Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites

Chocolate bites with raspberry chia jam, a sweet and healthy frozen treat for every craving. These Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt. They’re great for parties, movie nights, or simply as a delightful snack. With their rich dark chocolate coating and vibrant raspberry filling, these bites stand out as a unique dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: Made with fresh raspberries and chia seeds, these bites offer nutrients while satisfying cravings.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these treats with minimal effort.
• Versatile Treats: Perfect for any occasion—snack time, desserts after dinner, or even as gifts!
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of dark chocolate and raspberry jam creates a delightful burst of flavor that is hard to resist.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to experiment with different sweeteners or toppings to make this recipe your own.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites efficiently, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Medium bowl
• Fork
• Heat-safe bowl
• Microwave

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for freezing the jam discs evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents the chocolate bites from sticking to the baking sheet, making clean-up easier.
• Heat-safe bowl: Essential for melting chocolate safely without burning it.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 180 grams fresh raspberries
– 15 millilitres maple syrup or honey
– 10 grams chia seeds
– 150 grams dark chocolate chips or chunks
– 5 millilitres coconut oil

How to Make Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it fits within your freezer for ease of chilling.

Step 2: Make the Raspberry Chia Jam

In a medium bowl, mash the fresh raspberries with a fork. Blend in the chia seeds and maple syrup or honey until evenly combined. Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes to allow it to thicken.

Step 3: Portion the Jam Mixture

Using a spoon, portion out approximately 30 millilitres of the raspberry mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each disc about 5 centimetres apart. Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and chill for at least 1 hour or until the discs are fully solidified.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate Coating

Place the dark chocolate chips or chunks and coconut oil in a heat-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each increment until completely smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Dip Each Disc in Chocolate

Quickly dip each frozen jam disc into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Return the chocolate-coated discs to the baking sheet.

Step 6: Final Freeze and Serve

Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for added flavour contrast. Freeze the bites for an additional 10 minutes or until the chocolate shell is firm before serving.

How to Serve Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites

Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. These delightful treats not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also pair wonderfully with other flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

As a Post-Meal Dessert

• Serve these chocolate bites after dinner for a sweet finish that complements a savory meal.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair the bites with fresh berries or sliced fruits for a refreshing contrast in flavors and textures.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites on a platter with assorted sweets, such as cookies or brownies, for an eye-catching dessert spread.

With Whipped Coconut Cream

• Top them with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for an extra layer of indulgence and creaminess.

How to Perfect Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites

To ensure your Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind. They will help you achieve the ideal texture and flavor balance.

• Use ripe raspberries: Choose fresh, ripe raspberries for the best natural sweetness and flavor in your jam.
• Chill thoroughly: Make sure to freeze the raspberry discs until they are solid before dipping them in chocolate. This prevents melting and ensures a clean coating.
• Choose high-quality chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for rich flavor and health benefits.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like crushed nuts or shredded coconut for added texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites

Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites can be enhanced by pairing them with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cheese Platter
   Combine assorted cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which provide creamy contrasts to the sweet chocolate bites.
2. Mixed Green Salad
   Serve alongside a light salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the sweetness of the bites.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes an indulgent side that pairs beautifully with the raspberry flavor.
4. Granola Parfait
   Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit in glasses for a delightful parfait that contrasts textures nicely.
5. Chocolate-Dipped Fruits
   Offer additional chocolate-dipped fruits like strawberries or bananas as complementary bites alongside your treats.
6. Tea or Coffee
   Brewed tea or coffee can serve as an excellent beverage option that enhances the overall enjoyment of your dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites turn out perfect every time.

• Not mashing raspberries enough: Ensure you mash the raspberries well to create a smooth jam. This helps in better mixing with chia seeds and ensures even flavor distribution.
• Skipping the resting time: Don’t rush! Allowing the raspberry mixture to rest for 5-10 minutes lets it thicken properly, giving your bites the right texture.
• Overheating chocolate: Be cautious when melting chocolate; overheating can lead to a grainy texture. Use short bursts in the microwave and stir frequently for a smooth finish.
• Improper spacing on baking sheet: Make sure to leave enough space between each raspberry disc. This prevents them from sticking together while freezing and allows for easy dipping later.
• Ignoring optional toppings: A sprinkle of sea salt enhances flavor contrast. Don’t skip this step; it adds an extra layer of deliciousness to your bites!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep bites separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites

• Place in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
• Transfer into a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for 5-7 minutes if desired.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for about 10 seconds, just until slightly warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan on low heat for a few minutes, but be careful not to melt the chocolate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites.

How do I make Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites vegan?

Simply use maple syrup instead of honey, and ensure that your dark chocolate is dairy-free.

Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries. Just thaw them and drain excess liquid before mashing.

What can I substitute for chia seeds?

You can use ground flaxseeds as an alternative, but adjust the quantity since they absorb moisture differently.

How long do these bites take to set?

The initial freezing takes about 1 hour, but you may want to freeze them longer if you’re using larger discs.

Final Thoughts

Raspberry Jam Chocolate Bites are not only a delightful treat but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize these bites by adding nuts or different types of fruit. Enjoy making this healthy dessert that satisfies sweet cravings without guilt!