Indulge Guilt-Free with the Healthiest Chocolate Snacks: See Delicious and Nutritious Recipes

Are you a chocolate lover who craves a guilt-free indulgence? Look no further, because we’ve got the perfect treats for you! Introducing the healthiest chocolate snacks that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also nourish your body. Made with the finest ingredients and packed with essential nutrients, these delicious snacks can be a guilt-free choice that you won’t be able to resist.

Health Benefits of Raw Cacao (the OG Chocolate)

To eat the healthiest version of chocolate, choose raw cacao. Not only is it chocolate, but it is a superfood! So, it tastes good and it’s good for you! It is more expensive than baking or Dutch-processed cocoa, but raw cacao has many more health benefits. Here is why raw cacao is so awesome:

• Unprocessed (raw) cacao has 40 times more antioxidants than blueberries. Antioxidants remove free-radicals and toxins from the body to reduce tissue damage and minimize the risk of cancer growth and other diseases.
• It is packed with magnesium, which is necessary for bone, heart, and brain health.
• Cacao has tons of iron to help blood carry oxygen to cells. Without adequate iron levels, you will feel sluggish and have low energy.
• It has high amounts of calcium to maintain strong bones and proper nerve and muscle function.
• Cacao makes you happy! Raw cacao provides neurotransmitters, like serotonin and tryptophan, that are associated with blissful feelings and comfort. This can help alleviate depression. So it makes perfect sense that we turn to chocolate when we are sad! 

When it comes to sweetened chocolate, the good does not outweigh the bad. So what can you do to curb the cravings without disturbing your health? Here are healthy and simple ways to get your chocolate fix using the superfood raw cacao:

Simply Awesome, Healthy Chocolate Snack Ideas and Recipes

1. Chocolate Oatmeal Power-up

• Prep time: less than 1 minute
• Ingredients: 1

Add a teaspoon or two of cacao powder to your oatmeal. Oats are known to be super healthy, thanks to their fiber, vitamins and minerals. The goodies in oats help to improve digestion, lower bad cholesterol, and oats provide nearly 20% of the recommended daily iron intake. Adding in raw cacao powder will add antioxidants, magnesium, and even more iron. For the healthiest version, add cacao to plain oatmeal and sweeten with dried fruit, like dates, or pure maple syrup. Packaged sweetened oats have other preservatives and ingredients that are not healthy, so using plain oatmeal is the best option. But if you’re just not feeling up to plain oats, then packaged oatmeal is still better than a chocolate candy bar.

2. Homemade Hot Chocolate

• Prep time: less than 7 minutes
• Ingredients: 6 or more

A cozy cup of hot chocolate can really cheer you up and knock out chocolate cravings. The packaged hot chocolates often contain unhealthy added ingredients. Making your own hot chocolate is easier than you may think and it always delicious. For a low-calorie hot chocolate, swap out dairy milk for unsweetened almond milk, which has only 30 calories per cup. Here is a simple decadent hot chocolate recipe to warm you up and put a smile on your face:

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup almond milk
• 1/3 cup coconut milk
• 1-2 TBSP raw cacao powder
• 1-2 TBSP maple syrup, or other sweetener
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: 1/4 tsp vanilla extract, sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice

Directions:

Whisk all ingredients except vanilla and cinnamon in a microwave at 30 second intervals until hot and the powder dissolves. Stir in the vanilla and sprinkle on the cinnamon before serving.

Tip: Turn this healthy hot chocolate into a healthy mocha, simply by adding in black coffee!

3. Chocolate “Milkshake”

• Prep time: less than 10 minutes
• Ingredients: 5 or more

Thick, creamy, and decadent chocolate milkshakes are always superstars when it comes to satisfying a chocolate craving. But they can be super unhealthy too. Luckily, there is a way to make a healthy low-fat chocolate milkshake that you won’t believe is really healthy. Try out this healthy chocolate milkshake recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups frozen bananas (peel and break into pieces before freezing)
• 1 1/2 cups almond milk
• 2 TBSP hemp seeds
• 1 TBSP cacao powder
• 1/2 cup oats
• 1-2 pitted dates (optional)
• Optional (but amazing): 1-2 TBSP peanut or almond butter

Directions:

Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until super smooth. Enjoy!

