Tag

chocolate

Browsing
30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Cups

By
a healthy strawberry peanut butter cup with a bite taken out.

I went on a sort of healthier candy spree last fall with my healthy snickers recipe, 4 ingredient date caramels, and healthy homemade butterfingers. All of which are delicious, but I was missing one of the most popular (and one of my personal faves) candies – peanut butter cups! And honestly, had I known making your own homemade healthy peanut butter cups was this easy, I’d have been making them for yearssss. Just chocolate (I used dark, but use whatever you prefer!), peanut butter, almond flour, coconut oil, and just a touch of maple syrup is all you’ll need for this super easy and no-bake dessert recipe!

healthy strawberry peanut butter cups on a sheet of parchment paper.

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Cups

  • Made with just 5 wholesome ingredients, these peanut butter cups are easy, no-bake, and naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
  • The creamy peanut butter filling paired with rich dark chocolate and a touch of strawberry makes them a perfectly indulgent yet nourishing treat.
  • Customizable to suit your dietary needs – refined sugar-free, nut-free, or vegan – without compromising flavor.

What Makes This Recipe Healthy?

Unlike traditional peanut butter cups loaded with refined sugars and additives, this recipe uses natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. The inclusion of almond flour adds a dose of healthy fats and fiber, while the use of dark chocolate chips provides antioxidants. By choosing unsweetened peanut butter, you control the sweetness and ensure a treat that’s both delicious and nourishing!

close up image of a healthy strawberry peanut butter cup with a bite taken out.

Can I Use a Different Sweetener?

Absolutely! If you prefer a different natural sweetener, options like agave nectar or coconut sugar work well in this recipe. Keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust to taste. For a sugar-free version, consider using a monk fruit sweetener or stevia, but be sure to check the conversion rates as they differ from traditional sweeteners.​

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Nut-Free: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and almond flour with oat flour to eliminate nuts while maintaining texture and flavor.​
  • Make it Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate chips to ensure the entire recipe remains free from dairy products.​
  • Make it Refined Sugar-Free: Opt for dark chocolate chips sweetened with coconut sugar or stevia, and use maple syrup or honey as your sweetener of choice.​
a healthy strawberry peanut butter cup with a bite taken out.
No ratings yet

Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Cups

These healthy strawberry peanut butter cups are a delicious, no-bake treat made with just 5 simple ingredients. Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, they’re perfect for a quick snack or a better-for-you dessert. Easy to customize and bursting with sweet, chocolatey flavor, they’re the ultimate healthy twist on a classic favorite.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

  • 2 small bowls
  • 1 mini muffin pan

Ingredients

For the chocolate layer:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the peanut butter filling:

  • 1/2 cup peanut butter unsweetened
  • 2-3 tablespoons almond flour or 1-2 tablespoons coconut flour
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey

Instructions

  • Line a mini muffin pan with mini liners.
  • Melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely melted and smooth.
  • Once the chocolate is melted, pour about 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner and use a spoon to spread the chocolate around to cover the entire bottom of the liner. Once all liners are lined with chocolate, transfer your muffin pan to the freezer to set and set the remaining melted chocolate aside.
  • While the chocolate sets, add all peanut butter filling ingredients to a bowl and stir together until smooth, slightly thick, and combined.
  • Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the peanut butter filling mixture into the palm of your hands and roll it into a ball, then flatten it slightly to form a disk. Remove the muffin tin from the freezer and place one disk on top of each cup lined with chocolate. Repeat this process until all cups have been filled with peanut butter.
  • Pour 1-2 teaspoons of melted chocolate over each peanut butter cup, making sure you completely cover the peanut butter inside.Once all peanut butter cups are filled with chocolate, transfer the pan back into the freezer for 10-15 minutes or until the chocolate is completely set.Remove the strawberry peanut butter cups from the freezer, transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge or enjoy right away!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 120kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Sugar: 6g
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

5 Ingredient Cookie Dough Protein Balls

By
cookie dough protein balls on a plate

Why You’ll Love These Protein Balls

Easy, No-Bake Snack: Made with just 5 simple ingredients and ready in minutes – no oven required!

Packed with Protein: Each ball contains 7 grams of protein, making them a perfect post-workout or midday snack.

