Healthy Holiday Chocolate Bark
If you want a low effort, easy to make festive holiday treat that’s still pretty healthy, this healthy holiday chocolate bark is for you!
If you’ve never made chocolate bark, let me assure you that it’s so fast and fail-safe. All it takes is melting chocolate, sprinkling on your toppings, then freezing!
This healthy holiday chocolate bark is really ideal for pregnancy and postpartum because the red, green, and white toppings used here are full of protein, healthy fats, fibre, and key nutrients like vitamin E, zinc, magnesium, and even iron.
Why Healthy Holiday Chocolate Bark is Good for Pregnancy
Dark Chocolate Base: Rich in antioxidants, dark or bittersweet chocolate is a mood-boosting treat for pregnant women. It also contains magnesium, which can help relax muscles and support a healthy pregnancy. Just be mindful to choose chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the best health benefits.
Coconut Oil: A source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), coconut oil can provide quick energy, support brain health, and help with nutrient absorption. It also has antibacterial properties, which can aid in supporting your immune system during pregnancy.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, pumpkin seeds, and pistachios provide a combination of healthy fats, fiber, and protein—all essential for the growth and development of your baby. These nuts and seeds are rich in magnesium, which can help prevent leg cramps, a common discomfort during pregnancy, and support healthy fetal development.
Dried Cranberries (or Pomegrate Arils/ Dried Strawberries/Goji Berries): These fruits not only add a burst of color and natural sweetness but are also high in antioxidants and vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system and improve iron absorption, crucial during pregnancy.
Hemp Hearts: These tiny seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which support your baby's brain development. They also provide a healthy dose of protein and fiber, which can help with digestion and keep you feeling full.
Coarse Sea Salt: A sprinkle of sea salt enhances the chocolate's natural sweetness while adding trace minerals that support hydration and electrolyte balance, particularly important during pregnancy.
Benefits of Healthy Holiday Chocolate Bark for your Pregnancy Stage
First Trimester: The antioxidants from dark chocolate and the anti-inflammatory benefits of coconut oil can support your body’s immune function. Plus, the healthy fats and protein can help reduce morning sickness symptoms and keep your energy levels steady as your baby’s organs develop.
Second Trimester: As your baby grows, the added protein from nuts, seeds, and hemp hearts supports the development of their muscles and tissues. The fiber in the nuts and seeds helps with digestion, which can be especially beneficial as you enter the second trimester when digestive issues can arise.
Third Trimester: The magnesium in almonds, pistachios, and pumpkin seeds can help reduce leg cramps, and the omega-3 fatty acids from the hemp hearts are crucial for your baby's brain development. This is also a great snack to satisfy those late-pregnancy cravings while providing lasting energy.
A Festive and Healthy Holiday Treat
This holiday chocolate bark is the perfect treat to share with loved ones during the festive season or to enjoy as a personal indulgence. With its vibrant mix of textures, flavors, and nutrients, it’s a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying nourished. Whether you’re in the early, middle, or late stages of pregnancy, this simple bark brings both joy and nourishment to your holiday celebrations.
Enjoy the season, and take care of yourself and baby with this wholesome, festive snack!
Recipe:
12oz dark or bittersweet chocolate
2 tbsp coconut oil
½ cup chopped almonds
¼ cup pumpkin seeds or pistachios (or both!)
¼ cup dried cranberries (or use pomegranate arils, freeze dried strawberries or goji berries)
1 tbsp hemp hearts
sprinkle of coarse sea salt
Line baking sheet with parchment paper
Melt the chocolate and coconut oil together, either by double boiler method of in a glass bowl in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds
Pour melted chocolate onto baking tray, smoothing out with a spatula to evenly coat (don't worry if it doesn't go all the way to the edges!)
Sprinkle the chocolate with all of your toppings, then move to a freezer until hardened, about 30 minutes
Break up your bark into pieces and store in fridge or freezer for two weeks