Chocolate Avocado Mousse: A Healthy Valentine Treat

A long time ago, I used to make avocado mousse for myself for a healthy delicious treat. Truthfully, I forgot about it and haven't made it in years. I decided to bring it back this year for Valentine's Day. 

It's made without refined sugars, it provides healthy fat, and the delicious taste of cocoa. It's a plant-based and dairy-free decadent creamy treat that the entire family will enjoy especially when topped with fresh berries. 

Raspberries are my favorite.

I love little heart bowls which I only tend to use on Valentine's Day!

So go ahead and indulge- it's good for you, easy to prepare and will make a really pretty, yet healthy treat for Valentine's Day or any day for that matter. 

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or more to taste
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• A pinch of sea salt
• Optional: 1-2 tablespoons of melted dark chocolate (for a richer chocolate flavor)

Toppings (optional):

• Fresh berries (such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)
• Chopped nuts (such as walnuts, almonds or pistachios)
• Shredded coconut
• Extra dark chocolate shavings

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Avocados: Cut and scoop out the flesh from the ripe avocados into a food processor or high-speed blender. Make sure the avocados are soft and ripe for the creamiest texture.

2. Blend the Ingredients: Add the cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, almond milk, and a pinch of sea salt to the food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed to make sure everything is well incorporated.

3. Adjust Consistency and Sweetness: Taste the mousse and adjust sweetness by adding more maple syrup if desired. If you want a thicker texture, you can add a bit more avocado or a splash more almond milk. For a richer flavor, stir in the melted dark chocolate.

4. Chill the Mousse: Transfer the mousse to serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes to allow it to firm up slightly and chill.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, top with fresh berries, chopped nuts, coconut, or extra chocolate shavings for a delightful touch.

   

   Why You'll Love It:

• Creamy & Decadent: The avocados create a rich and smooth mousse without the need for dairy or oil.
• Naturally Sweetened: Maple syrup gives just the right amount of sweetness without refined sugars.
• Healthy: Packed with healthy fats from avocados, antioxidants from cocoa, and plant-based goodness, this dessert is both satisfying and nourishing. 

My Notes: 

Why avocado is a health conscious choice

• Avocados are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which is a factor in supporting heart health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels and promote good cholesterol 
• These healthy fats may also help improve nutrient absorption, particularly fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. 
• Additionally, the fats in avocados contribute to long-lasting energy, may aid in reducing inflammation, and may support healthy skin and brain function, making them a consideration for a nutritious and versatile addition to a balanced diet.