Introduction: The Rise of Vegan Chocolate
The demand for vegan chocolate has exploded in recent years. As a chocolate enthusiast and long-time vegan, I’ve watched this delicious revolution unfold with excitement.
Gone are the days of settling for subpar dairy-free options.
Today, we’re spoiled for choice with an array of high-quality, innovative vegan chocolate products that rival their traditional counterparts.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 vegan chocolate products that are readily available. Obviously, there are other smaller boutique chocolate makers that I haven’t listed here but the ones I compared can be found in your local supermarket or Amazon. I’ll share my insights into their unique characteristics, flavor profiles, and ethical credentials.
Whether you’re a committed vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply curious about plant-based choices, this list will help you navigate the expanding world of vegan chocolate.
Understanding Vegan Chocolate
Before we dive into our top picks, let’s explore what makes chocolate vegan and why it’s gaining popularity.
What Makes Chocolate Vegan?
Vegan chocolate contains no animal-derived ingredients. Traditional milk chocolate contains dairy, but vegan alternatives use plant-based milk or skip the ‘milk’ component altogether.
The core ingredients of vegan chocolate typically include:
- Cocoa beans
- Cocoa butter
- Sugar (or choice sweeteners)
- Vanilla (optional)
Many high-quality dark chocolates are naturally vegan, as they don’t contain milk products. However, the vegan chocolate market has expanded to include milk chocolate choices, white chocolate, and a variety of flavored options.
The Benefits of Choosing Vegan Chocolate
Vegan chocolate offers several compelling benefits:
Ethical Considerations: Vegan chocolate often aligns with fair trade practices and supports sustainable farming.
Environmental Impact: Plant-based ingredients generally have a lower carbon footprint compared to dairy.
Health Benefits: Dark vegan chocolate is rich in antioxidants and often contains less sugar than milk chocolate.
Allergen-Friendly: Vegan options are suitable for people with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.
Now, let’s explore the crème de la cacao of vegan chocolate products.
Top 10 Vegan Chocolate Products
1. Hu Chocolate Bars Variety Pack
Hu Chocolate has quickly become a favorite among health-conscious chocolate lovers. Their variety pack offers a perfect introduction to their range of flavors.
Available on Amazon – Hu Vegan Chocolate Bars
Key Features:
- Organic, fair-trade cacao
- No refined sugar, soy, or artificial ingredients
- Gluten-free and non-GMO
Flavor Profile: The variety pack includes unique combinations like Cashew Butter + Vanilla Bean and Almond Butter + Puffed Quinoa, alongside their classic Simple Dark Chocolate. The texture is smooth and rich, with a satisfying snap.
Ethical Credentials: Hu is committed to using organic, fair-trade cacao and environmentally friendly packaging.
Pro Tip: If you find dark chocolate too bitter, start with their nut butter varieties for a creamier experience.
2. Enjoy Life Rice Milk Chocolate Bars
For those missing the creamy texture of milk chocolate, Enjoy Life’s Rice Milk Chocolate Bars offer a delightful choice.
Available on Amazon: Enjoy Life Chocolate Semi-Sweet
Key Features:
- Allergen-friendly (free from 14 common allergens)
- Smooth, creamy texture
- Affordable price point
Flavor Profile: These bars have a mild, sweet flavor reminiscent of traditional milk chocolate. The rice milk base provides a creamy texture without overpowering the chocolate taste.
Ethical Credentials: Enjoy Life focuses on creating inclusive products for people with food allergies, promoting a more accessible chocolate experience.
Pro Tip: These bars melt beautifully, making them perfect for s’mores or as a coating for strawberries.
3. Endangered Species Chocolate
Endangered Species offers a range of flavored dark chocolates that support wildlife protection efforts.
Available on Amazon: Endangered Species Chocolate
Key Features:
- 60% dark chocolate
- Fair trade certified
- Supports wildlife conservation
Flavor Profile: The Caramel & Sea Salt is a popular variety and offers a refreshing twist on classic dark chocolate. The sweetness of the caramel and the saltiness of the sea salt, compliment each other perfectly.
Ethical Credentials: Each purchase supports wildlife conservation efforts, with 10% of net profits donated to partner organizations.
Pro Tip: Try pairing this chocolate with a cup caramel coffee for a double dose of caramel goodness.
4. Unreal Dark Chocolate Coconut Bars
Unreal has made a name for itself by recreating classic candy bar experiences with cleaner, plant-based ingredients.
Available on Amazon: Unreal Dark Chocolate Coconut Bars
Key Features:
- Low sugar content
- No artificial ingredients
- Satisfying coconut texture
Flavor Profile: These bars mix rich dark chocolate with chewy coconut, creating a texture similar to popular coconut-filled candy bars. The coconut adds natural sweetness, allowing for a lower overall sugar content.
Ethical Credentials: Unreal uses responsibly sourced ingredients and recyclable packaging.
