Oh, have I got a treat for you! Dark Chocolate Cups with Raspberry Chia Jam are one of my absolute favorite indulgences. Picture this: a luscious dark chocolate shell filled with a tangy and sweet raspberry chia jam that adds the perfect pop of flavor. The first time I made these was for a friend’s birthday—she had a serious sweet tooth and was always raving about how much she loved chocolate and raspberries together. They were an instant hit, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
Not only are these little cups incredibly delicious, but they’re also surprisingly simple to make! I love how I can whip them up in no time, and they always impress. Plus, with the added health benefits of chia seeds and dark chocolate, you can enjoy them without a hint of guilt (well, maybe just a little). Let’s dive into making these delightful treats!
What’s in Dark Chocolate Cups with Raspberry Chia Jam?
Dark Chocolate: The star of the show! I always go for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for rich flavor and health benefits. It provides antioxidants and can be a mood booster as well!
Raspberries: Sweet, tart, and oh-so-delicious, these berries form the jam that complements the chocolate perfectly. I love using fresh berries in the summer, but frozen works fine too!
Chia Seeds: These little seeds are like magic; they thicken the raspberry mixture and add a nice dose of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, they give that satisfying jammy texture without the need for pectin.
Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that pairs beautifully with the tartness of the raspberries. It’s an easy way to add a touch of sweetness without going overboard.
Vanilla Extract: Just a splash enhances the flavor and brings everything together. I always recommend using pure vanilla extract for the best flavor!
Is Dark Chocolate Cups with Raspberry Chia Jam Good for You?
Absolutely, these delicious chocolate cups have some great health benefits!
Dark Chocolate: It’s loaded with antioxidants and can improve heart health due to its flavonoids. Plus, it may help improve brain function—so that’s a sweet bonus!
Raspberries: Not only are they bursting with flavor, but they’re also high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Eating more berries is a fantastic way to boost your overall health.
Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are powerhouses! They’re packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats. They also help keep you feeling full, which is fantastic for anyone watching their snacking habits.
While indulging in sweets is always fun, moderation is key. Enjoying these chocolate cups as an occasional treat makes them even more special!
Ingredients
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– This recipe makes about 12 chocolate cups, depending on the size of your molds.
How to Make Dark Chocolate Cups with Raspberry Chia Jam?
1. **Melt the Chocolate**: Start by melting the dark chocolate. You can do this in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or using a double boiler on the stove. It should be smooth and glossy.
2. **Prepare the Molds**: Using silicone molds (or mini muffin tins lined with paper cupcake liners), spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into each cup, tilting the mold to coat the sides. Leave some chocolate for the top layer. Place the molds in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes to set.
3. **Make the Raspberry Chia Jam**: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the raspberries, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well and cook until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes). If using frozen raspberries, let them thaw before cooking. Remove from heat and let it cool.
4. **Assemble the Cups**: Once the chocolate shells are firm, remove them from the fridge. Spoon the raspberry chia jam into each cup, filling them about 3/4 full.
5. **Cover with Chocolate**: Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the tops to seal the jam inside. Return to the fridge for another 15-20 minutes to set completely.
6. **Enjoy**: When ready to eat, pop them out of the molds and enjoy your delightful Dark Chocolate Cups with Raspberry Chia Jam!
Creative Twists on This Recipe
– **Nutty Delight**: Add some crushed nuts (like almonds or pistachios) on top of the jam before sealing with chocolate for added crunch.
– **Flavor Variations**: Feel free to substitute the raspberries with other berries—blueberries or strawberries work beautifully!
– **Dairy-Free**: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, make sure your chocolate is confirmed dairy-free and use maple syrup for sweetness.
It’s hard to beat the combination of dark chocolate and raspberry! I encourage you to give these a try—whether for a special occasion or just for a sweet treat at home. If you do make them, please let me know how they turned out. Happy cooking and even happier indulging!