Healthy & Dietary-Friendly: Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup.

Recipe Variations

  • Mix in Superfoods: Add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp hearts for extra fiber and omega-3s.
  • Swap the Nut Butter: Use almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor. For nut-free, use sunflower seed butter.
  • Boost the Chocolate: Dip the balls in melted dark chocolate and let them harden in the fridge for a chocolate-covered protein treat!

The Mixture is Too Dry, What Do I Do?

If the mixture is dry or crumbly, simply:

  • Add 1 tablespoon of water or almond milk at a time until the dough comes together.
  • Alternatively, add an extra tablespoon of peanut butter for more moisture and flavor.
Hand holding a cookie dough protein ball.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter and use oat flour instead of almond flour.
  • Make it Keto: Use almond flour instead of oats and a sugar-free maple syrup alternative.
  • Make it Grain-Free/Paleo: Skip the oats and use almond flour for a smooth, doughy texture.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge: Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw for a few minutes before enjoying.

More Healthy Snack Recipes

If you love these no-bake protein balls, check out my other snack recipes like:

Enjoy these 5-ingredient cookie dough protein balls as a nutritious snack or dessert! 😋

cookie dough protein balls on a plate
No ratings yet

Cookie Dough Protein Balls

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these 5-ingredient cookie dough protein balls – the perfect no-bake snack! Packed with 7 grams of protein per ball, they’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making them ideal for a healthy energy boost. Ready in minutes, they’re a delicious and nutritious way to fuel your day!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 medium bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats or almond flour
  • 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a medium bowl and stir until thoroughly combined.
  • Roll mixture into 1-inch balls.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 145kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 6g | Sugar: 7g
View Post
By
Dairy-Free

Healthy Gluten-Free Magic Bars

By
overhead image of a healthy gluten-free magic bar with chocolate chips on top.

Magic bars were one of my favorite childhood treats! My mom had a few dessert recipes she rotated through – her famous watergate salad was a big one, and 7-layer magic bars were a close second. So when I got hit with this insane craving for magic bars, I looked up a few recipes and was pretty shocked by what I found. Most magic bars are made with tons, and I mean TONS of processed sugar. Though since I’ve basically made it my life’s work to turn our favorite desserts into healthier ones, I knew I had to get working on a healthier magic bar recipe!

This recipe took quite a few tries, but I ultimately perfected it! I used the same almond flour shortbread crust as my healthy pecan pie bars recipe, and riffed off my healthy vegan caramel sauce for a healthier sweetened condensed milk alternative. I then topped these bars with plenty of coconuts, chopped nuts, and of course – chocolate chips! The end result is a bar just as indulgent as the classic magic bars we all know and love, made with healthier ingredients and a fraction of the sugar. I just know you’re gonna LOVE these!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Naturally Sweetened – No refined sugar, just maple syrup and coconut cream for a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
  • Easy & Quick – Simple ingredients, one bowl for the crust, and a short bake time.
  • Customizable – Easily make them nut-free, keto-friendly, or extra chocolatey!
a healthy gluten-free magic bar with a bite taken out.

What Makes These Magic Bars Healthier?

Traditional magic bars are loaded with processed sugars and condensed milk, but this healthier version swaps in:

  • Almond flour for a grain-free, nutrient-dense crust.
  • Maple syrup instead of refined sugar.
  • Coconut cream for a dairy-free caramel alternative.
  • Dark chocolate chips with minimal added sugar, or opt for a refined sugar-free chocolate chip like these!

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • For Extra Firm Bars – Let them chill in the fridge overnight before slicing.
  • For More Chocolate Flavor – Drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving.
  • For a More Caramel-Like Texture – Use cashew butter instead of almond butter.
two healthy gluten-free magic bars stacked on top of each other.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

Nut-Free Option – Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter and swap the nuts for pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Keto-Friendly Option – Substitute maple syrup with a keto-friendly syrup and use sugar-free chocolate chips.

Refined Sugar-Free – Stick with pure maple syrup and dark chocolate for a naturally sweet treat!

