Why You’ll Love Sugar-Free Mexican-Spiced Dark Chocolate Recipe
If you enjoy bold chocolate with a little warmth, this recipe is for you. The combination of cocoa and spices creates a complex flavor that feels both comforting and exciting.
It’s completely sugar-free, making it ideal for low-carb and keto lifestyles. The recipe is also dairy-free and paleo-friendly.
There’s no need for complicated equipment or tempering techniques. Simply melt, mix, pour, and let it set.
It’s perfect for gifting, snacking, or keeping on hand when a chocolate craving strikes.
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
1 pinch black pepper
1 pinch fine sea salt
50 grams cacao butter (about 1/4 cup when melted)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
25 drops liquid stevia or monk fruit sweetener, or to taste
Directions
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In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, chili powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, and salt until evenly combined.
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Melt the cacao butter in a heatproof bowl using short microwave intervals or over a double boiler, stirring until completely smooth.
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Stir the vanilla extract and liquid sweetener into the melted cacao butter. Adjust sweetness to taste.
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Pour the melted cacao butter mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and glossy with no lumps.
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Carefully pour the chocolate mixture into lightly greased molds or small loaf pans.
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Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature until firm. You may also place it in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
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Once fully set, remove from molds and store properly.
Servings and timing
Servings: Approximately 18 small pieces
Prep time: 10 minutes
Setting time: 30–60 minutes at room temperature (or about 15–20 minutes refrigerated)
Total time: About 40–70 minutes including setting
Variations
For extra heat, increase the chili powder slightly or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
For a subtle twist, add a small amount of unsweetened shredded coconut or finely chopped nuts before the chocolate sets.
If you prefer a slightly softer texture, substitute coconut oil for the cacao butter, keeping in mind it will melt more easily at room temperature.
You can also experiment with additional spices such as cardamom or a touch of espresso powder for deeper flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store the chocolate in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days if your kitchen is cool. In warmer climates, refrigerate to prevent melting.
For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Allow frozen chocolate to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.
Reheating is not necessary unless you plan to remelt it for another use. If remelting, do so gently over low heat.
FAQs
Can I use coconut oil instead of cacao butter?
Yes, coconut oil works as a substitute, but the chocolate will be softer and may melt quickly at room temperature.
Is this chocolate very spicy?
It has a mild warmth rather than intense heat. You can easily adjust the spice level to your preference.
Can I use powdered sweetener instead of liquid?
Yes, but make sure it dissolves fully into the melted fat to avoid a grainy texture.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, when made with a low-carb sweetener like stevia or monk fruit, it fits well into a keto diet.
Do I need chocolate molds?
No, you can use mini loaf pans, silicone molds, or even pour the mixture into a lined dish and break it into pieces once set.
How do I make it sweeter?
Simply add more liquid sweetener a few drops at a time and taste before pouring into molds.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or seeds?
Absolutely. Stir them in just before pouring the chocolate into molds.
Why is my chocolate grainy?
Graininess usually happens if the sweetener doesn’t dissolve properly. Whisk thoroughly and ensure the cacao butter is fully melted.
Can I use this chocolate for baking?
Yes, once set, it can be chopped and used in recipes that call for dark chocolate.
Is this chocolate dairy-free?
Yes, the recipe contains no dairy ingredients, making it suitable for dairy-free diets.
Conclusion
This sugar-free Mexican-spiced dark chocolate is proof that homemade treats can be both simple and sophisticated. With its deep cocoa richness and gentle spice, it delivers bold flavor without added sugar. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or simply want a unique chocolate experience, this easy recipe is a delicious way to enjoy something special.