4. Raw Brownie Balls

• Prep time: less than 15 minutes
• Ingredients: 9 or more

No-bake brownies will ensure that all the nutrients from the cacao powder and other ingredients are maintained. These raw brownies balls are rich, chocolaty, and sure to satisfy a chocolate craving. The other ingredients in this blissful ball of deliciousness add healthy fats, fiber, and an abundance of vitamins and minerals. Try out this healthy brownie ball the next time you need to treat yourself:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pitted dates (the softer and gooyer the better. If they are hard, soak them in warm water)
• 1 cup walnuts
• 1/2 cup hemp seeds
• 1/2 cup almonds
• 1/4 cup raw cacao powder
• 1/4 cup flaxmeal
• 1/2 tap vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut, oats, or almond flour for rolling

Directions:

Blend all ingredients, except the coconut for rolling, in a blender or food processor until well combined and sticky. You may need to wipe down the sides a few times to get everything blended together. Then, roll the mixture into 1 to 2-inch balls. Roll the balls through shredded coconut, oats, or almond flour until well coated. This coating is optional, but it will prevent the balls from sticking together and making a mess on your hands when eating. 

These healthy brownie balls are full of healthy fats, like omega-3, thanks to the nuts and seeds in this snack recipe. The nuts and seeds also add protein, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to the mix. Flaxmeal (ground flaxseed) helps to lower blood pressure and provides the perfect balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fats. Having too much omega-6 fats in the diet can cause inflammation. However, having higher levels of omega-3 than omega-6 can reduce inflammation in the body.

5. Black Bean Avocado Brownies

• Prep time: less than 60 minutes
• Ingredients: 9

If you are in the mood a hot baked brownie, try a black bean and avocado brownie. It may sound crazy… beans and avocado in a brownie? Trust me. It is amazing and you won’t even know you’re eating a “treat” that is full of fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. And besides, how do you know, if you haven’t tried it yet? Next time you’re in the mood for a brownie, try this recipe:

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 2 flax eggs (2 TBSP flaxmeal + 6 TBSP water, let sit for 10 minutes)
• 1 small avocado, skin and seed removed
• 1 TBSP apple cider vinegar (substitute: lemon juice or white vinegar)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Dry ingredients:

• 2/3 cup coconut sugar
• 2/3 cup raw cacao powder
• 1 TBSP baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp sea salt

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly oil an 8×8 inch baking pan (Tip: use silicone baking pans or baking paper to avoid oil).
2. Blend wet ingredients in a food processor until well combined. Add in the dry ingredients and blend until a smooth batter forms. The batter will be thick. However, if it is too thick to blend, add a tablespoon of water to help it along.
3. Spoon the batter into the pan. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick or knife comes out mostly clean. Let cool for at least 20 minutes. Enjoy!

Black beans are loaded with filling fiber, iron, and B-vitamins. This will help keep your energy levels up and steady so you can do what you need to do. Avocado in this healthy snack recipe adds more fiber, as well as potassium to help control blood pressure, and vitamin E to improve skin health.

6. Raw Cacao Syrup Drizzle

• Prep time: less than 2 minutes
• Ingredients: 2

Don’t have time to bake brownies? Do you have time to stir something really quick? Making your own chocolate syrup is easy. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon raw cacao powder with 2 tablespoon maple syrup. Whisk until the powder finally dissolves into the syrup. It will take a couple minutes, but it will be oh-so worth it.

Drizzle your new found love over a banana with some nut butter. Or over berries, pancakes, popcorn, or anything else you want to add chocolate to. Adding this syrup to fruit, over oatmeal, or granola will provide additional health benefits due to fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Fiber helps slow digestion of sugars, so you won’t get a sugar rush from the maple syrup and will have sustained energy instead.

7. Sprinkle on Nut Butter Toast

• Prep time: less than 1 minute
• Ingredients: 1

If you are feeling lazy and would like to put as little effort into food preparation as possible, you can still use raw cacao powder to your advantage. Make some toast, spread on a bit of nut butter, and sprinkle with raw cacao powder and a touch of cinnamon. This toast may become your new best friend.

For a super healthy chocolaty toast, use whole grain bread and a nut butter without added oils or sugar. The only ingredients in a healthy nut butter are the nut (or seed), and maybe some salt. Cinnamon is a superfood too, with lots of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and the ability to help stabilize blood sugar levels.

8. Cacao Nibs

If you want a quick chocolaty snack that you can eat on the go, try cacao nibs. These crunchy snacks are little bits of raw cacao beans, which is where cacao powder comes from. Cacao nibs can be found in many grocery and health food stores. If you can’t find them in your area, they are widely available online too.

