Easy & Healthy Chocolate Hummus Recipe: Your New Favorite Dessert Dip

Indulge in the creamy, rich, and utterly addicting taste of homemade Chocolate Hummus! This surprisingly healthy snack effortlessly captures the essence of brownie batter, making it an instant staple in your kitchen and a delightful twist on a classic dip.

Have you ever strolled through the grocery store, spotted those intriguing containers of chocolate hummus, and found yourself wondering, “What exactly does chocolate hummus taste like?” You’re not alone! Many people are curious about this unique sweet treat. The simple, delightful answer is: it tastes remarkably like brownie batter. While it might not be an exact replica, it’s undeniably close, offering a rich, chocolatey experience that’s hard to resist.

My first encounter with chocolate hummus was at a friend’s gathering, and I must admit, I approached it with a touch of skepticism. The idea of chickpeas in a dessert seemed a little unorthodox. However, one bite was all it took to turn me into a believer! It doesn’t carry any hint of the savory chickpea flavor you associate with traditional hummus. Instead, you’re greeted with a smooth, velvety texture and a deep, decadent chocolate taste. As a self-proclaimed chocolate lover, I was instantly hooked and knew I had to recreate this magic at home.

This recipe transforms humble chickpeas into a luscious, sweet spread that’s perfect for dipping fruit, crackers, or simply enjoying by the spoonful. It’s an incredibly versatile treat that bridges the gap between a healthy snack and a satisfying dessert, offering a guilt-free way to enjoy your chocolate cravings.

What is Chocolate Hummus?

For the uninitiated, chocolate hummus is a sweet variation of the classic Middle Eastern dip, but with a delightful twist. Instead of savory ingredients like garlic, lemon, and olive oil, this version incorporates cocoa powder, natural sweeteners, and vanilla extract. The base remains the same – chickpeas – which provide an incredibly creamy texture and a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it a surprisingly wholesome option for satisfying your sweet tooth.

The beauty of sweet hummus lies in its ability to mimic popular dessert flavors without all the refined sugars and fats often found in traditional sweets. It’s a clever way to enjoy a rich, decadent taste while still benefiting from nutrient-dense ingredients. If you’ve been searching for a healthy dessert alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor, you’ve just found your new go-to!

Why Make Homemade Chocolate Hummus?

While store-bought chocolate hummus is readily available, making it at home offers several distinct advantages:

• Control Over Ingredients: You dictate the quality and type of ingredients. Choose organic chickpeas, your preferred natural sweetener, and high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor and nutritional profile.
• Customization: Adjust the sweetness level, the intensity of the chocolate, and even the consistency to your exact preference. Want it richer? Add more cocoa. Prefer it thinner? A splash of water or milk does the trick.
• Freshness: Nothing beats the taste of freshly made food. Homemade hummus is vibrant and full of flavor.
• Cost-Effective: Making your own is significantly cheaper than buying pre-made versions, especially if you enjoy it frequently.
• Dietary Needs: Easily adapt the recipe for specific dietary requirements, such as nut-free (using tahini or sunflower seed butter) or different sweetener preferences.

Key Chocolate Hummus Ingredients

This delightful dip relies on a few simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect brownie batter taste and creamy consistency:

• Chickpeas: The foundation of any hummus. You can use canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained thoroughly to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid flavor) or dried beans that you’ve soaked and cooked until tender. They provide the creamy base, fiber, and protein.
• Peanut Butter: Adds a wonderful depth of flavor, richness, and helps create that ultra-smooth texture. For a nut-free alternative, traditional tahini (sesame seed paste) works beautifully and offers a slightly different, but equally delicious, nutty note.
• Maple Syrup: Our natural sweetener of choice, providing a lovely caramel-like undertone. Honey or agave nectar are excellent substitutes if you prefer. These natural options are a healthier alternative to refined sugars.
• Cocoa Powder: The star of the show, delivering that deep, unmistakable chocolate flavor. Opt for unsweetened cocoa powder to control the sweetness of your dip. It also contributes beneficial antioxidants.
• Vanilla Extract: A crucial flavor enhancer that complements the chocolate and brings out the “brownie batter” essence. Don’t skip this!
• Salt: Just a pinch is needed to balance the sweetness and elevate all the other flavors, preventing the dip from tasting flat.
• Water (optional): You might need a tablespoon or two of water to achieve your desired consistency, especially if your chickpeas are very dry or you prefer a thinner dip.

