Description

Simple Joys and Chocolate Cravings is an easy-to-make chocolate treat recipe that combines comfort, ease, and rich chocolate flavor. Perfect for snacks, gifts, or desserts, this versatile recipe uses straightforward steps and customizable ingredients to satisfy your sweet tooth quickly and deliciously.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

High-quality chocolate (dark, semi-sweet, or milk) – about 200g (7 oz)
Butter or coconut oil – 100g (7 tbsp)
Sugar or natural sweeteners (e.g., honey, maple syrup, stevia) – 100g (1/2 cup)
Flour or gluten-free flour alternative – 100g (3/4 cup)
Vanilla extract – 1 tsp

Optional Add-ins

Nuts (chopped) – 50g (1/3 cup)
Dried fruit (e.g. cherries, raspberries) – 50g (1/3 cup)
Spices (cinnamon, chili, or cardamom) – 1/4 tsp or to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients: Gather your chocolate, butter or coconut oil, sugar or sweetener, flour, and vanilla extract. Chop any nuts or dried fruits if you plan to use them. Prepare your baking pans or molds for the treats.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter: Gently melt the chocolate and butter (or coconut oil) together over low heat on the stove or in a microwave using short bursts, stirring frequently until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients: Add sugar (or natural sweetener), flour (or gluten-free alternative), and vanilla extract to the melted chocolate mixture. Stir gently until the batter is uniform and smooth.
Step 4: Add Extras and Shape: Fold in any optional nuts, dried fruits, or spices to add texture and flavor. Pour or spoon the mixture into prepared pans or molds, smoothing the top as needed.
Step 5: Bake or Chill: For baked treats like brownies, bake in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes until just set. For no-bake versions like fudge, refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.

Notes

Use high-quality chocolate for best flavor and texture.
Do not over-mix the batter to maintain tenderness.
Watch bake time carefully; slightly underbaking yields a gooey center.
Allow treats to cool completely before slicing or serving.
Adjust sugar and add-ins to your preferred sweetness and texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (baking) or 2 hours (chilling)
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking or No-Bake
Cuisine: International

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece (about 30g)
Calories: 180
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 20mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: chocolate dessert, easy chocolate treats, gluten free sweets, no bake fudge, homemade brownies, customizable chocolate snacks