It wouldn’t be Valentine’s Day without chocolate! No matter if you’re celebrating with a partner, having a Galentines Day, or showering yourself with some self-care and love this holiday, indulging in a chocolatey sweet treat is the perfect way to enjoy the day.
The best part? You can enjoy a sweet treat, totally guilt-free. Enter: Healthy homemade chocolate recipes that are delicious and nutritious. Sounds too good to be true, but believe us — it’s simple. Not only are these healthy chocolate Valentine’s Day recipes low in sugar, easy to make, and delicious to enjoy, but they only require 10 ingredients or less. Plus, you probably have a lot of ingredients on hand! Say goodbye to sugary store-bought candy and serve up these chocolate treats for your loved ones, kiddos, or yourself. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.
Chocolate: A Secret Superfood!
Ok, it’s not really a secret — chocolate is a well-known superfood! While not all chocolate varieties are worthy of the title, dark chocolate and unsweetened cocoa are among the most nutritious types, packed with many science-backed health benefits. In fact, cocoa beans are even more antioxidant-rich than blueberries, green tea, and red wine, mostly thanks to their rich flavonoid levels. And let’s not forget about other nutrients like fiber and magnesium! As for the science-backed benefits, new 2023 research shows that flavanol-rich cocoa consumption may help to improve cognitive health in older adults by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Not to mention, the benefits on heart health, brain health, and mood.
The darker you go, the more benefits you’ll get! So, your best bet is choosing chocolate in its most natural form, like cacao powder, cacao nibs, or pure dark chocolate. But, research shows you’ll get the good-for-you benefits by opting for chocolate that’s 70% dark chocolate or higher. And if your chocolate is sweetened, try to stick with healthier brands that use natural sugar sources (more on this below).
11 Healthy Chocolate Recipes for Valentine’s Day (That Require 10 Ingredients or Less!)
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Of course, we had to mention this classic! Made with any fruit of choice and just two other ingredients (melted chocolate and a dash of coconut oil). While you can’t go wrong with strawberries, other fresh fruits like blueberries, raspberries, cherries, bananas, and pineapple are all sweet and delicious choices. Top with any additional add-ons like chopped pistachios or shredded coconut!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. (16 oz.) strawberries, washed and dried
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (such as Enjoy Life Foods or Hu Kitchen)
- 1-2 tsp coconut oil
To serve (optional):
- Shredded coconut
- Chopped nuts
- Drizzled nut butter or melted coconut butter
Directions:
Step #1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step #2: Wash and thoroughly dry strawberries.
Step #3: Add chocolate chips and coconut oil to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second increments (stirring between each) until chocolate is melted. Mix well to smooth any clumps.
Step #4: Holding each strawberry by the stem, dip in chocolate until well coated, then transfer to the lined baking sheet. Add any additional toppings of choice. Repeat with remaining strawberries.
Step #5: Chill strawberries in the fridge for 20-30 minutes, or until the chocolate sets completely. Remove from fridge and enjoy immediately (it may need to thaw for 5-10 minutes before enjoying). Store leftovers in an air-tight container in the fridge.
Chocolate Avocado Smoothie
This low-sugar chocolate avocado smoothie tastes just like a chocolate thick-shake, except it’s healthy and made with nutritious superfoods! Blended with satiating avocado and superfood-filled cocoa, enjoy as a healthy sweet treat. Enjoy yourself or double up the recipe and share the chocolate goodness!
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- ½ avocado
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp chia seeds
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- ½ banana
Directions:
Step #1: Add all ingredients to the blender. Taste test, adjusting ingredients as needed. For a sweeter smoothie, add stevia, maple syrup, or honey. Blend until smooth.
Dairy-Free Chocolate Avocado Pudding
Another chocolate + avocado combo, but make it a thick and creamy pudding. Made with dairy-free almond milk, unsweetened cocoa, and omega-rich avocado, this plant-based dessert will have you wondering how healthy can be so tasty. If you’re feeling like something extra, top it off with fresh fruit, chocolate chips, or a handful of coconut shavings!
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted with the flesh removed
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 3-4 tbsp cocoa or cacao powder
- ¼ cup unsweetened dairy-free milk of choice (almond, oat, or cashew milk)
- ½ tbsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Directions:
Step #1: Add all the above ingredients to a high-speed blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Alternatively, you can use a hand-blender to blend. Note: you may need to scrape down the sides and re-blend as needed.
