When you think of Valentine’s Day, what do you think of? For me, it’s chocolate! February just so happens to be National Chocolate Month, and I’ve been invited to share two great chocolate recipes on WTTE FOX 28/WSYX Channel 6 in Columbus.

You all know how I love to “healthify” recipes. Life is too short to cut out all of the treats, but there are great ways to still indulge and be mindful of your ingredient list. Did you know that almond butter—including Barney Butter—and chocolate are a match made in heaven?

My first recipe is a great alternative to a sugar laden hot chocolate. Before I told my youngest what was in it, he said it was one of the best hot chocolates he’s ever had. It’s silky, chocolatey, and the almond butter gives it an extra rich texture to it.

Almond Butter Hot Chocolate
Recipe by Barney’s Butter

Ingredients:

• 1 (13.5oz) can light coconut milk
• ½ cup water
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• 3 tbsp Barney Butter Almond Butter
• 2 tbsp sugar, or more to taste
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ vanilla bean, scraped or a splash of vanilla extract
• Optional: Whipped cream, marshmallows, cinnamon, etc.

Directions:
1. Whisk all ingredients together and warm over medium heat.
2. Serve with whipped cream, marshmallows, etc. for a creamy delicious treat.

The second recipe, well, I’m not going to lie: It scared me at first. Black beans, almond butter, chocolate, and maple syrup? Are you kidding me???? I dipped my finger in it expecting to hate it; instead, I’m rather addicted to it. This dip is sooo good! The chocolate stands out and the almond butter adds another layer of flavor that matches perfectly with strawberries, apples, pretzels, and graham crackers. It’s a great “healthified” dip for any occasion!

Chocolate Almond Butter Dip
Recipe adapted by Sarah Manaresi from Barney’s Butter

Ingredients:

• 1 can unsalted black beans, rinsed and dried
• 4 tbsp maple syrup or preferred sweetener
• 2 tbsp Barney Butter of preferred flavor
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth