Chocolate is one of those flavors that is almost universally loved. And for good reason too. It’s healthy, it’s delicious, and it usually satisfies a craving for most people.
That’s why it’s such a great breakfast food.
People talk about oatmeal for breakfast, but chocolate doesn’t get enough credit. Once you have really good cocoa powder, you can whip up chocolate overnight oats, mocha teas and lattes, and my very favorite, chocolate and nut smoothies.
If you love breakfast smoothies but usually end up using sweetened milk or added sugar, this will be a useful recipe because it is sugar-free. The dates act as a great sugar replacement.
Here are some more healthy ingredients to stock a healthy sugar free pantry.
For this particular recipe, we’re using soaked hazelnuts to create a creamy and satisfying chocolate and hazelnut smoothie. What makes this recipe even better is that it is:
- paleo
- dairy free
- sugar free
- vegan & vegetarian
- easy to make!
Important Recipe Notes
When using nuts in this chocolate smoothie (or any other smoothie), soak the nuts overnight so that it turns creamy when blended. Not soaking nuts will result in a grainy smoothie. If you forgot to soak them overnight, soak for at least 1 hour before making the chocolate smoothie. Use hot water to speed up this process.
Here are the ingredients and method.
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup whole hazelnuts (with or without skin), soaked overnight and drained
- 1 tablespoon raw cacao powder, or cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 3 dates, pitted
- pinch of salt
- 10 ice cubes
Directions
In a blender or smoothie maker, combine the water, hazelnuts, chia seeds, cacao powder, dates, and salt in a high-speed blender, and blend until smooth. Adjust any ingredients to taste, then add in the ice and blend again to create a milkshake-like texture.
If you like a spicier smoothie, you can opt to add a little vanilla or cinnamon. Enjoy!
Other breakfast smoothies on the blog:
- Easy Green Smoothie Recipe
- Pumpkin Spice Smoothie Recipe
- 19 Juicing Recipes For An Effective Juice Detox