Here are a few ways to eat cacao nibs:

• By themselves, simply pop a few in your mouth and enjoy the crunch.
• Sprinkled on oatmeal or cereal
• Stirred into yogurt or a smoothie
• Mixed into trail mix in place of chocolate chips
• Sprinkled onto toast with nut butter and fruit

9. Chia pudding

• Prep time: less than 30 minutes
• Ingredients: 7

Chia seeds are loaded with healthy omega fats, antioxidants, protein, fiber, iron, and calcium. The fun part about chia seeds is that they make a gel when soaked in liquid. You can take advantage of this phenomenon by using chia to make chocolate pudding! Here is a simple chocolate chia pudding recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup raw cacao powder
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 2-4 TBSP maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups almond or coconut milk
• 1/2 cup chia seeds

When the craving for chocolate ice cream hits, throw a handful or two of frozen banana pieces into a high-speed blender with 1 tablespoon of raw cacao powder and a splash of almond milk. Blend until smooth and creamy. Depending on your blender, you may need to wipe the sides down and mix it up with a spoon a few times to get the smooth texture. Once your bananas look like ice cream, it is ready to eat!

For extra chocolate, drizzle your chocolate banana ice cream with the raw cacao syrup (above).

Directions:

1. Mix the cacao powder, cinnamon, salt, syrup, and vanilla in a bowl until it makes a dough.
2. Whisk in the milk a little at a time until smooth.
3. Add the chia seeds and mix well. Cover and refrigerate overnight (or you can start this in the morning for a healthy chocolate dessert that night).
4. For a tapioca-like pudding, enjoy as is. For a smooth pudding, add the mixture to a high-speed blender and blend until smooth before serving.

10. Healthy Chocolate Banana Ice Cream

• Prep time: less than 5 minutes
• Ingredients: 3 or more

A classic chocolate dessert is chocolate ice cream, of course. But ice cream is loaded with sugar, fat, and will ruin your healthy progress. Lucky for you, there is a way to make rich chocolate ice cream that is super low fat, and super chocolaty. The trick is to always have frozen bananas in the freezer. When your bananas start to brown, peel them, break into 1-inch pieces, and freeze them in an air-tight container.

This simple homemade ice cream is healthy because it is low in fat and high in potassium. According to NutritionFacts.org, less than 2% of Americans get the amount of potassium they need each day, which is 4,700 mg. That means most people do not eat enough potassium! Getting adequate potassium lowers blood pressure, contributes to kidney health, aids in metabolism, and improves muscle strength and endurance. You can also make this healthy ice cream into other flavors too – add in peanut butter, fruit, or leave it banana-flavored! (Then drizzle with raw cacao syrup, of course).

More on Healthy Chocolate Snacks

Understanding the ingredients in chocolate snacks

When it comes to choosing a healthy chocolate snack, understanding the ingredients is key. Many commercially available chocolate snacks contain artificial sweeteners, hydrogenated oils, and other additives that can have a negative impact on your health.

Instead, look for snacks that use natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. These options provide a more balanced sweetness without the harmful effects of refined sugars. Additionally, opt for snacks that use healthy fats like coconut oil or almond butter, which provide a satisfying texture and additional nutrients.

It’s also important to be mindful of potential allergens or intolerances when selecting a chocolate snack. Some snacks may contain common allergens like nuts or dairy, so be sure to read the ingredient list carefully to ensure it aligns with your dietary needs.

The healthiest chocolate snack options on the market

Fortunately, there are several healthy chocolate snack options available on the market today. These snacks are made with high-quality ingredients and are designed to provide a guilt-free indulgence without compromising on taste.

One popular option is dark chocolate-covered fruits or nuts. These snacks combine the health benefits of dark chocolate with the nutritional goodness of fruits or nuts, creating a delicious and nutritious treat. Whether you prefer chocolate-covered almonds, cherries, or even goji berries, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Another healthy chocolate snack option is raw chocolate bars. These bars are made from minimally processed ingredients and often contain superfoods like cacao nibs, chia seeds, or hemp hearts. They offer a rich and satisfying flavor while providing a dose of antioxidants and nutrients.

If you’re looking for a more decadent option, consider trying chocolate protein bars. These bars are not only delicious but also provide a boost of protein, making them a great post-workout snack or a convenient on-the-go option. Look for bars that are made with clean and natural ingredients and have a balance of macronutrients to keep you satisfied.

