Chocolate Dessert Bites

After Dinner Chocolates:

Chocolate has rightfully earned its title as the ultimate decadent dessert ingredient. Me? I looove it. These chocolate dessert bites are the perfect sweet chocolate treat.

Chocolate, with its rich, velvety texture and irresistible flavour, is truly a universal treat that has captured the hearts of people all over the world.

Universal sweet treats- simple yet alluring

Even for someone who doesn’t typically indulge in sweets, like myself, there’s something undeniably tempting about chocolate.

Chocolate has a way of transcending the usual cravings and appealing to almost everyone, regardless of their usual preferences.

There’s a reason why chocolate is often associated with celebrations, comfort, and indulgence—it has a unique ability to bring joy with every bite.

Chocolate—The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser

The key to these chocolate dessert bites is in the presentation. By putting in just a little extra effort to make them look beautiful, you can elevate them from a simple treat to a dessert that stands out.

Whether you garnish them with a sprinkle of sea salt, a drizzle of caramel, or fruit or nuts, these chocolate bites will look as good as they taste.

In the end, chocolate is more than just a dessert—it’s a universally loved treat that can bring a touch of decadence to any occasion.

Even if you’re not a habitual sweet eater, chocolate has a way of drawing you in with its rich flavour and comforting qualities.

A Sweet Conclusion: Mini Chocolate Desserts

When you’re hosting a social get-together, one of the most important aspects is ensuring your guests leave with a sense of satisfaction and contentment.

A great way to achieve this is by adding a chocolate treat at the end of the event. It’s a simple gesture that can elevate the entire dining experience and leave a lasting impression.

These chocolate dessert bites are the perfect way to showcase the elegance and allure of chocolate, without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ridiculously simple to prepare, yet they offer a touch of sophistication that goes beyond merely breaking up a bar of chocolate.

The beauty of these bites lies in their balance—simple enough to make, but refined enough to impress.

If you’re serving appetisers at your gathering, these chocolate dessert bites are a fitting finale. They complement a light and savoury start with a rich, sweet conclusion, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

The small, bite-sized portions are ideal for guests who want just a taste of something sweet without feeling overwhelmed.

Natural Mood Lifter

Chocolate most definitely improves mood as it increases Dopamine (feel good hormone) levels by 50%!

The next time you’re planning a social event, consider adding these simple yet sophisticated chocolate dessert bites to your menu.

These Chocolate Dessert Bites are sure to be a hit with your guests and provide the perfect sweet ending to your gathering.

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Dessert Chocolates

(Serves 12 Prep 30 Mins)

You Will Need:

Cupcake liners: You can purchase small, medium and large cupcake liners. I have used medium-fluted liners as they leave an interesting texture around your chocolates.

Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate is a luxurious and rich form of chocolate that contains a high percentage of cocoa solids, usually ranging from 50% to 90%.

Unlike milk chocolate, dark chocolate has little to no milk solids, resulting in a more intense and slightly bitter flavour. It’s not a deal breaker, so for this recipe, you can choose dark or milk chocolate to suit your preference.

If you use block chocolate, break it into pieces before you microwave. When melted down with coconut oil, the chocolate becomes smooth and glossy, making it a perfect base for desserts.

Coconut Oil: In desserts, coconut oil is often used as a healthier alternative to butter or other oils, adding a delicate coconut aroma and flavour to the dish.

The flavour is not overbearing, so it won’t spoil the chocolate taste. It also helps in achieving a smooth, silky consistency when melting the chocolate making it able to be easily poured.

Macadamia Nuts: Macadamia nuts are creamy, buttery nuts native to Australia but are available worldwide. They are a perfect pairing for chocolate, adding a buttery crunch. I you are more inclined to salty foods, you can buy salted or add salt.

Coconut Flakes: Any sort of coconut is ok to use, whether it is shredded, dessicated or flaked but I find the texture of coconut flakes more appealing for bite-size desserts as they give a more decadent visual allure.

Toasting the flakes brings out their natural sweetness and adds a golden-brown colour that’s visually appealing but it is not necessary. I think balancing flavour & texture is key.

Raspberries: Raspberries, known for their sweet-tart flavour and juicy texture, are a popular fruit in desserts because they add a burst of freshness and a pop of colour.

Raspberries pair exceptionally well with chocolate, as their acidity balances the richness of the chocolate and can be used fresh, or freeze-dried.