Step #2: Once a pudding mixture is achieved, taste test and adjust ingredients as desired. Chill in the fridge for 1-2 hours before serving. Once chilled, portion and serve! Or, store in an air-tight jar in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
Easy Peanut Butter Chocolate Overnight Oats
Chocolate + PB are meant to be — especially on Valentine’s Day! But, instead of reaching for sugar-filled PB cups, get your fix with this decadent overnight oats recipe! Enjoy as a healthy dessert-for-breakfast option, mid-day snack, or even a healthy dessert!
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- ½ cup oats, rolled
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 cup oat milk
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp peanut butter
- ½ banana, sliced
- 1 tbsp cacao nibs, to serve
Directions:
Step #1: In a bowl or jar, add the oats and chia seeds. Pour milk over top and stir well. Cover and set in the fridge overnight.
Step #2: In the morning, add the cinnamon and cocoa powder and stir well.
Step #3: Top with peanut butter, sliced banana, and cacao nibs.
Step #4: Enjoy!
Homemade Healthy Dark Chocolate Bark
Homemade chocolate, made easier (and healthier) than ever! Why settle for sugary store-bought options when you can make your own superfood version with just three main ingredients? Customize for any flavor preferences, adding in your favorite healthy additions such as coconut, chopped nuts, and fresh or freeze-dried berries.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup coconut oil
- ⅓ cup cacao powder
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
- 2 tbsp coconut flakes, unsweetened
- 2 tbsp freeze-dried berries, unsweetened
- 2-3 tbsp chopped nuts of choice
Directions:
Step #1: Melt the coconut oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Lower the heat and whisk in the raw cacao powder and maple syrup.
Step #2: Line a small baking tray with parchment paper and pour the chocolate mixture onto the lined tray. Evenly spread the raw chocolate.
Step #3: Top with remaining ingredients.
Step #4: Cover and freeze until the chocolate is set (about one hour).
Step #5: Remove from the freezer and break into bite-sized bark.
Step #6: Store in an airtight container in the freezer until ready to serve!
Microwave PB Banana Chocolate Cake
Peanut butter, cocoa, banana, and dark chocolate chips are the only ingredients you need for this decadent-tasting four-ingredient chocolate mug cake. Ready in minutes and perfect as a single-serve sweet treat when you’re craving a chocolatey dessert without all the sugar and calories. Option to serve with a spoonful of banana nice cream, vanilla Greek yogurt, or homemade coco whip!
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp peanut butter
- 2 tbsp cocoa or cacao powder
- 1 ripe or spotty banana, mashed
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1-2 tbsp chocolate chips, optional
Directions:
Step #1: In a small bowl, combine the peanut butter, cocoa, mashed banana and baking powder. Option to fold in the chocolate chips, or any other add-ins of choice.
Step #2: Next, grease a ramekin or microwave-safe mug with cooking spray and pour the batter into the greased dish. Option to add a sprinkle of chocolate chips on top.
Step #3: Microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Serve with toppings of choice, such as fresh fruit or homemade whipped coconut cream.
Healthy Homemade Chocolate Date Bark
This viral date bark is made with just a handful of ingredients, and it’s no-bake, naturally sweetened, and made with real, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted (about 2 cups)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter, unsweetened
- ½ cup chopped peanuts (or almonds)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (option for dairy-free)
- 1-2 tsp coconut oil
- Flakey sea salt, to garnish
Directions:
Step #1: First, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step #2: Next, slice medjool dates lengthwise and remove the pit. Placing the open side down, press the dates into the parchment paper in an even line. (note: the dates should be close enough to touch). Cover the entire surface area of the tray until a single bottom date layer is formed. Option to press the dates down into the tray to flatten.
Step #3: For the next layer, drizzle the peanut butter over the top of the date later and spread evenly. Then, sprinkle with chopped peanuts. Finish with a pinch of flakey sea salt to top, adding any other toppings of choice, such as chopped almonds.
Step #4: Next, create the melted chocolate by adding the chocolate chips and coconut oil to a bowl and microwave until melted. Microwave in 30-second increments at a time, stirring between each increment. Once melted, pour over the top and spread until evenly coated.
Step #5: Transfer to the fridge or freezer and chill until firm. Once fully set, break the bark into bark pieces. Enjoy immediately, or store in the fridge in an air-tight jar until ready to enjoy!
