8 Best Vegan Cocoa Recipes For Your Kids In 2024

8 Best Vegan Cocoa Recipes For Your Kids

These temperatures are not used to roast cocoa beans to make cocoa powder and nibs. They undergo low-temperature processing before being ground into a powder. Cocoa powder is bitter but contains more of the original nutritional value. I'll share some delicious vegan cocoa recipes. Let’s try …

Nutrition Fact Of Cocoa

Two tablespoons of cacao powder contain:

Calories: 130
Protein: 7 grams
Fat: 6 grams
Carbohydrates: 13 grams
Fiber: 8 grams

Health Benefits Of Cocoa Powder

1. Reduce Blood Pressure

Dark chocolate made from cocoa powder and other forms of cocoa may be able to lower blood pressure.

The first population to experience this effect was the cocoa-drinking islanders of Central America, whose blood pressure was significantly lower than that of their non-coco-drinking mainland relatives.

Nitric oxide levels in the blood are thought to be increased by the flavanols in cocoa, which can improve blood vessel function and lower blood pressure.

In 35 experiments, according to one review, patients received between 0.05 and 3.7 ounces (1.4 and 105 grams) of cocoa products or between 30 and 1,218 mg of flavanols. It was discovered that cocoa caused a 2 mmHg reduction in blood pressure, which was modest but significant.

Additionally, the impact was greater in older individuals compared to younger individuals and in those who already had high blood pressure than in those who did not.

However, it's crucial to remember that processing greatly reduces the number of flavonols, so the effects will probably not be noticeable from the typical chocolate bar.

2. Reduce Risk Of Cancer

As was previously mentioned, cacao beans are rich in antioxidants. According to registered dietitian and owner of Louloudi Nutrition Annamaria Louloudis, M.S., R.D.N., “Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which inhibits their activity.”

High levels of free radicals can cause oxidative stress and cell damage, which are major contributors to the emergence of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. According to Louloudis, cacao contains polyphenols, a class of plant compounds called “antioxidants such as epicatechin, catechin, and procyanidins.

“It has been demonstrated that these chemicals have anti-cancer properties in laboratory studies on cancer. For instance, a lab study in 2020 revealed that epicatechin could kill breast cancer cells, and in 2016, cacao procyanidins could kill ovarian cancer cells.

3. Reduces Inflammation

The anti-inflammatory properties of cocoa beans have been reported in a Pain and Therapy article. Chronic inflammation brought on by oxidative stress increases the risk of illnesses like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Cacao's antioxidants fight oxidative stress, which can also aid in reducing inflammation.

Furthermore, these antioxidants can lessen the production of pro-inflammatory proteins known as cytokines, lowering your risk of inflammation in the first place, according to Bansari Acharya, M.A., R.D.N., a registered dietitian nutritionist at Food Love.

4. Avoid Tooth Decay

Theobromine, a substance in cacao beans, has undergone tests that indicate it may be more effective than fluoride at preventing cavities and tooth decay. This is because these chemicals have antibacterial properties. By battling plaque and hardening tooth enamel, these chemicals lower the risk of tooth decay. Substitute cacao nibs for potentially toxic fluoride for strong, healthy teeth as a snack.

5. Improve Gut Health

A Nutrients article claims that the polyphenols in cocoa beans function as prebiotics. This means they “feed” your gut's healthy bacteria, promoting their growth and well-being, which can help you avoid short-term and long-term digestive issues. Polyphenols may simultaneously combat the bad bacteria in your gut by preventing their growth. Together, these processes maintain the gut's microbiome, which is necessary for fundamental processes like immunity and metabolism.

6. Support Cardiovascular

Theobromine and flavonols in cacao are highly concentrated, which is largely why it can lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. Minerals like zinc and potassium are essential for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. In addition to raising HDL (the “good” cholesterol), cacao can lower blood pressure, enhance blood flow, prevent blood clots, and guard against LDL oxidation. According to this study, eating dark chocolate more than five times per week reduced the risk of heart disease by 57%.

