Chocolate Almond Butter Bites
Highlighted under: Easy Desserts Inspiration
I absolutely adore treating myself to simple yet indulgent snacks, and these Chocolate Almond Butter Bites are a perfect fit. They combine the richness of dark chocolate with creamy almond butter, creating a delightful treat that satisfies my sweet tooth. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip these up in under 30 minutes. Whether I'm craving a midday pick-me-up or a post-dinner sweet, these bites never fail to bring a smile to my face.
When I first tried making these bites, I was skeptical about how well the almond butter would pair with chocolate. To my delight, the combination created a rich, creamy texture that was utterly irresistible. I learned that using high-quality dark chocolate makes a significant difference in flavor, so I always opt for at least 70% cocoa content.
As I experimented with the proportions, I found that a touch of sea salt sprinkled on top elevates the bites to a whole new level. Trust me, that salty-sweet contrast is what makes these treats truly addictive!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy almond butter
- Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients
- Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while staying healthy
Ingredient Insights
Almond butter is the star of this recipe, bringing a creamy texture and nutty flavor that balances beautifully with the rich dark chocolate. Opt for unsweetened almond butter to prevent your bites from becoming too sweet. If you’re avoiding almonds or have a nut allergy, feel free to substitute with sun butter or cashew butter, both of which will yield a different but delightful flavor profile.
Choosing the right dark chocolate is key to achieving the perfect flavor in your bites. Look for chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a deep, rich taste that harmonizes with the sweetness of the almond butter. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider using flavored dark chocolate, such as sea salt or orange-infused varieties, to elevate the complexity of your treat.
Tips for Perfectly Shaped Bites
When shaping the almond butter balls, keep your hands slightly damp to prevent the mixture from sticking. If the mixture is too sticky, refrigerate it for about 10 minutes to firm it up before rolling. This will also help you create uniform, bite-sized portions, which are not only visually appealing but also ensure consistent flavor in every bite.
If you want to give your bites an extra touch, consider rolling them in crushed nuts or shredded coconut after dipping in chocolate. This adds texture and flavor, making each bite even more satisfying. Just ensure that any coating complements rather than competes with the rich chocolate and almond butter combination.
Storage and Enjoying Your Bites
After chilling your Chocolate Almond Butter Bites, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes for the best texture.
These bites are not just a great snack; they can also be packed as a healthy treat for lunches or enjoyed as a quick energy boost before workouts. I love taking a few with me when heading out for hikes or long drives; their perfect combination of protein and sweetness keeps me satisfied without the typical sugar crash.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful bites:
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond butter
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or more)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)
- Extra sea salt for topping
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Chocolate Almond Butter Bites:
Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and melt them in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
Mix the Almond Butter Mixture
In a bowl, combine the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until well mixed.
Combine and Shape
Once the chocolate is melted, take half and mix it into the almond butter mixture. Scoop out small portions and shape them into balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet.
Coat in Chocolate
Dip each almond butter ball into the remaining melted chocolate and return to the baking sheet. Sprinkle with extra sea salt if desired.
Chill Until Set
Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes until the chocolate is firm. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Almond Butter Bites!
Pro Tips
- For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped almonds or a bit of shredded coconut to the almond butter mixture before shaping the bites.
Making Ahead
One of my favorite things about these Chocolate Almond Butter Bites is that they can be made ahead of time. Preparing them on a Sunday enables you to have a healthy snack ready for the week. The flavor develops beautifully over a day or two as the ingredients meld, making them even tastier after resting in the fridge.
If you're making these for an event or gathering, consider doubling the batch. They are easy to prepare in bulk, and having a variety on hand means you'll have a perfect treat for any guest. Just keep in mind that they will need to chill for at least 20 minutes per batch before serving, so factor that into your timeline.
Flavor Variations
While the original recipe is delightful, consider experimenting with different flavor infusions. You could add spices like cinnamon or cardamom to the almond butter mixture for a warm, comforting flavor. Alternatively, a splash of espresso powder can enhance the chocolate notes and provide a lovely coffee flavor without the need for additional ingredients.
If you want to add a bit of fruitiness, try stirring in some dried fruit or mini chocolate chips into the almond butter before shaping. Dried cherries or cranberries pair particularly well with chocolate, adding a pleasing tartness that contrasts the sweetness of the bites.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular peanut butter instead of almond butter?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter, but the flavor will be different.
→ How should I store these bites?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these bites?
Absolutely! They freeze well, and you can keep them in the freezer for up to three months.
→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace honey with maple syrup to make it vegan.
Chocolate Almond Butter Bites
I absolutely adore treating myself to simple yet indulgent snacks, and these Chocolate Almond Butter Bites are a perfect fit. They combine the richness of dark chocolate with creamy almond butter, creating a delightful treat that satisfies my sweet tooth. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip these up in under 30 minutes. Whether I'm craving a midday pick-me-up or a post-dinner sweet, these bites never fail to bring a smile to my face.
Created by: Nicola Fairchild
Recipe Type: Easy Desserts Inspiration
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bites
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond butter
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or more)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)
- Extra sea salt for topping
How-To Steps
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and melt them in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
In a bowl, combine the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until well mixed.
Once the chocolate is melted, take half and mix it into the almond butter mixture. Scoop out small portions and shape them into balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet.
Dip each almond butter ball into the remaining melted chocolate and return to the baking sheet. Sprinkle with extra sea salt if desired.
Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes until the chocolate is firm. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Almond Butter Bites!
Extra Tips
- For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped almonds or a bit of shredded coconut to the almond butter mixture before shaping the bites.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 13g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g