Love chocolate but looking for some lighter recipes to try? We hear you. We have plenty of inspiring ways to incorporate this indulgent ingredient, from fruity desserts and fondues through to breakfast bowls and even a savoury dinner option. Read on to discover our favourite healthier chocolate recipes.

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1. Chocolate chia pudding

Chocolate chia pudding

If you like rich chocolate puddings, you'll love the intense cacao flavour of this healthy dessert. It's really easy to make and requires only five minutes to prepare, plus chilling time. It's low calorie, vegan and gluten-free, and we've opted to thicken it with chia seeds, which provide fibre, protein and healthy omega-3 fats. Now that's what we call feel-good food.

Chocolate chia pudding

2. Chocolate & berry mousse pots

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Serve these mousse pots in ramekins or glasses for a really pretty pudding that's good for you too. We've used dark chocolate, low-fat yogurt and egg whites to create a silky, light mousse that still packs in plenty of flavour. Spoon it on top of your choice of fresh berries et voilà – a delicious dessert in under 20 minutes.

Chocolate & berry mousse pots

3. Warming chocolate & banana porridge

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Chocolate for breakfast? Yes please! This luxurious breakfast bowl combines cocoa, vanilla and oats, soaked overnight for a super creamy texture. In the morning, simply cook with a ripe banana for some natural sweetness, and top with probiotic-rich bio yogurt and some extra fruit. It's a comforting yet healthy way to start your day.

Warming chocolate & banana porridge

4. Healthy banana & peanut butter ice cream

Healthy banana & peanut butter ice cream

There's no need to give up your favourite treat, you can still indulge in the occasional bowl of ice cream with our clever recipe. Blend almond milk, peanut butter and cinnamon with frozen bananas – they add a thick, creamy texture that's perfect for scooping. Top with grated dark chocolate for a heavenly treat that's guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Healthy banana & peanut butter ice cream

5. Fruity fondue

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Fresh fruit and chocolate is a match made in heaven, and this classic fondue is no exception – but as an added bonus it also notches up two portions of your 5-a-day. You can use any fruit that takes your fancy – we opted for strawberries and grapes, along with chunks of pineapple, mango and melon. Serve alongside a pot of fat-free yogurt for a palate-cleansing alternative dip.

Fruity fondue

6. Cocoa & cherry oat bake

Cocoa & cherry oat bake

Treat yourself in the morning to this delicious oat bake, it's packed with hazelnuts, dried cherries and cocoa nibs – small pieces of crushed cacao bean which have a bitter, chocolatey flavour. The addition of oats and chia seeds means this healthy breakfast will keep you feeling full and satisfied until lunchtime. It's lovely served warm with a spoonful of cherry compote or fat-free yogurt.

Cocoa & cherry oat bake

7. Healthy chocolate milk

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This nutritious chocolate milk couldn't be easier to make, and is packed with good-for-you ingredients including quinoa, cocoa powder, cinnamon and soya milk. The slight green tinge comes from iron-rich frozen spinach – which may sound strange, but trust us – it tastes great. Each glass is also high in protein, making it an ideal way to refuel after a strenuous workout.

Healthy chocolate milk

8. Spiced braised venison with chilli & chocolate

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Last but certainly not least, here's a savoury option to try. Chilli and chocolate are a wonderful combination and this hearty stew is enriched with dark chocolate to add a depth and glossiness to the sauce. It's packed with flavour from cumin, coriander, cinnamon, thyme and bay, and cooked low and slow until the meat is melt-in-the-mouth tender. The result? A rich, comforting dish that's a real crowd pleaser.

Spiced braised venison with chilli & chocolate

Now try

Is dark chocolate good for you?
Delicious healthy treat ideas
A guide to sugar-free baking
Our top lower sugar recipes


This article was published on 6th June 2022.

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