm

Shared on facebook on my personal page (https://www.facebook.com/daisyraine.adkins) and my blog fan page (https://www.facebook.com/ourgrowingfam). Can't wait to make these!!!

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Daisy December 8, 2011 - 11:03 pm

Shared on twitter! 🙂 @ourgrowingfam

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Suzanne December 8, 2011 - 11:24 pm

I'll be simplifying by making these clusters. I've made them in the past by pouring the arils into the melted chocolate & then scooping clusters out with a fork, however yours are much prettier & simpler.

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Pogonia December 8, 2011 - 11:24 pm

I don't know if you will count this or not. I don't take part in the holidays—but I do SO APPRECIATE all these wonderful blogs that help me simplify and live life to the fullest.

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Dan December 8, 2011 - 11:59 pm

my holidays start on the 10th with a simple dinner for 6: beef braciole, whipped root vegetables, zucchini crudo, and a warm spinach and mushroom salad.

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Chrystal in Canada December 9, 2011 - 12:10 am

This year, I am really not into the tree/santa/anything commercial. I'm learning about Hanukkah and trying to incorporate that into this season. I just started a new job as well, so trying to stay afloat while suddenly working all day — you know how that is 🙂 But I still find time to check out this holiday recipe club and enter the contests!

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Gail December 9, 2011 - 12:57 am

Shared this awesome recipe and giveaways on Facebook.

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Jodi Castallo December 9, 2011 - 1:18 am

I am simplifing by not making a ton of cookies, every year I did this to almost the point of exhaustion. This year just making a few favorites, since going gluten, dairy, and egg free. Love the pomegrant clusters.

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Cheryl December 9, 2011 - 2:06 am

Another great recipe!! Thanks for sharing with us!

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bitt December 9, 2011 - 2:38 am

I am simplifying the holidays by not decorating at all at my house and just enjoying the decorations around the nieghborhood and in town.

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Laura December 9, 2011 - 2:42 am

We have a hard time simplifying the holidays. We have so many different traditions with the different families that we always try to do it all. But, we make sure to have time Christmas morning just for us relaxing and enjoying each other's company. And we always enjoy seeing all our family!

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Theresa December 9, 2011 - 2:42 am

Thanks for the delicious idea.
We will be staying close to home for Christmas this year.
I won't be having the crowd at my house either.
Thanks for included my name for the drawing.

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Laura December 9, 2011 - 2:43 am

Shared on fb!

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Andrew December 9, 2011 - 2:46 am

We're simplifying the holidays this year by spending less on and being more thoughtful with our gifts.

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Andrew December 9, 2011 - 2:50 am

Shared on facebook.

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Anna December 9, 2011 - 3:05 am

Baking way less cookies this year! I usually do about 2500 to give away, this year maybe 2 or 3 hundred instead! This looks yummy!

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dee December 9, 2011 - 3:53 am

We try to live and do simple.. a couple years ago our grown daughters decided it would be fun to change things up a bit for Christmas. Instead of buying gifts, why not either repurpose or make our gifts. Really gets the creative juices flowing!
Last year everyone got so creative, from painted pictures to canned goodies from each of our gardens… this year I am making homemade vanilla, aprons, fabric grocery bags, etc. We recently had a small barn blow over from a storm, so each will receive a barnwood mirror. We have found getting ready for our Christmas' now to be stressfree. It brings many memories back to my husband and I, of our childhoods when we'd receive a homemade sling shot or mittens gramma knitted.

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Joella C. December 9, 2011 - 4:17 am

Thanks for such an original idea. I never would have put pomegranates and chocolate together like this, and they are so pretty and festive looking.

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Angie@BiPolarPaleo December 9, 2011 - 6:25 am

These treats are gorgeous. My family and I love pomegranates… and have one sitting in the fridge. I just hope it's still there when I return from a business trip tomorrow!

