Save The first time I served this at a dinner party, my friend Sarah took a bite, scrunched her forehead, and whispered, "Is this... hummus?" She looked genuinely confused, like I had just told her the sky was actually purple. But then she went back for thirds and demanded the recipe before she even left.
I discovered this during a particularly intense chocolate craving at 11 PM. The hummus in my fridge and cocoa powder on my counter had a magnetic moment. Now it lives in my regular rotation because somehow, it just works.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed: These create the creamy base, and rinsing thoroughly removes any metallic taste
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) unsweetened almond milk: Start here and add more as needed to reach your perfect dipping consistency
- 1/4 cup (60 g) tahini: This adds that classic hummus richness and pairs beautifully with chocolate
- 1/3 cup (40 g) unsweetened cocoa powder: Sift it first if you notice lumps, which guarantees smooth results
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) maple syrup: Agave works too, but maple adds a subtle warmth that complements the cocoa
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Do not skip this, as it bridges the savory beans and sweet chocolate
- 1/4 tsp salt: This tiny amount makes the chocolate flavor pop and cuts through the richness
- 1 to 2 tbsp chocolate chips: Optional, but folding these in creates tiny melted pockets of pure joy
- 1 to 2 tbsp peanut butter or almond butter: This transforms it into something closer to a cookie dough dip
Instructions
- Blend the base:
- Add all ingredients except chocolate chips or nut butter to a food processor and blend until completely smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides at least twice
- Adjust the texture:
- If it feels too thick, add almond milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency
- Taste and tweak:
- This is where you make it yours, so add more maple syrup for sweetness or cocoa for intensity
- Add the fun stuff:
- If using chocolate chips or nut butter, pulse briefly just to incorporate them without completely breaking down the chips
- Chill before serving:
- Let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, which lets the flavors meld together beautifully
Save My kids caught me eating this straight from the bowl with a spoon and looked at me like I had lost my mind. Then they tried it and proceeded to fight over the last scoop.
Serving Ideas That Actually Work
Strawberries are the classic pairing for a reason, the tart fruit cuts through the richness perfectly. Apple slices, pretzels, and graham crackers all bring something different to the party.
Making It Your Own
I have added a scoop of protein powder after a workout, and nobody could tell the difference. For a mocha version, a teaspoon of instant espresso powder creates something absolutely magical.
Storage and Meal Prep
This keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to five days, so I often double the batch and portion it into small containers for grab-and-go snacks throughout the week.
- Let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving if it has been chilled overnight
- Stir well before serving, as the tahini may settle slightly
- A splash of fresh milk revives the texture if it thickens up after a few days
Save This recipe has turned skeptic after skeptic into believer, and it might just become your new secret weapon.
Recipe FAQs
- → What ingredients create the creamy texture?
The smooth consistency comes from blending chickpeas with tahini and plant-based milk, resulting in a rich and creamy base.
- → How can I adjust the sweetness or chocolate flavor?
Sweetness and cocoa intensity are adjustable by adding more maple syrup or cocoa powder to taste during blending.
- → Are there optional ingredients to enhance flavor?
Yes, adding chocolate chips or nut butters like peanut or almond gives extra depth and texture.
- → How should this spread be served?
Best served chilled or at room temperature alongside fruit slices, pretzels, or crackers.
- → How long can it be stored?
Store in an airtight container refrigerated for up to five days, maintaining freshness and texture.
- → Is this suitable for special diets?
Yes, it's vegan, gluten-free, and high in protein, making it accessible for diverse dietary needs.