Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you enjoy dark chocolate with complexity and warmth, this recipe is for you. The combination of cocoa and traditional Mexican-inspired spices creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.
You’ll love this recipe because:
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It’s completely sugar-free, making it suitable for low-carb and keto lifestyles
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It requires only a handful of simple ingredients
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There’s no baking involved
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The spice level is customizable
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It stores well and makes a thoughtful homemade gift
Best of all, it comes together quickly and tastes far more impressive than the effort required.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of black pepper
Pinch of fine sea salt
1/4 cup cacao butter, melted
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Liquid stevia or monk fruit sweetener, to taste
Directions
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In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, chili powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, and sea salt until evenly combined.
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Gently melt the cacao butter using a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to prevent overheating.
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Stir the vanilla extract and your preferred amount of liquid sweetener into the melted cacao butter.
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Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and whisk until smooth and fully incorporated. The mixture should be glossy and lump-free.
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Carefully pour the chocolate into silicone molds or a parchment-lined small baking dish.
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Let the chocolate set at room temperature until firm, or place it in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
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Once hardened, remove from molds or cut into pieces and enjoy.
Servings and timing
Servings: Approximately 12–18 small pieces
Prep time: 10 minutes
Setting time: 20–40 minutes
Total time: About 30–50 minutes
Variations
Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
Orange Infused: Stir in a small amount of finely grated orange zest for a bright citrus contrast.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds into the molds before the chocolate sets.
Mocha Twist: Add a pinch of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.
Coconut Version: Replace part of the cacao butter with coconut oil for a slightly softer texture and subtle coconut note.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Keep the chocolate in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days in a cool environment. If your kitchen is warm, store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: This chocolate is meant to be enjoyed as-is. If melting for recipes, gently warm using a double boiler and stir until smooth.
FAQs
Can I use coconut oil instead of cacao butter?
Yes, coconut oil can be used as a substitute, though the chocolate will be softer and may need refrigeration to stay firm.
Is this chocolate keto-friendly?
Yes, when sweetened with keto-approved sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, it fits well within a keto lifestyle.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level is mild with a subtle warmth. You can increase or decrease the chili powder to suit your taste.
Can I use regular cocoa powder?
Yes, unsweetened cocoa powder works perfectly in this recipe.
Why is my chocolate grainy?
Graininess can occur if the ingredients are not fully combined or if moisture gets into the mixture. Whisk thoroughly and avoid water contact.
Can I add sweetener after mixing?
It’s best to dissolve the sweetener into the melted cacao butter first to ensure even distribution.
Do I need chocolate molds?
No, you can pour the mixture into a lined baking dish and break it into rustic pieces once set.
How do I make the chocolate sweeter?
Gradually add more liquid sweetener, tasting as you go, until it reaches your preferred sweetness.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Simply double all ingredients and use additional molds or a larger dish.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, all ingredients are plant-based, making it naturally vegan.
Conclusion
Sugar-free Mexican-spiced dark chocolate is a simple yet luxurious treat that combines bold cocoa with warming spices for a unique flavor experience. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s perfect for anyone seeking a refined chocolate indulgence without added sugar. Once you try it, this homemade version may become your new favorite way to enjoy dark chocolate.
