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Homemade Chocolate Bars (Raw, Vegan, Gluten-Free & Paleo)

Last Update: September 26, 2025

Indulge in truly clean sweetness with these homemade raw chocolate bars—a raw, vegan, gluten-free, and paleo treat you can feel good about. Made with melted coconut oil, maple syrup, coconut sugar, and rich cacao, these bars deliver deep chocolate flavor without dairy or refined sugars. The beauty is how simple they are: mix, mold, top, and chill.

These bars aren’t just desserts—they’re flexible, customizable treats. Think golden berries, shredded coconut, cacao nibs, hemp or sesame seeds—toppings that add crunch, texture, and extra nutrition. Perfect for snack moments, lunchbox surprises, or clean dessert swaps when you want something still sweet but more wholesome.

Because they’re raw and dairy-free, you preserve more antioxidants and healthy fats. Because they’re also paleo and gluten-free, they work nicely with many dietary needs. Longer chilling time lets the bars set firm, giving you elegant chocolate squares that snap, melt, and satisfy without compromise.


How to Make Homemade Chocolate Bars

Recipe Details

Yield: 12 chocolates
Active Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours

Recipe Ingredients

Topping Ideas

Recipe Instructions

  • Line a muffin pan or chocolate molds with baking or paper cups.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together melted coconut oil, maple syrup, coconut sugar, cacao powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth and fully combined.
  • Divide the mixture evenly into 12 molds.
  • Top each mold with desired toppings (see Pairings section below for ideas).
  • Place molds in the refrigerator or freezer for at least 2 hours to firm up.
  • Store the hardened bars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Homemade Chocolate Bars Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per bar (recipe yields 12 bars).

Serving Size 1 bar
Calories ≈ 270 kcal
Protein ≈ 1.5 g
Carbs ≈ 20 g
Sugar ≈ 14 g
Fiber ≈ 2 g
Fat ≈ 20 g

Homemade Chocolate Bar Variations & Tips

  • Flavor boost: Add a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon to the chocolate mixture for a spiced edge.
  • Topping swaps: Use dried cherries, crushed nuts, cacao nibs, or toasted coconut flakes for texture and flavor.
  • Swap sweetener: Use all maple syrup (omit coconut sugar) for a smoother consistency, or reduce sweetener to make it less sweet.
  • Thickness adjustment: For thinner bars, use a wider mold and spread mixture more thinly — they’ll set faster.
  • Chill method: Use freezer speed for first hour, then transfer to refrigerator to finish setting and reduce cracking.

What to Have with Your Chocolate Bars

  • Sea salt flakes — a little sprinkle elevates the chocolate flavor.
  • Fresh berries — bright fruit balances rich chocolate.
  • Nut milks (almond, cashew) — great for dunking or sipping alongside.
  • Herbal tea (peppermint, rooibos) — gentle flavors that compliment cacao.
  • Espresso or strong black coffee — caffeine pairs well with deep chocolate notes.

When to Show Off Your Chocolate Bars

  • Holiday gift boxes — package bars in decorative boxes as edible gifts.
  • Raw dessert tables — fits beautifully in desserts-only or raw menus.
  • Snack packs or lunchboxes — a cleaner chocolate option to include in daily meals.
  • Wellness retreats or spa menus — dessert alternative that feels indulgent yet clean.
  • Chocolate tasting nights — include these bars alongside high-cacao options for contrast.

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Merce Muse

Thrive Market Food Editor