How To Make Chocolate Hummus: A Foolproof Method

Making chocolate hummus is surprisingly easy and quick, especially with the help of a food processor. It’s one of those recipes where the machine does most of the heavy lifting, leaving you with a delicious treat in minutes.

1. Combine All Ingredients: Start by adding all of your measured ingredients – chickpeas, peanut butter (or tahini), maple syrup, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt – directly into the bowl of your food processor or a high-speed blender.
2. Process Until Smooth: Secure the lid and process the mixture. Initially, it will look chunky, but as you continue to process, it will begin to smooth out. Scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. Continue blending for 1-2 minutes, or until the hummus is incredibly smooth and creamy. The longer you process, the silkier the texture will become.
3. Adjust Consistency (If Needed): If you find the mixture is too thick or isn’t blending easily, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired creamy consistency. Be conservative with the water; you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
4. Serve and Enjoy: Once it’s perfectly smooth, transfer your chocolate hummus to a serving bowl. For the best flavor and texture, I recommend chilling it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dip to firm up slightly.

That’s it! In just a few simple steps, you’ve created a decadent, healthy, and utterly irresistible chocolate dip. Homemade hummus truly is one of the easiest and most rewarding things you can whip up in your kitchen.

What To Eat With Chocolate Hummus: Delicious Dipper Ideas

The beauty of chocolate hummus lies in its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with a wide array of dippers, offering both sweet and salty contrasts. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy this delightful dip:

• Graham Crackers: Their slightly sweet and crumbly texture is a match made in heaven for the creamy chocolate.
• Fresh Fruit: Berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries), apple slices, banana slices, and orange segments are all fantastic choices. The natural sweetness and tartness of fruit beautifully complement the rich chocolate.
• Pretzels: For those who love a sweet and salty combination, pretzels are an absolute must. The crunch and saltiness cut through the richness of the chocolate perfectly.
• Animal Crackers: A classic childhood favorite, these add a nostalgic and slightly sweet crunch.
• Nilla Wafers: Their delicate sweetness and crisp texture make them an ideal pairing for a creamy dip.
• Dried Fruit: Dates, dried apricots, or even dried cranberries offer a chewy texture and concentrated sweetness that works well.
• Cookies: Think shortbread, vanilla wafers, or even digestive biscuits for a more grown-up pairing.
• Pita Bread or Tortilla Chips: For a less sweet, more textured option, lightly toasted pita bread or cinnamon sugar-dusted tortilla chips can be surprisingly good.
• Vegetable Sticks (for the adventurous!): While less common, some enjoy chocolate hummus with carrots or celery for an extra health kick and crunchy texture.

Beyond dipping, consider spreading chocolate hummus on toast, bagels, or rice cakes for a quick breakfast or snack. You can also swirl it into oatmeal, use it as a filling for crepes, or dollop it onto pancakes for a truly indulgent (yet still healthier) treat!

Is Chocolate Hummus Good For You? Health Benefits Explained

The short answer is a resounding “yes!” Chocolate hummus stands out as a healthier alternative to many traditional desserts and sweet snacks. Let’s delve into why:

• Rich in Fiber and Protein: The primary ingredient, chickpeas, are a nutritional powerhouse. They are packed with dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety (keeping you feeling full longer), and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Chickpeas also provide a good amount of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
• Natural Sweeteners: This recipe utilizes natural sweeteners like maple syrup (or honey/agave) instead of refined white sugar. While still sugar, these options often come with additional minerals and are generally considered a slightly better choice than highly processed sugars.
• Antioxidants from Cocoa: Unsweetened cocoa powder isn’t just for flavor; it’s also a source of antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which have been linked to various health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving heart health.
• Healthy Fats: Depending on whether you use peanut butter or tahini, you’re incorporating healthy fats into your diet. Peanut butter provides monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, while tahini (from sesame seeds) is rich in healthy fats and minerals like calcium.

However, it’s important to remember that while healthier, it’s still a sweet treat. It shouldn’t be consumed in unlimited quantities. Enjoy it as a satisfying dessert or a balanced snack, mindful of portion sizes. Paired with fresh fruit, it’s an amazing choice that allows you to indulge your sweet cravings while still contributing to your daily nutrient intake. Think of it as a smart dessert decision rather than a health food you’d eat by the bowlful.

