Healthy Chocolate Treats

I used to be addicted to these chocolate almond cluster candies. These were whole roasted almonds encased in milk chocolate shaped into clusters of about 120 calories each and chock full of sugar. Of course, they were addictive, so I would eat several at once. These days, I have been reducing sugar, eliminating daily desserts and generally trying to eat healthful foods made from whole food ingredients.  One of my favorites now is good quality dark chocolate, where I’ve been eating the 85% cocoa version, up from 72% that I used to like.  I find that the deeper chocolate taste really grows on you.  I still miss treats, especially immediately after dinner, so I came up with these chocolate treats which have much less sugar and can include any mix-ins that you want.  I like toasted chopped walnuts, almonds, pecans, and a touch of shredded unsweetened coconut. Just be sure to exercise portion control, as they are still high in calories, although since they are so rich, they are quite satisfying:

Healthy Chocolate Treats

One 3.5 oz. chocolate bar (72% cocoa or higher)
1 T coconut oil or creamed coconut
2 T nut butter (can use peanut, almond, or macadamia)
1/2 t vanilla extract
dash cinnamon (optional)
1 cup mix ins, chopped toasted walnuts, almonds, coconut, or dried fruit

Over a double boiler, or in a small dish in the microwave, melt the chocolate and coconut oil together until just melted.  Remove from heat and stir vigorously.  Stir in the nut butter, vanilla, and cinnamon until completely combined.  If your nut butter was chilled, this should start to stiffen.  Stir in the mix-ins quickly and mix thoroughly.  Drop by small teaspoonfuls onto parchment paper or silpat and then place in the refrigerator to chill through or freeze for 5 minutes until set.  Eat immediately or store in the refrigerator.

shared at $5 Dinners, Works for Me Wednesday, Pennywise Platter, Food Renegade, Grocery Cart Challenge, and Tempt My Tummy Tuesday