Naturally Sweetened Homemade Chocolate

Raise your hand if you love chocolate.

 

WHOA. THERE’S A LOT OF YOU!

 

Well, I have good news for you. I have chocolate. The dark kind. Sweetened naturally with dates and honey. So you can get excited about having a healthier dessert option any time you want! HURRAY!

 

Here’s the thing: this isn’t a sugar-free shindig, but that’s totally OK. Treats don’t always have to be sugar-free to be healthy, and this is certainly the case here. Local honey and soaked pitted dates add so much flavor, although maple syrup could also be a great sweetening agent. Pure vanilla extract is key to adding sweetness without extra sugar (even the natural kind), too, so you get even more bang for your buck!

 

I have to say, having these little squares around when the sweet tooth hits has been huge for me. A little square served with a cup of decaf in the afternoons is quite the little pick-me-up, which is exactly what I need after a full day before I pick my big boy up from school. Definitely NOT the last time I’ll be making this recipe!

NATURALLY SWEETENED HOMEMADE DARK CHOCOLATE

Makes 16 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 (4 oz) 100% cacao chocolate bar, chopped
• 6 pitted dates, soaked
• 1/8-1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions:

1. In a small saucepan melt the coconut oil over low heat.
2. Add the chocolate and honey and stir to combine.
3. Gently melt the ingredients together, stirring frequently.
4. Add the chocolate mixture to a blender and add the soaked dates.
5. Pulse to combine, then puree the entire mixture.
6. Pour onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spread the chocolate mixture into a thin layer.
7. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours and then slice into squares.
8. Keep refrigerated until ready to eat.

Save