We travel outside AK each Christmas to visit family in the lower 48. Holiday travel is not simple. But we make the best of it by flying Christmas day when everyone is less stressed and in a jolly mood! The kids put on crazy red and green outfits and we have fun. Once we arrive, we spend our holiday visiting with loved ones and in complete relaxation mode.

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dee December 9, 2011 - 7:20 am

These look fabulous. I have several pomegrante's in my refrigerator, I try to eat them often for all the great nutrional value. (I was struck by lightning a few years ago, my immune system got zapped!) To combine chocolate with pomegrante will definitely make my mouth explode in awesomeness! Thank you, thank you. 🙂

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Venessa December 9, 2011 - 7:34 am

I'm simplifying by shopping more online when there are sales & free shipping, avoiding the long lines at stores & traffic. 🙂

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Marykay December 9, 2011 - 8:18 am

Well, I don't think that I am simplifying anything by doing this, but I decided to make the majority of our gifts this year including a couple biggies for my kids. Saving money? check. Less consumerism? check. Simple? nope 🙂

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Marykay December 9, 2011 - 8:22 am

I FaceBooked the giveaway too 🙂

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Shelly R December 9, 2011 - 9:20 am

We are simplifying Christmas this by simply remembering just what Christmas is about. Not being caught up in presents and activities and food. Being simple all around.

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Shelly R December 9, 2011 - 9:33 am

I shared on FB!

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Shelly R December 9, 2011 - 9:42 am

I tweeted!

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Liliane allen December 9, 2011 - 1:37 pm

We have four kids and I long to make this Christmas more about what is really is about. Less Christmas clutter and more Christ. The kids are enjoying it.

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Stephanie Moschel December 9, 2011 - 1:46 pm

This is my kind of recipe! New, beautiful, two ingredients, and safe for my family!!! And I bet they taste great too. Can't wait to add this to our Christmas treats this year. Thank you! We are simplifying our Christmas by not doing gifts for each other in our family this year, but helping as many as we can who are in need of help. A GREAT way to spend Christmas!!

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Connie December 9, 2011 - 2:28 pm

I shared on FB!

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Michelle Crooker December 9, 2011 - 3:54 pm

Very interesting! Never knew what to do with pomegranates. Will have to make this.

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Janis December 9, 2011 - 3:59 pm

I always keep holidays as simple as possible. One good way to do this is to bake ahead of time and freeze your goodies. then you can concentrate on cooking dinner for your family when the holiday comes around.

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Janis December 9, 2011 - 4:24 pm

I shared this on facebook.

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Angie@BiPolarPaleo December 9, 2011 - 4:24 pm

Posted to Facebook

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Angie@BiPolarPaleo December 9, 2011 - 4:27 pm

Posted to Twitter

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susan ohneiser December 9, 2011 - 5:19 pm

I'm cutting back on the sweets and treats this year. Less baking, less eating, less treadmill!!

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Katy December 9, 2011 - 8:04 pm

We're "simplifying" our holiday decorating this year! Instead of digging through a decade worth of ornaments, we're letting everything stay boxed up. The tree will be hung in Air Force blue, in honor of Kvothe's first Christmas away from home.

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Jessy December 9, 2011 - 8:20 pm

I'll be simplifying this year's holidays by not stressing about gifts! They will be either homemade or simple gifts.

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helga December 9, 2011 - 8:48 pm

we are moving over Christmas….no tree, no decorations…..just packing. too much fun!

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Holly December 9, 2011 - 8:50 pm

We will be buying fewer gifts and baking fewer treats.

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Patti Krueger December 9, 2011 - 9:01 pm

Love your website. I shared it on facebook.

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Cristin December 9, 2011 - 9:38 pm

I am simplifying by focusing on people rather than things this Christmas.

