Chocolate Craving Alternatives

“Satisfy Your Chocolate Cravings with These Healthy Alternatives”

Chocolate cravings can strike at any time, but indulging in a chocolate bar or a box of chocolates every time you get a hankering can quickly lead to an unhealthy habit. Fortunately, there are delicious and nutritious alternatives that can help you satisfy your chocolate cravings without the guilt. In this article, we'll explore ten options with a chocolate taste that not only tantalize your taste buds but also provide valuable nutrients.

Note: We've included the calorie count for each option to help you make informed choices.

1. Dark Chocolate-Covered Almonds

Dark chocolate is lower in sugar and higher in cocoa content, making it a healthier chocolate option. Combine it with heart-healthy almonds for a delightful snack. To make dark chocolate-covered almonds, melt dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) and dip each almond individually. Let them cool on a parchment-lined tray. One serving (about 28g) of dark chocolate-covered almonds contains approximately 150 calories.

2. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Chocolate-dipped strawberries are a classic treat that combines the sweetness of fruit with the richness of chocolate. Melt dark chocolate as mentioned earlier, dip fresh strawberries in it, and let them cool until the chocolate hardens. One chocolate-dipped strawberry contains about 30-40 calories, depending on the size. One serving (about 6 strawberries) of dark chocolate-covered strawberries contains approximately 150 calories.

3. Chocolate-Covered Banana Bites

Slice a banana into bite-sized pieces and dip each piece into melted dark chocolate. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until the chocolate hardens. These delicious bites come in at around 50-60 calories per serving.

4. Chocolate Rice Cakes

Opt for whole-grain rice cakes and spread a thin layer of almond or peanut butter on top. Sprinkle with dark chocolate chips for a satisfying crunch. Two chocolate rice cakes with a tablespoon of nut butter and chocolate chips provide approximately 200-250 calories.

You can also smash the rice cakes in a bowl, mix them with peanut butter, and roll them into bite-sized balls. Then, melt dark chocolate as mentioned above, dip bite-sized balls in it, and let them cool until the chocolate hardens.

5. Chocolate Protein Bars & Energie Balls

Many brands offer chocolate-flavored protein bars that mimic the taste of a chocolate bar without the added sugars and unhealthy fats. Look for options with at least 15 grams of protein and fewer than 200 calories per bar. If you are interested in making your own chocolate protein bars, you can check out a delicious recipe that the ATHENS FORCE Nutrition Team recommends.

Also, chocolate protein balls are the perfect solution, when you're craving chocolate but also want a protein boost. Mix the protein powder, almond butter, oats, and cocoa powder, then roll them into bite-sized balls. The number of calories per serving (2 balls) is approximately 100.

6. Chocolate Smoothie Bowl

When you're in the mood for something creamy and chocolatey, whip up a chocolate smoothie bowl. Blend together a ripe banana (or frozen banana), a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder, a splash of almond milk, and a teaspoon of honey. Top it with sliced strawberries, a sprinkle of chia seeds, and a few dark chocolate chips. This satisfying bowl comes in at around 250-300 calories, depending on your toppings.

Also, a chocolate banana smoothie is a creamy and satisfying option that provides a delightful chocolate flavor. If you want to make your own chocolate protein smoothie, you can check out this tasty recipe that the ATHENS FORCE Nutrition Team recommends.

7. Chocolate Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is packed with protein and probiotics, making it a great choice for a healthy snack. Stir in a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, and a few chocolate chips for that extra chocolatey kick. A serving of chocolate Greek yogurt clocks in at approximately 150-200 calories.

8. Chocolate Avocado Mousse

Avocado may not be the first ingredient that comes to mind when you think of chocolate, but it makes for a surprisingly creamy and healthy mousse. Mix ripe avocado with unsweetened cocoa powder and a sweetener of your choice for a rich and satisfying dessert. A serving of this tasty chocolate avocado mousse contains approximately 180 calories.

9. Chocolate Chia Pudding

Chia seeds are known for their incredible ability to absorb liquid and create a pudding-like consistency. Mix them with unsweetened cocoa powder, almond milk, and a sweetener of your choice to make a guilt-free chocolate chia pudding. One serving of chocolate chia pudding contains approximately 140 calories.

10. Chocolate Oatmeal

Upgrade your morning oatmeal by adding cocoa powder, a touch of vanilla extract, and a sweetener of your choice. Top it with fresh berries or sliced bananas for an extra burst of flavor. One serving contains approximately 250 calories.

Conclusion

Chocolate cravings don't have to lead to unhealthy choices. These delectable alternatives with a chocolate taste can satisfy your sweet tooth while helping you stay on track with your health and wellness goals. Remember to enjoy them in moderation and savor the guilt-free pleasure they bring. By making these healthier choices, you can have your chocolate fix without the guilt, and you'll be nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients along the way.