Freeze-dried strawberries: Freeze-dried strawberries are strawberries that have been dehydrated through a special process that removes moisture while preserving the fruit’s natural flavour, colour, and nutrients.

The result is a crunchy, intensely flavoured fruit that can be crumbled or powdered and added to desserts for a burst of strawberry flavour & colour.

Freeze-dried strawberries are often used in chocolate recipes to add a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate.

They can be mixed into the chocolate itself or used as a topping for visual appeal and a crunchy texture.

Slivered almonds: Slivered almonds are almonds that have been blanched (removing the skin) and then cut into thin, uniform slivers.

They are often used in baking and cooking for their crunchy texture and mild, nutty flavour. Once again they add flavour & texture.

There are many options for flavours and toppings that you could use in you chocolate. It’s nice to present options, so I would suggest 2 or 3 flavours.

Instructions:

1: Melt the chocolate

• Combine chocolate & cocnut oil: Place the chocolate and coconut oil into a microwave-safe jug or bowl. Ensure that the jug is large enough to allow easy stirring without spilling. The coconut oil will help achieve a glossy finish and smooth texture.
• Melt the Chocolate: Heat the chocolate and coconut oil in the microwave on high for 30 seconds. Remove the jug from the microwave and give the mixture a thorough stir. This helps to distribute the heat evenly and prevents the chocolate from burning.
• Repeat Process: Return the jug to the microwave and continue heating in 30-second intervals. After each interval, remove the jug and stir the chocolate mixture. Repeat this process until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. This gradual melting technique ensures that the chocolate melts evenly without scorching.

2: Prepare the cupcake liners

• Arrange the Liners: While the chocolate is melting, prepare your silicone mini muffin tray by placing 12 fluted cupcake liners in the tray’s cavities. The silicone tray is ideal because it allows for easy removal of the chocolates once they are set. Using the liners in the cupcake tray allows the liners to maintain form when you pour the chocolate in.
• Pour the Chocolate: Once your chocolate is fully melted and silky smooth, carefully pour it into the prepared cupcake liners. Aim to distribute the chocolate evenly among the liners. You can use a spoon or a small measuring cup for more control during pouring.

3: Add the toppings

• Top with Fruit and Nuts: Now, it’s time to get creative with your toppings. Choose a variety of fruits and nuts, such as raspberries, freeze-dried strawberries, slivered almonds, macadamia nuts, and coconut flakes. Gently press your selected toppings into the melted chocolate in each liner. The combination of these ingredients will add flavour, texture, and visual appeal to your chocolates.

4: Set the chocolate

1. Refrigerate the Chocolates: Once you’ve added your toppings, place the tray in the refrigerator to allow the chocolates to set. This process should take about 30 minutes. The chocolate will harden as it cools, encasing the fruit and nuts.
2. Check the Chocolates: After 30 minutes, check to see if the chocolates have fully set. They should be firm to the touch and no longer shiny.

5: Arrange the chocolates

1. Remove from Wrappers: Once the chocolates are set, carefully remove them from the cupcake liners. The fluted edges of the liners will leave a beautiful pattern on the chocolates, making them look visually appealing.
2. Arrange and Serve: Arrange the chocolates on a serving platter.

Serve & Enjoy!

Helpful Hints

• There are many ways to decorate or flavour these chocolates. I think these fruit & nuts work well together. Garnish how you like.

• Placing the cupcake liners in a mini muffin tin holes, will ensure that when you fill the liners with chocolate, they don’t lose their form.

• Using a little coconut oil with the chocolate helps to melt the chocolate, keep it smooth & pourable without burning or drying it out in the microwave.

• Some alternative garnishes for chocolate dessert bites could include Turkish delight, toasted mini Marshmallows, toasted coconut, popcorn, caramel chews, chilli flakes.

Chocolate Bites

Recipe

(Serves 12 Prep 40 Mins)

Ingredients

• Dark Chocolate melts
• 2 Tbsp Coconut oil 
• Handful Macadamia Nuts
• 1 Tbsp Coconut Flakes
• ½ doz Raspberries
• 1 Tbsp Freeze-dried Strawberries
• 1 Tbsp Slivered Almonds

Method

1. In a microwave safe jug, add chocolate & Coconut oil
2. Heat in Microwave for 30 seconds on high, then stir
3. Repeat in 30 sec increments, until the chocolate is completely melted & smooth
4. Place 12 fluted cupcake liners in a silicone mini muffin tray
5. Pour the chocolate evenly into the cupcake liners
6. Top each chocolate with fruit & nuts
7. Refrigerate until the chocolate is set (approx 30 mins)
8. Remove the chocolates from the wrapper
9. Serve & Enjoy!

