There’s something truly magical about chocolate bars. They evoke nostalgia, comfort, and a sense of joy. I remember the first time I made my own chocolate bars at home; the process was so simple yet incredibly satisfying. It was a rainy afternoon, and I decided to experiment with a plant-based recipe that would leave everyone in awe, even the skeptics. These vegan chocolate bars are rich, creamy, and made with minimal ingredients, proving that indulgence can be guilt-free!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup coconut oil
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup (or agave syrup)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts, dried fruits, or vegan chocolate chips for added texture

Instructions

Creating your own chocolate bars is a delightful experience that only requires a few steps. Follow along!

Start by melting the coconut oil in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally until it becomes completely liquid.

Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat and sift in the cocoa powder. Whisk until thoroughly combined, ensuring there are no lumps. The mixture will start to become glossy and rich.

Add the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt to the chocolate mixture. Continue to whisk until everything is well blended and smooth. The sweetness can be adjusted to your taste; feel free to add more maple syrup if you like it sweeter.

If you’re adding chopped nuts, dried fruits, or vegan chocolate chips, fold them into the chocolate mixture now, distributing them evenly.

Line a square baking dish (about 8×8 inches) with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Place the dish in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate has completely set and hardened.

Once set, remove the chocolate from the dish using the parchment paper. Cut into squares or bars as desired.

These decadent vegan chocolate bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks—if they last that long! They are perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a little self-care.

Enjoy the rich flavors and texture of these homemade chocolate bars, and relish in the joy of creating something delicious and plant-based. Each bite is a reminder that treating yourself can also mean nourishing your body!