Superfood Hot Chocolate
Dairy-free, low in sugar, and jam-packed with superfoods — perfect for a cozy Valentine’s nightcap. This healthy superfood hot chocolate comes together in minutes, and unlike other chocolatey drinks, it will actually help bust inflammation rather than promote it!
Serves: 2
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened oat or almond milk
- ½ cup full-fat unsweetened coconut milk (canned)
- 1.5 tbsp raw, unsweetened cacao powder
- 1 tsp ghee (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
To Serve (optional)
- Coconut whipped cream
- Sprinkle of ground cinnamon and turmeric
Directions:
Step #1: Add all the ingredients minus the whipped cream to a stock pot over low/medium heat and whisk well, heating until warm.
Step #2: Pour into two mugs and top with coconut whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and turmeric. Enjoy!
Raw Brownie Balls
Bite-sized brownie bites that are actually good for you! Made with healthy fats like almonds and walnuts, naturally sweetened with fiber-rich dates, and infused with unsweetened cocoa + dark chocolate for a healthy superfood boost.
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dates, pitted
- ½ cup almonds or cashews (or sub additional walnuts)
- 1 cup walnuts
- 4 tbsp cocoa or cacao powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch of sea salt
- 2 tbsp chocolate chips, optional
Step #1: Add everything but the chocolate chips to the food processor. Process until well combined, stopping to scrape down the sides and re-blend as needed. Once the mixture sticks together into a dough, add the chocolate chips and pulse an additional 1-2 times.
Step #2: Next, scoop the batter into tablespoon-sized portions, and use your hands to roll into balls. Chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before enjoying, and store in an air-tight container in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
Flourless Fudgy Sweet Potato Brownies
Craving something low in carbs and sugar? These fudgy sweet potato brownies are perfect when you’re looking for a healthy chocolate recipe for Valentine’s Day. Made with mashed sweet potato, almond butter, and cocoa powder for a guilt-free V-Day treat!
Serves: 8
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed sweet potato, cooked
- ½ cup almond butter
- 2-3 tbsp pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Dash of sea salt
Directions:
Step #1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Meanwhile, in a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the almond butter, mashed sweet potato, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
Step #2: Once well-combined into a batter, pour into a greased 8 x 8 baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through. Remove from the oven and let cool for 15-20 minutes before slicing into brownies.
No-Bake Raspberry & PB Fudge Bars
Not only are these raspberry and peanut butter fudge bars made with just four ingredients, but they also require no baking and come together in just 30 minutes! Naturally sweetened, full of creamy peanut butter, and made with antioxidant-rich berries and dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup natural creamy peanut butter, or crunchy if you want texture
- 1 ½ cups dark chocolate chips of choice
- ½ cup fresh or freeze-dried raspberries
- ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts, optional
Directions:
Step #1: Line an 8-square-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step #2: Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in intervals of 30 seconds until melted, stirring between each interval. Once melted, add the peanut butter, raspberries, and optional peanuts to the bowl and stir well to combine.
Step #3: Pour the chocolate mixture into the lined baking pan. Set in the refrigerator for 60 minutes or until firm.
Step #4: Once chilled, cut into bars or squares and store in the fridge for up to 7 days.
Healthy Store-Bought Chocolate Selections When You’re Short On Time
No time to make your own dessert, but not sure what to grab at the store? Not to worry, there are some good-for-you options out there! Based on ingredients, quality, allergies, and nutrition, here are the healthiest chocolate brands to consider:
- Best Overall: Hu Kitchen
- Best Chocolate Chips: Enjoy Life Foods
- Best Paleo Chocolate: Evolved Chocolate
- Best Plant-based Chocolate: Hu Kitchen
- Best Unsweetened Chocolate: Lily’s Extremely Dark Chocolate
- Best Cacao Powder: Navitas Organics
- Best Ingredients: Honey Mama’s
- Best Chocolate Candy: Unreal Chocolate
- Best Keto-Friendly Chocolate Candy: Evolved Chocolate Keto Cups
- Best Sustainable Chocolate: Alter Eco
Go Ahead, Love On These Chocolate Recipes
With eleven delicious and nutritious chocolate recipes to choose from, what’s not to love?! Make this Valentine’s Day one for the books by celebrating with decadent recipes that taste as good as they make you feel. Share with your loved ones or treat yourself to something tasty — if you’re choosing high-quality dark chocolate, consider it superfood self-care!