Wine Pairing Suggestions:

Port or Zinfandel: The rich, slightly bitter taste of dark chocolate pairs superbly with a sweet, fortified wine like Port. Port’s dark fruit notes and sweetness balance the intensity of the chocolate. Alternatively, a bold Zinfandel, with its rich berry flavours and spicy undertones, complements the deep, complex flavours of dark chocolate.

Chenin Blanc or Sparkling Wine: The tropical flavours of coconut pair beautifully with a light, fruity Chenin Blanc, which often has notes of apple, pear, and honey. A crisp sparkling wine or Champagne also works well, cutting through the richness of the coconut oil and providing a refreshing contrast to the dessert’s texture.

Chardonnay or Viognier: The buttery, creamy texture of macadamia nuts pairs well with a rich, full-bodied Chardonnay, especially one that has been aged in oak, as it often has buttery, nutty undertones. Viognier, with its lush texture and hints of peach and honeysuckle, also complements the creaminess of macadamia nuts.

Pinot Noir or Rosé: The bright, tart flavours of raspberries are beautifully complemented by the light, fruity notes of a Pinot Noir, which often has raspberry and cherry flavours. A dry Rosé, with its delicate fruitiness and crisp acidity, also pairs well with the tartness of the raspberries, offering a refreshing balance.

Moscato d’Asti: Moscato d’Asti, with its sweet, fruity profile and low alcohol content, also complements the strawberry flavour while keeping the palate light and refreshing.

Spotlight

Chocolate

Chocolate, the sweet indulgence that has captured hearts and tantalised taste buds for centuries, is much more than just a treat. It’s a symbol of celebration, and a versatile ingredient that transcends cultures and cuisines. Chocolate holds a special place in the world of food.

Chocolate’s journey from ancient civilizations to modern kitchens is as rich and complex as the flavour itself.

Origins

Originating from the cacao tree (Theobroma cacao), chocolate was first discovered by the ancient Olmecs of Southern Mexico around 1500 B.C & was later embraced by the Mayans and Aztecs, who considered it a sacred food.

They enjoyed a bitter drink made from ground cacao beans, which was believed to have divine properties and was often used in rituals and as currency.

It wasn’t until the 16th century that chocolate made its way to Europe, where it was sweetened and transformed into the delicious confection we know today.

Chemistry

The innovation of chocolate-making techniques over the centuries, from the creation of milk chocolate to the development of intricate chocolate sculptures, has only deepened our love for this versatile ingredient.

The allure of chocolate is not just in its taste but also in its chemistry. Chocolate contains over 300 different compounds, including theobromine and phenylethylamine, which can affect mood and trigger feelings of pleasure and happiness.

Healthy in moderation

The smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture is due to cocoa butter, a unique fat that melts just below body temperature, creating that satisfying mouthfeel.

Dark chocolate, with its high concentration of cocoa solids, is rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which are known to have heart-healthy benefits.

This makes dark chocolate not only a decadent treat but also a potential ally in promoting good health when consumed in moderation.

Sustainable future

As we move towards a more sustainable future, the chocolate industry is also evolving.

Ethical sourcing, fair trade practices, and organic production are becoming increasingly important to consumers who want to enjoy their chocolate guilt-free.

Artisanal chocolate makers are leading the way by focusing on quality, transparency, and the environmental impact of chocolate production.

Artisan chocolate

Moreover, the exploration of new flavours and techniques continues to push the boundaries of what chocolate can be.

From bean-to-bar craftsmanship to innovative flavour combinations like lavender-infused chocolate or sea salt caramel or chilli chocolate, the world of chocolate is ever-expanding.

Chocolate is more than just a food; it’s an experience that brings joy, comfort, and connection- a timeless pleasure.

Whether enjoyed as a simple square of dark chocolate or a beautifully crafted dessert, it has the power to evoke emotions and create memories.

As you savour your next bite of chocolate, take a moment to appreciate the rich history, complex flavours, and endless possibilities that make this beloved ingredient truly special.