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Reagan December 9, 2011 - 11:39 pm

Anyone wanting to simplify should read the book Unplugging the Christmas Machine. I'm not trying to add something else to our list right now, maybe read it next October. It's a great motivator to go back to the basics. We have simplified by having all the cousins swap names (we have 11 on one side and 8 on the other side!), skipping adult sibling presents, and by making a computerized list of all of my card recipients (about 150). This way I can just print out all of the addresses each year. I've also decided to just put out our very favorite decorations. I'm guessing this will make the after-Christmas chore of putting it all back up much more enjoyable!
Merry Christmas to all!

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Joy December 10, 2011 - 1:42 am

We still need to decide how to simplify this year's Christmas. We may end up hosting Christmas brunch, so we only have 1 place to travel later Christmas Day. I'm planning on wowing the doubtful fam with allergen-free delights. 🙂 We are blessed to have both families in town!

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Rachel December 10, 2011 - 2:13 am

I'm trying to bake less cookies this year and then get stuck with less by giving them away.

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Rachel December 10, 2011 - 2:16 am

I just tweeted this!

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Diane December 10, 2011 - 3:01 am

We simplify by focusing on the light of the season: how can we bring more light into the world as a result of our actions? Helps keep the focus on giving and being grateful for what we receive.

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tanya December 10, 2011 - 4:30 am

we are simplifying the holidays by staying home, spending time with our family and enjoying the many blessing our Lord has given us

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Ellen December 10, 2011 - 5:53 am

I wish I wasn't simplifying the holidays this year, but some health issues have forced me to. I'll be eating a strict meat and vegetable diet through the end of the year, so there will be no extravagant baking for me this year 🙁 I will certainly miss it.

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robyn m. December 10, 2011 - 7:00 am

well no long travel this year (last few years it was 1500 miles both ways…) and we're cutting out a lot of the running around! this year were DIY-ing most of our gifts too..kiddos are loving it!

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robyn m. December 10, 2011 - 7:02 am Reply
Antoinette December 10, 2011 - 3:20 pm

These are so easy. A perfect simple hostess gift when I'm going to all of my holiday parties. Thank you!!!

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Jan December 10, 2011 - 3:24 pm

I always wondered if there was another way to get the seeds out of pomegranates. My kids love them too. But we section them and the pick them out – very tedious! I'm going to try soaking them like you showed.

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Pat J December 10, 2011 - 3:56 pm

Having all the family together for Christmas to celebrate Christ's birth is the best Christmas of all.

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kirsten December 10, 2011 - 4:18 pm

WOW! those look REALLY REALLY good!!! I love pomegranate….and chocolate.

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Sarah M December 10, 2011 - 4:27 pm

This will be our first gluten-free, dairy-free Christmas, but after our Thanksgiving I want to simplify by creating a menu that keeps us from cooking all day long! Either make more stuff the day before or just recipes that don't require standing over the stove all day. 🙂 Thank you for sharing your recipe!

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Sarah M December 10, 2011 - 4:32 pm

Shared to facebook 🙂

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domestic diva December 10, 2011 - 8:02 pm

We're simplifying by making homemade gifts instead of buying things.

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Michelle December 10, 2011 - 8:35 pm

These look wonderful! Now I know what to do with the pomegranates in my CSA box I got today! Thank you!

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Megan December 10, 2011 - 9:29 pm

The pictures look incredible!
I love chocolate covered pomegranate seeds!

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Lisa @ Allergy Free Vintage Cookery December 12, 2011 - 2:27 am

Hi Lexie! Just wanted to let you know I included your clusters in my post "Allergy Friendly Holiday Cocktail Party" today. They look delicious!

http://allergyfreecookery.blogspot.com/2011/12/allergy-friendly-virtual-holiday.html

Thanks!
Lisa @ Allergy Free Vintage Cookery

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Micki December 15, 2011 - 6:35 pm

I will be making these for neighbors and teachers this year!

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Micki December 15, 2011 - 6:37 pm

You have a new FB follower!

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Jill December 16, 2011 - 2:14 am

Chocolate and fruit is always a winning combination, but the red colour also makes it festive! A must-try for Christmas!

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Jill December 16, 2011 - 2:21 am

I have shared your post on Twitter.