Storage Instructions

Fridge: Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months and thaw before serving.

overhead image of a healthy gluten-free magic bar with chocolate chips on top.
No ratings yet

Healthy Gluten-Free Magic Bars

These healthy magic bars are a better-for-you twist on the classic 7-layer bars! Made with a buttery almond flour crust, a naturally sweetened caramel layer, crunchy nuts, coconut, and melty dark chocolate, these bars are gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free. They’re the perfect treat for when you’re craving something sweet but still healthier.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 16 bars

Equipment

  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan
  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 small saucepan

Ingredients

For the shortbread crust:

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the topping:

  • 1/2 cup coconut cream (the thick white part at the top of a can of full-fat coconut milk)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Add all shortbread crust ingredients to a large bowl and mix to combine. Then, transfer the crust to your prepared baking pan and press the crust down into an even layer over the base of the baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
  • Remove the crust from the oven to cool, and while it cools make the caramel by adding the coconut cream, maple syrup, and almond butter to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk the mixture together and cool for 3-5 minutes, whisking constantly, until the caramel has melted together and slightly thickened.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the caramel to cool slightly, then mix the chopped walnuts or pecans and shredded coconut into the caramel.
  • Pour the caramel mixture over the cooled crust and spread it into an even layer over the crust. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the caramel layer (if you’d like, you can then sprinkle an additional 1-2 tablespoons of shredded coconut and chopped walnuts or pecans over the chocolate chips to make the bars a little prettier), then bake the bars for an additional 20 minutes.
  • Remove the bars from the oven and leave them to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer them to the fridge to completely set for at least one hour. Remove the bars from the fridge, cut into square, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1bar | Calories: 325kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 6.4g | Fat: 27g | Sugar: 13g
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

3 Ingredient Brownies (gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free!)

By
overhead image of 3 ingredient brownies with mini chocolate chips on top.

If you have bananas, peanut butter, and cocoa powder at home then you can make the most delicious 3 ingredient brownies! Something about me is I’m constantly stocking up on bananas. Not only because my toddler LOVES them, but they’re the star ingredient of so many of my healthy recipes. I use them most mornings in my 3 ingredient protein pancakes, then I always save some to make my 4 ingredient banana bread, and any leftovers get frozen for healthy protein smoothies!

Bananas are also the perfect base to this 3 ingredient brownies recipe. They provide structure and a natural sweetness to this gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and totally sugar-free recipe! The only other ingredients you’ll need are peanut butter and unsweetened cocoa powder. Then, grab just one bowl and you’ll be on your way to making the most rich and fudgy brownies that are light and healthy, but still taste indulgent!

the side of a 3 ingredient brownie resting on top of another brownie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: Requires only three pantry staples.
  • Quick and Easy: From mixing to baking, you’ll have brownies ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and contains no added sugars.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Ripeness Matters: Use overripe bananas for optimal sweetness and moisture.
  • Nut Butter Choices: Peanut butter adds a robust flavor, while almond or cashew butter offers milder alternatives. And for a nut-free version, try sunflower seed butter instead!
  • Optional Add-Ins: For extra sweetness, mix in maple syrup or sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking.
3 ingredient brownies on a table stacked on top of each other.

Storage Instructions

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Freeze individual slices for up to a month; thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
overhead image of 3 ingredient brownies with mini chocolate chips on top.
5 from 2 votes

3 Ingredient Brownies (gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free!)

Indulge in these rich, fudgy brownies made with just three simple ingredients: bananas, peanut butter, and cocoa powder. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a quick, healthy, and delicious dessert that's gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and sugar-free. Plus, it all comes together in just one bowl!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 9×4-inch loaf pan

Ingredients

  • 3 overripe bananas about 1 1/2 cups when mashed
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Optional add-ins:

  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup optional, for extra sweetness
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips optional

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, then grease the inside of the pan with oil or butter.
  • Mash the bananas in a large bowl until mostly smooth, then add in the peanut butter, cocoa powder, and maple syrup (if using). Mix everything together until fully combined.
  • Transfer the brownie batter to your prepared baking pan and top with chocolate chips (if using), then bake for 18-20 minutes or until the brownie are just set in the middle.
  • Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1brownie | Calories: 140kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 8g | Sugar: 6g
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

Almond Flour Chocolate Cookies

By
almond flour chocolate cookies on top of each other of a baking sheet.

