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These healthy vegan cocoa puffs are a delightful snack that satisfies your craving for something crispy and chocolatey without the guilt. They are made from chickpeas coated in cacao and a touch of natural sweetener, offering a crunchy treat that is genuinely nourishing. Perfect for when you want a quick, protein packed bite, these cocoa puffs are so easy to prepare in your air fryer or oven.
I first made these during a busy afternoon when I wanted something sweet but healthy. Now they have become a favorite snack for my family, especially when we need a little chocolate fix that won’t derail our healthy eating habits.
Ingredients
- Chickpeas: the base of the recipe, providing crunch, protein, and fiber. Use canned chickpeas that have been well drained and dried for best crispness
- Coconut oil: helps the cacao powder stick and adds a subtle tropical richness (coldpressed varieties are preferred for deeper flavor)
- Cacao powder: this is not just for taste, it adds antioxidants and a rich chocolate flavor, choose a highquality unsweetened powder
- Vanilla extract: enhances the overall flavor and adds a sweet aroma naturally
- Coconut sugar: a mild and natural sweetener that balances the bitterness of cacao, you can select organic for purity
Instructions
- Coat Chickpeas in the Flavor Mix:
- Take your drained and dried chickpeas and toss them thoroughly with coconut oil, cacao powder, vanilla extract, and coconut sugar. Make sure each chickpea is evenly coated so every bite carries that rich cocoa flavor.
- Cook Until Crispy:
- Spread the coated chickpeas out in your air fryer basket or on a baking sheet if using the oven. Cook at around 375 degrees Fahrenheit, shaking or stirring occasionally to promote even browning. This step is key to getting that irresistible crunch. Keep a close watch as cooking times may vary slightly depending on your appliance.
- Cool Before Enjoying:
- Once golden and crisp, allow the cocoa puffs to cool down completely. This ensures they hold their crunch and don't become soggy. Once cooled, enjoy immediately or store for later snacking.
My favorite part about this recipe is how it transforms humble chickpeas into a crunchy, chocolatey delight. It reminds me of when my kids discovered them and were amazed that a healthy snack could taste this good. We named them our "super snack" for busy afternoons and road trips.
Storage tips
Store leftover cocoa puffs in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them crisp. Let them come to room temperature briefly before eating for the best texture. Avoid storing near moisture or heat as that can soften the crunch.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have coconut sugar on hand, you can easily swap in any granular sugar like cane or brown sugar. For cacao powder, if unavailable, unsweetened cocoa powder is a fine substitute and widely accessible.
Serving suggestions
These cocoa puffs are perfect on their own but also delicious sprinkled over vegan yogurt or smoothie bowls. They make a fun and healthy addition to breakfast or an afternoon pick me up.
Enjoy these crunchy vegan cocoa puffs as a healthy snack or a topping for yogurt and smoothie bowls. They are quick to make and great for busy days.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → What ingredients are used for natural sweetness?
Coconut sugar and maple syrup provide a subtle sweetness that complements the cacao coating without overpowering the snack.
- → How are the chickpeas cooked for crispiness?
The chickpeas are air fried or baked until they become crispy, ensuring a satisfying crunchy texture.
- → Can the cacao powder be substituted?
Yes, cacao powder can be replaced with cocoa powder if preferred for a similar rich chocolate flavor.
- → How should these cocoa puffs be stored?
Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for 2-3 days.
- → What nutritional benefits do these snacks offer?
They provide high protein and fiber from chickpeas along with antioxidants from cacao, supporting a healthy diet.