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Jill December 16, 2011 - 2:24 am

I have also shared this post on my Facebook!

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Shaina December 16, 2011 - 2:45 am

This looks like it would be a great addition to our already pretty simple holidays. This year we are going to focus less on presents and commercialism and more on family and good times!

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CeCe December 19, 2011 - 4:39 pm

Yes to this recipe! So festive looking, my three littles will love to help me with these this week. Thank you! I'm excited to explore your blog. 🙂

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Anna1982 November 12, 2012 - 2:54 pm

Thank you soo much for this recipe! My 7 year old daugther always looks forward to the time we can buy them at the store. She will love this and I just happen to buy 3 from the store the other day!

Anna1982

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Lexie November 12, 2012 - 5:34 pm

Anna, my kids LOVE them, too. I think this will be my winter food project at the kids school … easy and top 8 allergen free!! : ) xoLexie

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Vicky November 22, 2012 - 8:55 pm

This is such a simple yet wonderful recipe! I'm going to enjoy making these for family at Christmas!

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Deborah Braconnier December 2, 2012 - 6:58 pm

These look great and we are going to try them today with both semi-sweet and white chocolate. My questions is, given that these have fresh fruit in them, how long do they last and should they be kept in the fridge?

I always make baked good and treats for gifts every holiday. To me, it always means more to give something that you made with your heart. Would love to add these to our little gift boxes.

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Lexie December 4, 2012 - 4:43 pm

Deborah … definitely store them refrigerated. But they can stand out at room temp for half a day with no problem : ) I would eat them up within 3-5 days. xoLexie

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Marissa - Hip & Healthy Kids December 21, 2012 - 4:45 am

Love these! We don't use the microwave, so I melted the chocolate on the stovetop. After I ran out of cupcake liners, I stirred in the remaining pomegranate seeds in the pot with the chocolate and sampled. Delicious! Imagine you could do that for the whole batch too.
Thanks for the great recipe.

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Marissa - Hip & Healthy Kids December 21, 2012 - 4:45 am

Love these! We don't use the microwave, so I melted the chocolate on the stovetop. After I ran out of cupcake liners, I stirred in the remaining pomegranate seeds in the pot with the chocolate and sampled. Delicious! Imagine you could do that for the whole batch too.
Thanks for the great recipe.

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Marissa - Hip & Healthy Kids December 21, 2012 - 4:45 am

Love these! We don't use the microwave, so I melted the chocolate on the stovetop. After I ran out of cupcake liners, I stirred in the remaining pomegranate seeds in the pot with the chocolate and sampled. Delicious! Imagine you could do that for the whole batch too.
Thanks for the great recipe.

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Marissa - Hip & Healthy Kids December 21, 2012 - 4:45 am

Love these! We don't use the microwave, so I melted the chocolate on the stovetop. After I ran out of cupcake liners, I stirred in the remaining pomegranate seeds in the pot with the chocolate and sampled. Delicious! Imagine you could do that for the whole batch too.
Thanks for the great recipe.

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Marissa - Hip & Healthy Kids December 21, 2012 - 4:45 am

Love these! We don't use the microwave, so I melted the chocolate on the stovetop. After I ran out of cupcake liners, I stirred in the remaining pomegranate seeds in the pot with the chocolate and sampled. Delicious! Imagine you could do that for the whole batch too.
Thanks for the great recipe.

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Marissa - Hip & Healthy Kids December 21, 2012 - 4:45 am

Love these! We don't use the microwave, so I melted the chocolate on the stovetop. After I ran out of cupcake liners, I stirred in the remaining pomegranate seeds in the pot with the chocolate and sampled. Delicious! Imagine you could do that for the whole batch too.
Thanks for the great recipe.

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Marissa - Hip & Healthy Kids December 21, 2012 - 4:45 am

Love these! We don't use the microwave, so I melted the chocolate on the stovetop. After I ran out of cupcake liners, I stirred in the remaining pomegranate seeds in the pot with the chocolate and sampled. Delicious! Imagine you could do that for the whole batch too.
Thanks for the great recipe.