Pro Tip: Keep these bars in the fridge for a refreshing summer treat that won’t melt in your hand.
5. Lily’s Dark Chocolate Chips
Lily’s Dark Chocolate Chips are a game-changer for bakers and snackers looking for a sugar-free option.
Available on Amazon: Lily’s Dark Chocolate Chips
Key Features:
- Sweetened with stevia
- No added sugar
- Keto-friendly
Flavor Profile: Despite being sugar-free, these chips offer a rich chocolate flavor with minimal aftertaste from the stevia sweetener. They have a smooth melt, making them ideal for baking or snacking.
Ethical Credentials: Lily’s uses fair trade certified cocoa in their products.
Pro Tip: Use these chips to make sugar-free, vegan chocolate chip cookies that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions.
6. Taza Chocolate Organic Mexicano Disc
Taza offers a unique chocolate experience with their stone-ground chocolate discs, inspired by traditional Mexican chocolate-making techniques.
Available on Amazon: Taza Chocolate Organic Mexicano Disc
Key Features:
- Stone-ground texture
- Organic and direct trade
- Variety of flavors (e.g., cinnamon, coffee)
Flavor Profile: The stone-grinding process results in a rustic, slightly gritty texture that’s unlike any other chocolate on this list. The flavor is intense and complex, with each variety offering a unique taste experience.
Ethical Credentials: Taza practices direct trade, building long-term relationships with cacao farmers and paying above fair trade prices.
Pro Tip: Grate these discs over your morning oatmeal for a decadent breakfast treat.
7. Alter Eco Dark Organic Chocolate Variety Pack
Alter Eco combines high-quality organic chocolate with a variety of flavors for a satisfying snack.
Available on Amazon: Alter Eco Dark Organic Chocolate
Key Features:
- Organic and fair trade
- Balance of sweet and salty
- Environmentally friendly packaging
Flavor Profile: The dark chocolate base is rich and not too sweet, perfectly complemented by the saltiness of sea salt. It’s a sophisticated flavor combination that appeals to adult palates.
Ethical Credentials: Alter Eco is committed to sustainable farming practices and uses compostable packaging for many of their products.
Pro Tip: Pair this chocolate with a bold red wine for an indulgent evening treat.
8. Raaka Coconut Milk 60% Dark Chocolate Bar
Raaka is known for their unique approach to chocolate-making, using unroasted cacao beans for a distinctive flavor profile.
Available on Amazon: Raaka Coconut Milk 60% Dark Chocolate Bar
Key Features:
- Single-origin chocolate
- Coconut milk for creaminess
- Transparent sourcing practices
Flavor Profile: The use of unroasted cacao results in a bright, fruity flavor that’s enhanced by the subtle sweetness of coconut milk. It’s a unique taste experience that sets Raaka apart from other vegan chocolates.
Ethical Credentials: Raaka practices transparent trade, sharing detailed information about their cacao sourcing and pricing.
Pro Tip: Let this chocolate melt slowly on your tongue to fully appreciate it’s complex flavor profile.
9. Theo Sea Salt 70% Dark Chocolate
Theo Chocolate has been a pioneer in organic, fair trade chocolate in the United States, and their Sea Salt Dark Chocolate bar is a testament to their commitment to quality.
Available on Amazon: Theo Sea Salt 70% Dark Vegan Chocolate
Key Features:
- Simple, high-quality ingredients
- Fair trade and organic
- Well-balanced flavor
Flavor Profile: The 70% dark chocolate base is rich and intense, with the sea salt adding a pleasant crunch and enhancing the chocolate’s natural flavors. It’s a classic combination executed perfectly.
Ethical Credentials: Theo was the first organic, fair trade certified chocolate maker in North America.
Pro Tip: Chop this bar into chunks and use it to elevate your next batch of vegan brownies.
10. Vego Mini Vegan Hazelnut Chocolate Bar
Vego has gained a cult following for creating one of the best vegan milk chocolate alternatives on the market.
Available on Amazon: Vego Mini Vegan Hazelnut Chocolate Bar
Key Features:
- Creamy texture similar to milk chocolate
- Generous amount of hazelnuts
- Popular among vegans and non-vegans alike
Flavor Profile: The Vego bar offers a creamy, sweet experience that’s remarkably similar to traditional milk chocolate. The hazelnuts add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
Ethical Credentials: Vego uses organic ingredients and is committed to fair working conditions throughout their supply chain.
Pro Tip: Keep these bars as a hidden advantage to share with non-vegan friends who claim they could never give up milk chocolate.
The Evolution of Vegan Chocolate
The vegan chocolate market has come a long way in recent years. Early vegan chocolates often suffered from texture issues or relied heavily on dark chocolate, which can be too bitter for some palates.
Today’s vegan chocolates have overcome these challenges through innovative ingredients and production techniques.
Plant-based milks like oat, rice, and coconut have revolutionized the creation of creamy vegan milk chocolates. Meanwhile, the use of choice sweeteners has expanded options for those looking to reduce sugar intake without sacrificing flavor.