7. Boosts The Quality of Sleep

The stress you are under can often affect how well you sleep. Similar to adaptogenic herbs, cacao can be both energizing and calming, giving you the right balance of each. Due to its magnesium content and minute amounts of tryptophan, it can lower blood pressure (insomniacs frequently have higher nighttime blood pressure) and lessen the effects of anxiety (another thing keeping many of us up at night). Additionally, theobromine may help people sleep for longer periods despite being a mild stimulant.

8. Control Weight

Contrary to popular belief, eating cocoa, even chocolate, may aid in weight management.

It is believed that cocoa may be beneficial because it controls how much energy is used, decreases appetite and inflammation, and increases feelings of fullness and fat oxidation.

Although the former group consumed more calories and fat, a population study discovered that those who consumed chocolate more frequently had a lower BMI than those who did not.

In addition, a weight loss study using low-carbohydrate diets discovered that those who received 42 grams, or 1.5 ounces, of 81% cocoa chocolate every day lost weight more quickly than those who received the standard diet.

However, other studies have shown that eating chocolate makes you gain weight. However, many did not distinguish between the types of chocolate they ate, although dark chocolate has advantages that white and milk chocolate do not.

It seems that cocoa and products containing cocoa may aid in weight loss or weight maintenance, but more research is required.

Vegan Cocoa Recipes

1. Cocoa Vegan Chocolate Fudge

Bring this quick and simple Nut-Free Raw Vegan Chocolate Fudge to your upcoming social event with confidence that just about anyone can enjoy it.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Total time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients

Sunflower seed butter: ¼ cup
Coconut butter/paste: ⅟₆ cup or coconut oil, melted
Cocoa powder: 6 teaspoon
Date paste: ¼ cup
Shredded coconut: ½ cup
Vanilla bean powder: ¼ teaspoon

Method

Melt the coconut butter (or oil) in a double boiler or a dehydrator. Blend in the sunflower seed butter after adding it.
Mix thoroughly before adding the cocoa powder, date paste (or liquid sweetener), and vanilla bean powder.
Mix in the coconut shavings until thoroughly mixed. Place the pressed material in a suitable mould and freeze it for two hours.
Remove the mould, then cut the cake into bite-sized pieces. Keep in the refrigerator as long as possible.

2. Cocoa Vegan Chocolate Cookies

Want something sweet and chocolatey but don't want to feel bad? Try allergen-free, five-ingredient, nut-free raw vegan chocolate cookies.

Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 12 minutes | Total time: 32 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients

Shredded coconut: 2¼ cups
Cocoa powder: ¼ cup
Vanilla bean powder: 1 teaspoon
Medjool dates: 1½ cups
Salt: 1 pinch

Method

Using a few quick pulses, combine the coconut, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt in a food processor.
When the mixture clumps, add the pitted dates and continue until the dates are finely chopped.
Using a cookie cutter or egg ring, press into cookie shapes.
Dehydrate for three hours at 40–45°C (or until firm on the outside).
Turn them over and dehydrate for an additional three hours or until the desired texture is achieved.

3. Vegan Cocoa Chocolate Easter Eggs

With these raw vegan chocolate Easter eggs, you can participate in guilt-free festivities and bring joy and healthy eating back to Easter.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes | Total time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12

Ingredients

Cocoa butter: ¾ cup, melted
Agave nectar: ¼ cup
Cocoa powder: ⅓ cup
Vanilla bean powder: ¼ teaspoon
Salt: ⅟₆₄ teaspoon (0.08g), finely ground

Method

Melt cocoa butter in a dehydrator or over a double boiler at a temperature of about 40–45°C.
Salt should be finely ground (e.g. in a mortar and pestle).
Cocoa butter is given agave nectar.
Salt, vanilla, and cocoa powder should be combined with the agave and butter.
Until smooth, whisk.
When the chocolate reaches about 31°C, continue swirling and whisking.
Dispense into moulds. Put solid Easter eggs you've made in the refrigerator to set.
When producing hollow Easter eggs, wait until the chocolate on the mould's exterior starts solidifying. Remove any extra chocolate with a spoon, then use the spoon to ensure the mould's inside is completely coated.
Refrigerate until completely set. Release the chocolate Easter eggs from the mould.
Put delicious gifts inside the hollow eggs.
Combine the halves by using excess melted chocolate as “glue.” Keep chilled or at room temperature.

