We're not going to diss roses and we definitely wouldn't be opposed to a ring (hint, hint)... but the thing that often brings us the most joy on Valentine's Day is chocolate. Chocolate in all forms: A heart-shaped box is a classic treat, of course, though we also find ourselves gravitating towards mouthwatering chocolate desserts. Rich, gooey chocolate is the sweet stuff dreams are made of... and it's even better when it has some nutritious attributes.
Plot twist: There are actually tons of health benefits to eating dark chocolate, and they can be increased when its combined with other virtuous ingredients such as fruit — which is one of chocolate's most popular pairings. (Strawberries and chocolate, anyone?). Add some nuts or nut butter, coconut or dates and you've got something that will make anyone's tummy feel the love.
Okay so sure, chocolate desserts might not be as virtuous as, say, a smoothie — but they beat out any mass-manufactured sweets by a mile. Another bonus? they're something you'll love whether you're shacked up, single, or even staunchly anti-V-Day. Prepare to drool over the healthy-ish chocolate desserts that will make you fall more in love with chocolate.
Avo toast is great and all, but it's not going to satisfy our chocolate craving on Valentine's Day. These rich avocado truffles definitely do: The surprise ingredient gives them the decadent texture we look for in the bite-sized treats. Even better, there are versions for vegan, keto and paleo diets because everyone deserves a lip-smacking dessert.
Chocolate Brownie with Chocolate Chunks and Hidden Vegetables
You'd never guess that there's a load of vitamin-rich sweet potato lurking in these brownies. The veg lends itself well to creating the elusive, perfect-textured brownie, but all you will taste is chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate. Also, how gorgeous is the presentation? We highly encourage you to arrange your Valentine's Day meal in a similar floral-strewn fashion.
These are not the peanut cups you're thinking of. For one thing, they have a delectable layer of strawberry jam inside. They're also made with reishi mushroom. (Yes, really). Turns out, Reishi powder and cacao are perfect partners and really boost the bar's nutrition — though, don't worry: Decadent chocolate and PB&J are all you'll taste.
It's always a good time for cheesecake and this raw version means we don't have to worry about oozing oven disasters. And there's never a bad way to combine cherries and chocolate, especially when they're layered together in such a picturesque manner.
