10 Paleo and Vegan Homemade Chocolate Treats

Skip the store-bought chocolates and make these healthier homemade paleo and vegan sweets instead.

Sometimes you just need chocolate. No holiday or celebration seems quite complete without it, it’s the perfect gift for almost every occasion, and who doesn’t enjoy treating themselves to a little something sweet just because?

That’s why having a stash of homemade chocolate sweets and treats comes in handy, and thanks to these healthy homemade chocolate recipes that are free from processed ingredients and preservatives, you can also feel good about getting your chocolate fix.

These 10 homemade gluten-free, paleo and vegan recipes feature chocolate in all its glory. From mini chocolate cups and truffles, to fruit and nut clusters and fudgy treats, these recipes are all no-bake and can be made ahead of time so you can make a batch over the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week.  And for those days when you just can’t put in the effort to make dessert, try serving a plate of homemade chocolates after dinner instead.

1. Chocolate Coconut Almond Clusters

Also known as rochers, these bite-sized clusters are a delightfully easy chocolate candy that anyone can make.  They have a rich chocolate flavor, with a firm truffle-like consistency and are filled with tasty bits of toasted almonds and coconut.

2. Dark Chocolate Tahini Cups

These little chocolate tahini cups will quickly become a favorite, they’re toasty and nutty, sweet and salty, and of course chocolatey.  They’re a twist on the classic peanut butter cup, but with tahini and a hint of spice instead.

3. Almond Praline Chocolate Rochers

With their rich, creamy, nutty interiors and their smooth, crackly, crunchy exteriors, these rochers will turn every day into a special occasion. So deceptively simple, they’re perfect with a cup of coffee or for when a thoughtful homemade gift would be appreciated.

4. Chocolate Mousse Truffle Squares

These are no ordinary truffles! Made from just chocolate and water, these truffles have a bold flavor and velvety texture akin to a thick mousse. If you’re looking for something a little different to make and give as a gift, this recipe is definitely for you.

5. Pistachio Mulberry Fruit and Nut Clusters

Dark, rich and studded with caramelized fruit and nuts, these pistachio mulberry clusters make for a nice after-dinner treat and are easy to whip up whenever you need something sweet.  You can make a dozen of them in minutes with ingredients that you may already have in your pantry.

6. Chocolate Cherry Pecan Fudge

While traditional fudge can be a labor of love with its precise temperatures and techniques, this foolproof chocolate fudge comes together quickly.  It’s the kind of recipe you can throw together the night before and keep in the fridge for whenever a craving strikes.

7. Raw Raspberry Chocolates

Here’s how to turn raw cacao powder into the most delicious little chocolates. All you’ll need are a handful of ingredients, a little bit of time to let them set in the fridge and you’re done. The finished chocolates keep well for a long time so you can make a big batch ahead of time to keep on hand for when a craving strikes.

8. Chocolate Coconut Stuffed Dates

Soft, sweet dates are stuffed with a filling of coconut flavored with just the barest hint of vanilla or cinnamon, and then take a dip in a rich dark chocolate bath, to create a thin shell of flaky chocolate that cracks gently between your teeth as you bite into each one.

9. Chocolate Candied Walnuts

Candying nuts is quicker and easier than you think. These chocolate covered candied walnuts are coated with a crunchy maple caramel, melted dark chocolate and then dusted with cocoa for an elegant and chocolatey treat that makes a great gift or party nibble.

10. No-Bake Chocolate Fudge Fridge Cake

More like fudge than a proper cake, this is the sort of treat you make when you need an easy make-ahead dessert and you don’t feel like turning on the oven.  It’s a one-bowl kind of dessert that’s made for busy days. Dark and decadent, a small slice goes a long way.

Sylvie

Sylvie Shirazi is the recipe developer and food photographer behind Gourmande in the Kitchen. For the last 10 years she’s been making eating more healthfully easy and accessible with gluten-free, grain-free, paleo and vegan recipes that are free from processed ingredients.