No-Bake Vegan Raspberry Chocolate Discs
These Easy Vegan Raspberry Chocolate Discs are a healthy, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for the whole family. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these dairy-free, kid-friendly treats are a delicious and antioxidant-rich way to satisfy your chocolate cravings. They are a perfect vegan chocolate snack or a great healthy chocolate option. These are great for Valentine’s day or a great summer dessert.
Nutritional Benefits
Dark Chocolate: Not only is dark chocolate a delicious treat, but it’s also a powerhouse of antioxidants, particularly flavonoids. These compounds have been shown to support cardiovascular health by improving blood flow, lowering blood pressure, and reducing inflammation. Additionally, dark chocolate can boost brain function, improving mood and cognitive performance. Look for chocolate with a high percentage of cacao (70% or higher) for maximum benefits.
Freeze-Dried Raspberries: Don’t underestimate these vibrant berries! Freeze-drying locks in their nutrients, making them a concentrated source of fiber for digestive health and vitamin C to support your immune system. Their tangy flavor adds a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate.
Almond Milk: This dairy-free milk is a smart choice for those seeking a lower-calorie, lower-sugar alternative. It provides a good dose of vitamin E for healthy skin and is often fortified with calcium. Unsweetened almond milk is the best choice to keep added sugars in check.
Hemp Seeds: These nutritional superstars offer a complete plant-based protein and a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids. This makes them excellent for supporting heart health, muscle recovery, and overall well-being. Their subtle nutty flavor and satisfying crunch add another layer of deliciousness to your treats.
Add-ins and Substitutions to Make These Vegan Chocolate Raspberry Discs Your Own!
For Extra Crunch and Healthy Fats:
- Nuts: Finely chopped almonds, cashews, or pistachios add a delightful crunch and a boost of healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E. These nuts are great for heart health and make these easy vegan chocolate treats even more satisfying. Consider toasting the nuts for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- Seeds: Sprinkle in some chia seeds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for extra nutrients, fiber, and a subtle textural difference. Chia seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, while sunflower seeds provide vitamin E and magnesium, making these a perfect way to add more nutrition to your plant-based desserts.
Boost of Natural Sweetness and Antioxidants:
- Dried Fruit: Incorporate finely chopped dried cherries, blueberries, cranberries, or goji berries for added bursts of natural sweetness, fiber, and a powerful dose of antioxidants. These make a great addition to a healthy vegan snack or kid-friendly dessert. Consider using unsweetened dried fruit to keep the sugar content in check.
- Freeze-Dried Fruit: In addition to your fresh raspberries, try adding other freeze-dried fruits like strawberries or blueberries. These will provide the same antioxidants and sweetness as dried fruit with less sugar.
Flavor and Texture Variations:
- Coconut Flakes: Unsweetened shredded coconut adds a delicious tropical flavor and a boost of healthy fats, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which some studies suggest may aid in weight management. They also contribute to a lovely chewy texture in these vegan chocolate treats.
- Cacao Nibs: For an intensely rich chocolate flavor and a satisfying crunch, sprinkle in some cacao nibs. These little powerhouses are packed with antioxidants and provide a more complex, slightly bitter chocolate note that complements the sweetness of the raspberries. They are a great way to enjoy guilt-free chocolate.
- Sea Salt: A small sprinkle of sea salt on top of each disc will bring out the sweetness of the chocolate and the tartness of the raspberries.
Creamy, Dreamy Centers:
- Peanut Butter or Almond Butter: Swirl in a spoonful of your favorite natural peanut butter or almond butter into the melted chocolate for a creamy, protein-rich center. This classic flavor combination is always a hit, especially in kid-friendly vegan desserts. You can also use other nut butters like cashew butter or sunflower seed butter.
Extra Flavor and Spice:
- Spices: A dash of cinnamon, cardamom, or even a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile of your chocolate discs, adding warmth and depth. These spices also boast their own health benefits.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract will elevate your chocolate discs.
- Mint Extract: Adding a bit of mint extract to your chocolate will create a delicious, mint-chocolate flavor.
Added Texture and Fiber:
- Granola: Sprinkle a small amount of your favorite vegan granola on top of the chocolate discs before they set for added crunch, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. This is a great way to add more texture to these easy vegan chocolate snacks. Choose a granola that is low in added sugar.
Other Fun Ideas
- Vegan White Chocolate: Drizzle some melted vegan white chocolate on top for a beautiful presentation and added sweetness.
- Pretzel Pieces: Add some crushed pretzel pieces on top for a sweet and salty combination.
Important Considerations:
- Allergies: Always be mindful of any allergies when choosing add-ins.
- Sugar Content: If you’re watching your sugar intake, be mindful of the amount of dried fruit or other sweeteners you add.
- Gluten-Free: If you need these treats to be gluten-free, make sure all your add-ins are certified gluten-free.
More Festive Recipes
Tips for Making the Best No-Bake Chocolate Raspberry Bites
- For a smoother chocolate, use a high-quality vegan dark chocolate and add a tablespoon of coconut oil while melting.
- Get creative with toppings! Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of vegan white chocolate on top of the discs before they set.
- Make it a fun activity with the kids! Let them help you place the raspberries and spoon the chocolate onto the baking sheet.
- Try using other berries like blueberries or sliced strawberries instead of raspberries for a fun flavor variation. You could even try making a mixed berry version with all your favorites!
If you love chocolate and raspberries, check out this delicious smoothie recipe to die for!
No-Bake Vegan Raspberry Chocolate Discs
Ingredients
- 250 g dark chocolate melted
- 34 g freeze dried raspberries unstweetened
- 1 tbsp almond milk or more, to help chocolate melt
- 1 tbsp hemp seeds to decorate
Instructions
- Melt the Chocolate: In a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl, gently melt the vegan chocolate chips with the almond milk (or coconut oil). Stir frequently until smooth and completely melted.
- Add the Raspberries: Remove from heat and add the full bag of Trader Joe's freeze-dried raspberries. Gently stir until all the raspberries are evenly coated in chocolate.
- Form the Discs: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spoon the chocolate-raspberry mixture onto the prepared sheet, forming small, round discs.
- Add Toppings (Optional): While the chocolate is still melted, sprinkle your desired toppings over the discs. Hemp seeds add a boost of nutrition, while chopped nuts or shredded coconut provide extra texture and flavor. A pinch of sea salt can enhance the sweetness of the chocolate.
- Chill: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set.
Notes
Nutrition
