Many of us want to have a little something sweet after a meal, whether it’s because we’re just psychologically or behaviorally programmed for it or if we’re looking for that little boost in serotonin. As a nutritionist, I usually recommend reaching for a simple, clean piece of dark chocolate, something with at least 72% cacao in it, with only a few clean ingredients. The little bit of sweetness is usually enough to satisfy the sweet-tooth craving and the high levels of antioxidants and magnesium in the chocolate have proven nutritional benefits to justify it. Not a chocolate lover? Reach for some frozen fruits like frozen green grapes, which are a great whole-fruit alternative, that are low cal with no added sugar and full of electrolytes and polyphenols, like resveratrol.

If you're someone who needs something that feels like a decadent ending to round out a meal, here's my recipe for a Chocolate Avocado Pudding that takes just 5-minutes and doesn't leave you feeling 5 pounds heavier.

Chocolate Avocado Pudding 🥑🍫

SERVES 2-4

TOTAL TIME: 10 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 ripe medium organic avocados

• 1/4 cup organic coconut milk (or preferred nut mylk)

• 4 tablespoons unsweetened organic dark cocoa powder or organic cacao powder

• 3 tablespoons manuka honey

• 2 ounces of dark chocolate (72% or higher), melted (vegan option best)

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon ground ceylon cinnamon

• 1/8 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt

• Toppings: whipped coconut cream, vegan chocolate sprinkles, cocoa nibs

• Use raw organic ingredients whenever possible

DIRECTIONS:

Remove avocados from the skin (and pit) and place in a food processor. Blend until combined and creamy. Add in all remaining ingredients, blending until pureed, scraping down the sides when needed to combine. Taste and season/sweetened additionally if desired. Blend for a good 1-2 minutes until completely creamy, then serve with desired toppings.

If you’re not eating right away, keep in fridge in a seal tight container.

Enjoy!

XO - Serena