How to read food labels and choose the healthiest chocolate snack

When choosing a chocolate snack, it’s important to become familiar with reading food labels. This allows you to understand the nutritional content and make informed decisions about what you’re consuming.

Start by looking at the ingredient list. Ideally, the snack should have a short and simple ingredient list, with recognizable ingredients that you can pronounce. Avoid snacks that contain artificial additives, preservatives, or excessive amounts of sugar.

Next, check the nutritional information. Pay attention to the serving size and the number of calories per serving. Look for snacks that are portion-controlled and provide a reasonable number of calories for a snack. It’s also important to consider the macronutrient breakdown. A healthy chocolate snack should have a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to provide sustained energy and keep you feeling satisfied.

Finally, consider any specific dietary needs or preferences. If you follow a vegan or gluten-free diet, for example, look for snacks that are labeled as such. Additionally, be aware of potential allergens if you have any food sensitivities or allergies.

Delicious and nutritious recipes for homemade chocolate snacks

If you enjoy getting creative in the kitchen, why not try making your own healthy chocolate snacks? Homemade snacks allow you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Plus, it can be a fun and rewarding activity that allows you to experiment with different combinations and textures.

One simple recipe to try is homemade dark chocolate bark. Melt dark chocolate and spread it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Then, sprinkle your favorite toppings such as nuts, dried fruits, or seeds on top. Let it cool and harden, and you’ll have a delicious and customizable chocolate treat.

For a protein-packed option, make your own chocolate protein balls. Combine protein powder, nut butter, oats, and a sweetener of your choice in a bowl. Mix until well combined, then roll into bite-sized balls. Place them in the refrigerator to firm up, and you’ll have a convenient and nutritious snack ready to enjoy.

The best ways to incorporate chocolate snacks into a balanced diet

While chocolate snacks can be a delicious indulgence, it’s important to remember that balance is key. Incorporating them into a balanced diet ensures that you’re nourishing your body while still enjoying your favorite treats.

One approach is to treat chocolate snacks as an occasional treat or dessert. By savoring them mindfully and in moderation, you can fully enjoy the flavors without going overboard. This allows you to satisfy your cravings while still focusing on nutrient-dense foods for the majority of your meals.

Another strategy is to incorporate chocolate snacks into your pre or post-workout routine. The combination of carbohydrates and protein found in many chocolate snacks can provide an energy boost and aid in muscle recovery. Just be sure to choose snacks that are specifically designed for this purpose and have a balanced macronutrient profile.

Finally, consider pairing chocolate snacks with other nutritious foods. For example, enjoy a piece of dark chocolate with a handful of almonds or a piece of fruit. This combination provides a balance of flavors and nutrients, keeping you satisfied and nourished.

Where to find and purchase the healthiest chocolate snacks

Now that you’re armed with knowledge about the healthiest chocolate snacks, you may be wondering where to find them. Fortunately, many health food stores, specialty grocery stores, and online retailers offer a wide variety of options to choose from.

When shopping for chocolate snacks, be sure to check the labels and read reviews to ensure the quality and taste meet your expectations. If you prefer to try before you buy, look for local retailers that offer samples or ask for recommendations from friends or health professionals.

Additionally, many small, independent chocolate makers produce high-quality, artisanal chocolate snacks. These makers often prioritize sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients, resulting in a premium product that you can feel good about supporting.

Conclusion: Enjoying guilt-free indulgence with the healthiest chocolate snack options

Indulging in a delicious chocolate snack doesn’t have to come with guilt. By choosing the healthiest options available, you can satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body with essential nutrients. From dark chocolate-covered fruits and nuts to raw chocolate bars and protein-packed options, there are plenty of choices to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Remember to read food labels, understand the ingredients, and consider your specific preferences when selecting a chocolate snack. Homemade options also provide an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen and tailor the flavors to your liking.

Incorporate chocolate snacks into a balanced diet and enjoy them in moderation. Whether you’re savoring a piece of dark chocolate after dinner or fueling your workouts with a protein bar, these guilt-free indulgences can be a source of joy and satisfaction.

So, go ahead and indulge guilt-free with the healthiest chocolate snack options. Treat yourself to the rich flavors and nutritional goodness, and let the deliciousness take you on a guilt-free journey of pure bliss.