Most of the commercial candy bars we buy and eat are loaded with unhealthy sugar. But consuming dark chocolate made from cacao seeds actually has many health benefits. Said to be one of the best sources of antioxidants, a 100 gram bar of the dark variety has a good amount of fiber, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium and many other nutrients. It is also said to help improve circulation and lower blood pressure. But like any other sweet treat, remember to consume it in moderation!
Dark chocolate granola with peanut butter
What you need:
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2 cups of oats
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
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1/4 cup flaked almonds
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1/4 cup sweetened dried cranberries
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2 tablespoons of honey
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2 tablespoons peanut butter
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2 tablespoons butter flavored spread
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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Nonstick Cooking Spray
In a saucepan over low heat, combine brown sugar, honey, peanut butter, spread, and vanilla extract. Stir until the ingredients are well mixed. Remove from stove. In a large bowl, combine oatmeal, cinnamon, and salt, then add the peanut butter mixture to the bowl. Add dark chocolate, almonds and cranberries. Using a spoon, spoon the mixture into a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish sprayed with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven (175 degrees Celsius) for 15 to 18 minutes or until browned.
Quick Chocolate Mint Fudge
What you need:
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3 cups semi-sweet dark chocolate chips
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1 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
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1/2 cup crushed peppermints
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1/4 cup butter
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1 1/2 teaspoons pure mint extract
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1 pinch of salt
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate, evaporated milk, butter, mint extract, and salt. Stir until the ingredients are well mixed. Melt in the microwave over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes or until the chips are melted. Remove from heat and stir in mints. Pour the mixture into an 8×8 silicone baking pan, cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until set.
Easy dark chocolate mousse
What you need:
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2 egg yolks
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1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon heavy cream, chilled
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1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate
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4 tablespoons of water
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 tablespoon of sugar
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1/8 teaspoon ground dried chipotle pepper
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1 small pinch of salt
In a small heatproof bowl, combine dark chocolate, 2 tablespoons water, butter, chipotle pepper, and salt. Fill a saucepan with water and simmer over low heat. Place a bowl over a saucepan of simmering water until butter melts, stirring until smooth. Set aside to cool. In a separate heatproof bowl, whisk together egg yolks, 2 tablespoons water, and sugar. Place over saucepan of simmering water and stir until mixture is hot, about 3 minutes. Pour the egg mixture into the chocolate mixture and stir until smooth. Leave to cool to room temperature. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mixture. Pour the batter into the molds. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.
Try these drool-worthy dark chocolate recipes and you’ll love sweet treats even more!
Thanks to Adrian T. Cheng
