This healthy chocolate hummus is rich, creamy, and seriously chocolatey. It is made with black beans, cocoa powder, nut butter, and just a little maple syrup for sweetness. The result is smooth and decadent without needing a lot of sugar.

If you like chocolate spreads, this is a great homemade alternative to Nutella and other sweet chocolate spreads. It has the same kind of rich, spreadable texture, but black beans add fiber and plant-based protein. And because the sweetness is kept low, the chocolate flavor really shines through.

A healthier chocolate spread

The base for this recipe is black beans. They might not be the first thing you think of when you hear chocolate hummus, but they work really well. Of course, you could swap them out for chickpeas in a pinch. I’ve tried both version, and they’re both delicious.

Once blended with cocoa powder and nut butter, the beans’ (or chickpeas’) flavor becomes very subtle. What you get is a thick, creamy chocolate spread that is perfect on toast, crackers, fruit, or straight from the spoon.

I like using unsweetened cocoa powder here. It gives the hummus a deep chocolate flavor without adding sugar. You could also use cacao powder for an extra boost of minerals.

A small amount of maple syrup is all you need to balance the bitterness of the cocoa. You can easily adjust it to your taste–maybe start with a little less and then see how you feel.

How to make chocolate hummus

The recipe is very simple. Add the black beans, cocoa powder, nut butter, maple syrup, and the remaining ingredients to a food processor or high-speed blender.

Blend until completely smooth. This can take a little longer than you expect, especially if you want that ultra-creamy texture. I leave the blender on for a few minutes.

If the hummus is too thick, add a splash of plant-based milk or water. Start with a small amount. You can always add more. It will also thicken in the fridge.

Taste the black bean chocolate hummus before serving. If you want it sweeter, add a little more maple syrup. If you want a stronger chocolate flavor, add another spoonful of cocoa powder or more peanut butter.

How to serve it

There are so many ways to eat this chocolate hummus.

Spread it on toast or sourdough for an easy breakfast or snack.
Dip it with crisp bread or crackers.
Serve it with banana, strawberries, or apple slices.
It is also delicious with pancakes, waffles, or as a filling for crepes.

And yes, eating it straight from the spoon is absolutely an option.

Keep the chocolate hummus refrigerated in an airtight container. It’s a great make-ahead snack and stays creamy and spreadable in the fridge for a couple of days.

This recipe is: vegan, dairy-free, naturally high in fiber, and made with simple ingredients. It is a satisfying way to enjoy something that tastes indulgent while keeping the added sugar to a minimum.