4. Cocoa Peanut Butter Energy Balls

The recipe has it all: it's simple, delicious, packed with protein, and healthy. These cocoa peanut butter energy balls are the perfect pick-me-up, thanks to their only five simple ingredients!

Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Total time: 15 minutes | Servings: 14

Ingredients

Pitted dates: 2 cups
Oats: 1 cup
Raw Cocoa powder: 2 heaping tablespoons
Peanut butter: 2 tablespoons
Pinch of salt

Method

As simple as throwing everything into a food processor.
The oats can be blended first, and the remaining ingredients can be added.
The mixture will be ready to form balls once it has been processed into a ball in the food processor.
You may have them made in any size you choose! Then put it in the refrigerator after storing it in an airtight container. They could persist for seven days!

5. Cocoa Vanilla Swiss Roll

Despite their name, Swiss rolls are believed to have come from Austria. They are a delectable treat fit for any celebration. The outer roll is made from dates and almonds and is stuffed with cashew cream filling. This raw version can be enjoyed by many.

Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 35 minutes | Total time: 40 minutes | Servings: 12

Ingredients For The Cocoa Dough

Ground almonds: 1½ cups
Raw Cocoa powder: ¼ cup
Maple syrup or dates: ¼
Himalayan sea: 2 pinches
A pinch of cinnamon
Virgin coconut oil: ¼ cup melted
Water: 2 tablespoons, as needed

For Vanilla Dough:

Cashews: 1 cup, soaked overnight
Maple syrup or dates: ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon to taste
Vanilla seeds: 1 stick
Coconut or almond milk: ¼ cup
Lime juice: 1 lime

Method

All the ingredients for the cocoa dough should be placed in a food processor and processed until smooth.
On a flat surface lay a sheet of kitchen paper. The dough should be rolled into a ball with your hands; then, it should be as flat as you can. Roll out the parchment paper with a rolling pin into a flat shape after placing another piece of parchment paper on top.
Cut the paper's edges with a knife after removing it. You need a big rectangle. In a food processor, combine the soaked nuts with the vanilla dough. After that, whisk in the other ingredients to create a smooth texture. After 20 minutes in the fridge to firm up, spread the dough over the chocolate layer with a spatula and tidy up any corners.
Roll the dough carefully, then put it in the freezer for about 20 minutes. Allow it remains for a further ten minutes before slicing and serving.

6. Cocoa Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies

These grain-free Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies are the ideal marriage of a fudgy brownie and a cheesecake flavoured with pumpkin! Friends, the fudge factor in this situation, cannot be denied. These brownies are possibly the most delicious, gooey, and fudgy brownies ever made.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 35 minutes | Servings: 12

Ingredients For The Brownies

Almond flour: ½ cup
Cocoa powder: ½ cup
Sea salt: ¼ teaspoon
Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
Pumpkin, canned: ½ cup
Almond butter, creamy: ¼ cup
Ground flaxseed: 1 tablespoon
Water: 3 tablespoons
Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
Maple syrup: ⅓ cup

Ingredients For The Cheesecake Swirl

Pumpkin, canned: ¼ cup
Dairy-free cream cheese: 2 tablespoons
Coconut sugar: 1-2 tablespoons
Pumpkin pie spice: 1 teaspoon

Method

Set the oven to 350°F. An 8×8 baking dish should be lined with parchment paper.
The ingredients for the cheesecake swirl should be thoroughly blended in a small basin. If necessary, taste and adjust the sweetener. Place aside.
Combine the flax egg, pumpkin, almond butter, vanilla extract, and maple syrup in a big bowl. Add the baking powder, sea salt, cocoa powder, and almond flour. Stir everything together thoroughly.
The batter should be poured into the baking pan. Add spoonfuls of cheesecake batter on top of the brownie batter. Swirl the cheesecake mixture into the brownie batter with a knife.
Brownies should be baked for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
After letting cool, cut into 9 to 12 bars.