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Marissa - Hip & Healthy Kids December 21, 2012 - 4:45 am

Love these! We don't use the microwave, so I melted the chocolate on the stovetop. After I ran out of cupcake liners, I stirred in the remaining pomegranate seeds in the pot with the chocolate and sampled. Delicious! Imagine you could do that for the whole batch too.
Thanks for the great recipe.

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Marissa - Hip & Healthy Kids December 21, 2012 - 4:45 am

Love these! We don't use the microwave, so I melted the chocolate on the stovetop. After I ran out of cupcake liners, I stirred in the remaining pomegranate seeds in the pot with the chocolate and sampled. Delicious! Imagine you could do that for the whole batch too.
Thanks for the great recipe.

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Marissa - Hip & Healthy Kids December 21, 2012 - 4:45 am

Love these! We don't use the microwave, so I melted the chocolate on the stovetop. After I ran out of cupcake liners, I stirred in the remaining pomegranate seeds in the pot with the chocolate and sampled. Delicious! Imagine you could do that for the whole batch too.
Thanks for the great recipe.

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Marissa - Hip & Healthy Kids December 21, 2012 - 4:45 am

Love these! We don't use the microwave, so I melted the chocolate on the stovetop. After I ran out of cupcake liners, I stirred in the remaining pomegranate seeds in the pot with the chocolate and sampled. Delicious! Imagine you could do that for the whole batch too.
Thanks for the great recipe.

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Seitan January 3, 2013 - 10:47 am

This looks absolutely wonderful but the best part of this recipe is this wonderful trick to peel the fruit under water. Yeah, this just made my day!

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Vira November 8, 2013 - 5:54 am

Yummy.I will Try For sure.Very nice info using pomegranate

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tami November 29, 2013 - 12:24 am

Hi, love this recipe 🙂
Want to make these for a holiday party, how far in advance is it ok to make them, and what is the best way too store them to keep them fresh until the eve of….?
Thx 🙂

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Lexie November 29, 2013 - 1:47 am

Hi Tami,

So I think a day or two ahead would be fine. Just store in an airtight container in the fridge. Happy Thanksgiving and I am so glad you like these!

xoLexie

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Chris December 10, 2013 - 4:47 pm

Hi there! Just wanted to let you know I’ve compiled a recipe round-up of Healthy Party Sweet Treats on my blog today and I’ve included your recipe! Come and take a look! http://www.inspiralcoaching.com/2013/12/healthy-sweet-treats-party-food-recipe.html. Thanks for a sharing great recipe!

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Lulu December 14, 2013 - 2:41 pm

The EASIEST way to remove the seeds from the pomegranate is to slice it in half horizontally, hold the cut side down over a bowl and whack at it with a wooden spoon until all the little jewels fall out … Just keep turning the pom until the seeds have all been dislodged. It takes a few minutes and there's nothing to it!

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Lexie December 15, 2013 - 10:40 pm

Hey Lulu,

Thanks for that great tip. I will try it. I remember just seeing a chef on one of the cooking shows do it your way, and I was so intrigued 🙂

xoLexie

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Bec Boyle December 15, 2015 - 4:22 am

I’ve never used or had pomegranate before and didn’t realise there are seed within the seeds.. So is there any way of removing those hard seeds so that I can make these clusters and enjoy them without having the worry of biting in to a seed and possibly hurting myself, or anyone else who is going to enjoy them?
I generally don’t eat things with seeds in, even passion fruit.

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Lexie December 16, 2015 - 4:47 pm

Hi Bec, it’s the nature of the fruit 🙂 I think the only way you can enjoy pomegranates without the seed is juiced. xoLexie

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10 Easy Chocolate Recipes that are Dairy Free | Gluten Free Paleo Recipe February 9, 2017 - 2:45 pm

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