Raw Chocolate

I love making my own chocolate, it is much healthier to use raw cacao and you can choose how to sweeten it. I often use agave nectar in it as it works well, I tried it with honey but the honey was too heavy and sunk to the bottom. If you want a lower GI then use maple syrup or the version with dates below.

It's best to keep it in the freezer as it melts easier than shop-bought chocolate but it tastes divine!

Ingredients

½ cup (100 g) raw cacao butter

2 tbsp (25 g) coconut oil

½ cup (50 g) raw cacao powder

4 - 6 soft Medjool dates, pitted (80 -100 g)

(or use 2 - 3 tbsp (30 - 45 ml) maple syrup or coconut nectar)

2 tbsp (30 ml) warm water

1 pinch sea salt

1 vanilla pod (optional)

Instructions

1. Melt the cacao butter and coconut oil gently in a bain-marie

2. Blend the dates with warm water to make a smooth paste.

3. Stir the date paste into the melted mixture.

4. Add the cacao powder, salt and vanilla and mix it well.

5. Optional step - Add anything else that you like such as lucuma powder, berry powders, purple corn powder, cacao nibs, goji berries, dried berries like mulberries (my favourite), coconut flakes, frozen berries, raisins, chopped nuts, seeds, chili powder, ginger, carob, other dried fruits or freeze dried fruit.

6. Pour into moulds or onto baking paper and put it in the freezer for at least 30 minutes.

Health Benefits

Raw chocolate, made from raw cacao rather than roasted cocoa, is a potent superfood with numerous physical, mental and emotional benefits. It is rich in magnesium, which supports muscle relaxation, nerve function and heart health and contains high levels of antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. The natural compounds in cacao improve circulation, support gut health through prebiotic polyphenols and provide essential minerals such as iron and zinc, which strengthen immunity and energy levels. On a mental and emotional level, raw chocolate helps increase serotonin, dopamine, and anandamide - the so-called “bliss molecule” - which naturally elevate mood and promote feelings of calm and connection. It also contains theobromine which is a mild stimulant that enhances focus and energy without the jittery effects of caffeine. Spiritually, raw cacao is known to open the heart, deepen meditation and encourage emotional healing and self-love. When enjoyed mindfully, it becomes not just a treat, but a grounding ritual that nourishes both body and soul.