7. Vegan Hot Chocolate Nutella French Toast

Despite using healthier ingredients, Hot Chocolate French Toast is a decadent breakfast combination that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Gluten-free, vegan, and simple to prepare!

Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes | Total time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients For The Hot Chocolate Mix

Cocoa powder: 1 tablespoon
Soy milk: ½ cup
Ripe banana, peeled: 1
Maple syrup: 2 teaspoons

Ingredients For The Toast

Slices of sourdough bread: 6
Coconut oil for frying (approx. 1-2 tablespoons)

Ingredients For The Vegan Nutella

Crunchy hazelnut butter: 3 tablespoons (I use Meridian)
Cocoa powder: 1 tablespoon
Maple syrup: 1 tablespoon

Method

Begin by making the vegan version of Nutella by combining all the ingredients in a small cup. On three of the bread slices, spread.
Next, make the “hot chocolate” mix by combining all the ingredients in a blender and processing until completely smooth.
Give the bread slices, including those with “Nutella” already smeared, a few minutes to soak on each side. They need to be soaked quite well.
Put the sandwiches together by taking one slice of bread with “Nutella” and one without, both wet, and sandwiching them together. In a big frying pan, warm a little coconut oil. The sandwich should be fried for about a minute on each side.
Carry out this procedure three times to make three Hot Chocolate “Nutella” French Toast Sandwiches.

8. Cocoa Salted Rosemary Brownie Batter Oatmeal

This salted rosemary brownie batter oatmeal is perfect if you enjoy chocolate and rosemary. It is comparable to eating dessert for breakfast. The plentiful breakfast that will tempt you to rise before your alarm is brownie batter oatmeal.

Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes | Total time: 50 minutes | Servings: 1

Ingredients

Dairy-free milk: ¾ cup
Dates: 2-3 chopped
Quick cook steel cut oats: ¼ cup
Grated yellow squash or zucchini: ⅓ cup
Vanilla extract: ½ teaspoon
Cocoa powder: 1 rounded tablespoon
Pinch of salt
Minced fresh rosemary: 1 teaspoon
Pinch of coarse salt for topping

Ingredients For The Toppings

Chocolate nut butter: 1-2 tablespoons
Handful semi-sweet chocolate chips

Method

Add oats and simmer after bringing liquid and dates to a boil. (Add a teaspoon of flax or chia seeds if you want to right now.)
Add grated squash or zucchini. Sometimes stir.
Add salt, cocoa powder and vanilla essence when more liquid has been absorbed. (If using, add maple syrup at this time.) Stir. Taste, and if additional maple syrup is required, add it.
Stir in fresh rosemary and transfer the oatmeal to a bowl after you are satisfied with the consistency.
Add some more milk, coarse salt, and any more seasonings on top.

Conclusion

For thousands of years, cocoa has captivated the world, and today, chocolate is a significant component of modern cuisine.

A few health advantages of cocoa include reduced inflammation, better heart and brain health, better blood sugar and weight management, and healthy teeth and skin.

It's nourishing and straightforward to incorporate in novel ways into your diet. If you want to maximize the health benefits, use dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa or non-alkalized cocoa powder.

If you're going to use chocolate, keep in mind that it still contains significant amounts of sugar and fat, so eat it in moderation and alongside a healthy, balanced diet.

I trust you enjoyed this article about the 8 Best Vegan Cocoa Recipes For Your Kids. Please stay tuned for more blog posts to come shortly. Take care!

JeannetteZ

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