Craving Something Sweet? Nutrition Scientist Shares Guilt-Free Chocolate Truffle Recipe

This healthier chocolate truffle made with dark chocolate and black beans lets you indulge your sweet tooth without derailing your fitness goals

Chocolate often tops the list of “forbidden foods” for those trying to lose weight or follow a disciplined fitness routine. For people with a sweet tooth, this restriction can feel especially tough. However, chocolate doesn’t have to be the enemy. With smarter ingredient choices, it can still be part of a balanced lifestyle.

London-based nutrition scientist Dr Emily Prpa recently shared a healthier take on a classic dessert—chocolate truffles—in a January 27 social media post. Her version swaps out refined ingredients for nutrient-rich alternatives, making it a more wholesome indulgence. The star ingredient in this recipe is dark chocolate, a popular substitute for regular milk chocolate in healthier desserts.

Why dark chocolate is a smarter choice
According to Dr Prpa, dark chocolate helps release serotonin, the brain’s “feel-good” hormone. It also contains theobromine, a compound related to caffeine that provides a gentler energy boost and improves focus without the jittery effect. Compared to milk chocolate, dark chocolate has slightly fewer calories and is known to support cognitive performance and concentration.

She also referenced a 2019 study led by Dr Sarah Jackson from UCL Epidemiology and Health Care, which found that people who consumed dark chocolate regularly reported fewer symptoms of depression. Interestingly, the same benefits were not observed with milk chocolate.

Healthy chocolate truffle recipe

Makes approximately 12 truffles

Ingredients:

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 75 g dark chocolate (70–75% cocoa), chopped
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 tbsp nut butter (almond or peanut)
• 3 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of sea salt
• Optional: shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or chopped nuts for coating

Method:

1. Melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together using a microwave or double boiler.
2. In a food processor, blend the black beans until smooth. Add cocoa powder, nut butter, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, salt, and the melted chocolate. Blend until well combined.
3. Refrigerate the mixture for 30–60 minutes until slightly firm.
4. Shape into small balls and roll in cocoa powder, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts if desired.
5. Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

With this simple recipe, fitness enthusiasts can enjoy a rich, chocolatey treat that satisfies cravings while staying aligned with healthier eating habits.