Storage Tips for Homemade Chocolate Hummus

Once you’ve whipped up a batch of this delicious chocolate hummus, proper storage will ensure it stays fresh and flavorful for as long as possible. Store your homemade hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will maintain its best quality for about 5-7 days. While the texture might firm up a bit in the fridge, simply give it a good stir before serving, and if needed, add a tiny splash of water to bring it back to your desired consistency. Freezing is generally not recommended for hummus, as it can alter the creamy texture upon thawing.

Variations and Customizations

One of the joys of making chocolate hummus at home is the endless possibilities for customization:

• Nut-Free: As mentioned, use tahini or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
• Different Sweeteners: Experiment with brown sugar, coconut sugar, or date paste for different flavor notes and sweetness levels.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a Mexican hot chocolate twist. Cinnamon also pairs beautifully with chocolate.
• Mint Chocolate: A few drops of food-grade peppermint extract can transform it into a refreshing mint chocolate dip.
• Espresso Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor and add a subtle coffee note.
• Extra Indulgence: Fold in some mini chocolate chips or shredded coconut at the end for added texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Hummus

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, absolutely! If you prefer to cook your own chickpeas from scratch, use about 1.5 to 2 cups of cooked chickpeas in place of one 15-ounce can. Just make sure they are thoroughly cooked and soft for the creamiest texture.

What if my hummus is too thick or too thin?

If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time while processing until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can try adding a few more chickpeas or a tablespoon of cocoa powder, though this is less common.

Does it taste like regular hummus?

Not at all! The savory elements of traditional hummus (garlic, lemon, cumin) are completely absent. Chocolate hummus is purely sweet, creamy, and chocolatey, resembling a dessert dip or frosting.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use maple syrup or agave nectar (and not honey) as your sweetener. Chickpeas, peanut butter/tahini, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract are all plant-based.

How long does it last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade chocolate hummus will stay fresh for about 5-7 days.

This chocolate hummus recipe is genuinely a game-changer. It’s so incredibly easy to make, and I guarantee you’ll have it on repeat once you experience its creamy texture and rich flavor. Personally, I absolutely adore it with crisp apple slices – it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a sweet treat while simultaneously getting in my daily fruit!

While traditional hummus typically uses tahini (sesame seed paste), I opted for peanut butter in this recipe primarily because I love the flavor combination with chocolate. Feel free to use whichever you prefer – both will yield a delicious and perfect chocolate hummus.

More Great Snack Recipes You’ll Love

• Coconut Lime Cheesecake Dip
• Chili’s Salsa
• Peanut Butter Protein Balls
• Frozen Yogurt Cups
• Parmesan Roasted Chickpeas
• Avocado Hummus

5 from 1 vote

Chocolate Hummus

By

Erin Sellin

Chocolate Hummus – creamy, rich, chocolate-y and down right addicting! This healthy snack tastes like brownie batter and will become a staple in your kitchen!

Prep:

5 minutes
mins

Total:

5 minutes
mins

Servings:
6

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Ingredients

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  15 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 
  ▢
  
  
  ¼
  cup
  
  peanut butter
  

• 
  ▢
  
  
  ¼
  cup
  
  maple syrup
  

• 
  ▢
  
  
  ½
  cup
  
  cocoa powder
  

• 
  ▢
  
  
  2
  teaspoons
  
  vanilla extract
  

• 
  ▢
  
  
  ¼
  teaspoon
  
  salt
  

• 
  ▢
  
  
  Chocolate chips for topping,
  optional

Instructions

• Add the chickpeas and all of the other ingredients and place in a food processor. Process until smooth (1-2 minutes usually).
• If it is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water until it is smooth and creamy.
• Pour into a serving bowl and enjoy.

Notes

You can use 1 1/2-2 cups dried chickpeas that are pre-cooked in place of the canned.

Nutrition

Serving:
1
g

|

Calories:
262
kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
39
g

|

Protein:
8
g

|

Fat:
9
g

|

Saturated Fat:
2
g

|

Polyunsaturated Fat:
5
g

|

Sodium:
352
mg

|

Fiber:
6
g

|

Sugar:
21
g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author:

Erin Sellin

Prep Time:

5 minutes
minutes

Total Time:

5 minutes
minutes

Course:
Snack Recipes

Cuisine:
American

Servings:
6

Calories:
262

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