I love baking with almond flour! It’s this incredible ingredient that create beautiful structure and texture in gluten-free baked goods. I recently revisited my almond flour brownies recipe (OMG so good!) and used almond flour as the base in my healthy gluten-free twix bars recipe. And because I also recently stocked up on almond flour (hello, 4 pound bag of almond flour from Amazon!) I set out to create another delicious dessert recipe where almond flour was the star.

These almond flour double chocolate cookies took me just one try to perfect! I had my dad (the biggest gluten-free skeptic) try these cookies and even he LOVED them. He actually has no clue they’re gluten-free, and I’m sure he’d be absolutely shocked to find out they’re made with almond flour. They’re chewy and fudgy, perfectly sweet, and truly just as delicious as any other cookie recipe – you’ll never guess they’re gluten-free!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • These cookies have a rich, chocolatey flavor with a soft, chewy texture.
  • They’re gluten-free and grain-free, using almond flour for a nutrient-packed base.
  • This recipe is quick and easy to make with minimal cleanup – just one bowl!
an almond flour chocolate cookie split in half.

What You’ll Need to Make Almond Flour Chocolate Cookies

  • Butter & Coconut Oil – Adds moisture and richness, giving the cookies a tender crumb and delicious buttery flavor. Coconut oil enhances texture while adding a slight nuttiness.
  • Brown Sugar & Cane Sugar – Brown sugar provides moisture and chewiness, while cane sugar adds a touch of crispness and sweetness.
  • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and depth to the cookies.
  • Egg – Binds the ingredients and creates structure, helping the cookies rise and hold their shape.
  • Almond Flour – The star ingredient! Provides a gluten-free, grain-free base that’s rich in healthy fats and nutrients. I buy my almond flour in bulk on Amazon!
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds a deep, chocolatey flavor to the cookies.
  • Baking Soda & Salt – Helps the cookies rise while balancing the sweetness.
  • Chocolate Chips – Brings bursts of chocolate in every bite.

How to Make Almond Flour Chocolate Cookies

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, beat together the butter, coconut oil, brown sugar, and cane sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Mix in the vanilla extract and egg until fully combined.
  4. Stir in almond flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until just combined.
  5. Fold in the chocolate chips. Scoop 2-tablespoon balls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them 2-3 inches apart. Flatten slightly with your palm.
  6. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
almond flour chocolate cookie with a bite taken out.

Topping & Mix-In Options

  • Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt before baking for a sweet-salty twist.
  • Swap out chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks or white chocolate for variety.
  • Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular flour?
Yes, but the texture and flavor will change. Regular flour won’t provide the same rich, nutty flavor or gluten-free benefits as almond flour.

Can I make these dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for plant-based butter or additional coconut oil.

Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) as an egg replacement and dairy-free butter.

Can I use coconut sugar to make these refined sugar-free?
Yes! Substitute coconut sugar for both brown and cane sugar to keep the recipe refined sugar-free.

almond flour chocolate cookies on parchment paper.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Don’t overmix the dough – just stir until combined to avoid dense cookies!
  • Let the cookies cool completely before storing to prevent them from getting soggy.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
almond flour chocolate cookies on top of each other of a baking sheet.
5 from 1 vote

Almond Flour Chocolate Cookies

These almond flour chocolate cookies are rich, indulgent, and easy to make with just one bowl. They're gluten-free and grain-free, but just as delicious as any other cookie. These are the perfect treat for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 16 cookies

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 hand or stand mixer
  • 1 large baking sheet

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter softened
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil melted (or an additional 2 tablespoons of butter)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
  • 1/4 cup cane sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 egg at room temperature
  • 1 3/4 cups almond flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chocolate chips I used extra dark chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, beat together the butter, coconut oil, brown sugar, and cane sugar with either a hand or stand mixer for 2-3 minutes.
  • Once the butter mixture is light and fluffy, add in the vanilla extract and egg, and beat again until combined.
  • Add in the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt, this time stirring with a spatula or large spoon until the dough is just combined.
  • Fold the chocolate chips into the batter, then scoop 2 tablespoon-sized balls of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Place each cookie about 2-3 inched apart, and slightly flatten each cookie with the palm of your hand.
    almond-flour-chocolate-cookies-step-3
  • Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes, then let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
    almond-flour-chocolate-cookies-step-4

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 18g | Sugar: 16g
View Post
By