Heath(ier) Chocolate Peanut Butter Spread

Last weekend in Paris, Steve bought a fresh, hot baguette, which is a true treat on its own. Then he opened a brand new jar of Nutella, and spread the Nutella all over piece after piece of baguette. It was delicious. We often discuss if Nutella is better on a crepe (says me), or a baguette (says Steve). Last week I found myself home alone, just me and the jar of Nutella. I didn't have anything to spread it on, so I found a spoon and a jar of peanut butter and made do with the pair (which was crazy good).

Today I found this interesting, healthier option for chocolate spread. I was very doubtful, and fearful it would taste like hummus. As the person who posted the recipes says, "I promise it doesn't taste like hummus!"

Although this chocolate spread isn't exactly healthy, compared to Nutella it adds some nutritional punch that Nutella lacks. I used the vanilla sugar from the Savory Spice Shop that Anniemac gave me for Christmas.

The recipe is from this blog, with a few changes from me.

1 15 oz. can chick peas, drained and rinsed

3 Tablespoons peanut butter

2 Tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup unsweatened cocoa powder

1/4 cup (plus some) vanilla sugar (I used somewhere between a 1/4 and a 1/2 cup)

1 Teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 Teaspoon salt

1/4 cup brewed coffee

This is so good...not as good as Nutella, but close. I imagine you can get close to a Nutella taste (but probably not texture) if you substituted hazelnut butter for the peanut butter. I don't imagine this will last for very long. -- Sarah