Texture improvements have been significant. Many vegan chocolates now offer the same satisfying snap and melt-in-your-mouth experience as traditional chocolates.
This is achieved through careful formulation and temperature control during production.
Flavor innovations have also exploded. While classic dark chocolate stays popular, we’re seeing an increasing variety of flavored vegan chocolates. From fruit-infused bars to savory combinations like sea salt and olive oil, there’s a vegan chocolate to suit every taste preference.
The Ethics of Vegan Chocolate
Choosing vegan chocolate often aligns with broader ethical considerations beyond animal welfare. Many vegan chocolate brands prioritize fair trade practices, ensuring that cacao farmers receive fair compensation for their work.
Sustainable farming practices are another focus. Some brands work directly with cacao farmers to apply environmentally friendly growing methods, preserving biodiversity and reducing the use of harmful pesticides.
Packaging is an area where many vegan chocolate brands are leading the way. You’ll find options with compostable wrappers, recycled materials, and minimal plastic use.
This attention to environmental impact extends beyond the product itself to the entire supply chain.
Health Considerations of Vegan Chocolate
While chocolate is often considered an indulgence, vegan options can offer some health benefits when consumed in moderation. Dark chocolate, in particular, is rich in antioxidants and may have positive effects on heart health and cognitive function.
Many vegan chocolates are lower in sugar than their traditional counterparts, especially those using choice sweeteners. This can be useful for those monitoring their sugar intake or managing conditions like diabetes.
However, remember that not all vegan chocolates are created equal from a health perspective. Some may be high in calories or contain added oils.
As with any food, reading the ingredient list and nutritional information is key to making informed choices.
Cooking and Baking with Vegan Chocolate
Vegan chocolate isn’t just for snacking. It’s also a versatile ingredient for cooking and baking.
Many of the products on our list can be easily incorporated into your favorite recipes.
For baking, chocolate chips or chopped bars work well in cookies, brownies, and cakes. When melting vegan chocolate for dipping or drizzling, be sure to use low heat to prevent scorching.
Adding a small amount of coconut oil can help achieve a smoother consistency.
In savory cooking, dark chocolate can add depth to sauces and stews. A small amount grated into a chili or mole sauce can provide a rich, complex flavor without overwhelming the dish.
The Future of Vegan Chocolate
The vegan chocolate market shows no signs of slowing down. As more consumers embrace plant-based diets or simply look to reduce their consumption of animal products, demand for high-quality vegan chocolate continues to grow.
We can expect to see further innovations in flavor and texture, as well as an increased focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing. The line between vegan and traditional chocolate may continue to blur as more mainstream chocolate brands expand their plant-based offerings.
Artisanal and small-batch producers are likely to play a significant role in driving innovation in the vegan chocolate space. These smaller companies often have the flexibility to experiment with unique ingredients and production methods, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in vegan chocolate.
Storing and Enjoying Vegan Chocolate
To get the most out of your vegan chocolate, proper storage is essential. Like all chocolate, vegan varieties are sensitive to temperature and humidity.
Store your chocolate in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong odors.
For the best tasting experience, allow your chocolate to come to room temperature before eating. This allows the full range of flavors to develop and ensures the optimal melt-in-your-mouth texture.
When tasting chocolate, take the time to engage all your senses. Notice the aroma, the snap as you break a piece, and how it melts on your tongue.
Pay attention to the different flavor notes that develop as the chocolate melts.
Pairing vegan chocolate with complementary flavors can enhance your enjoyment. Try dark chocolate with fresh berries, milk chocolate alternatives with nuts, or mint-flavored chocolate with a cup of herbal tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is dark chocolate always vegan?
While many dark chocolates are naturally vegan, it’s important to check the ingredient list. Some dark chocolates may contain milk fat or other animal-derived ingredients.
Can vegan chocolate be used for baking?
Yes, vegan chocolate can be used for baking. Many brands offer chocolate chips or baking bars specifically designed for this purpose.
Is vegan chocolate healthier than regular chocolate?
Vegan chocolate can be healthier in some aspects, such as being lower in sugar or free from dairy allergens. However, it’s still a calorie-dense food and should be enjoyed in moderation.
How long does vegan chocolate last?
Properly stored, vegan chocolate can last for several months to a year. Dark chocolate generally has a longer shelf life than milk chocolate choices.
Can people with nut allergies eat vegan chocolate?
Many vegan chocolates are nut-free, but it’s crucial to check the label, as some may contain nuts or be produced in facilities that process nuts.
What’s the difference between fair trade and direct trade chocolate?
Fair trade chocolate meets certain standards for ethical production and farmer compensation. Direct trade involves chocolate makers working directly with farmers, often paying above fair trade prices.
Are there vegan white chocolate options?
Yes, there are vegan white chocolate options available, typically made with cocoa butter, plant-based milk, and sugar.
How is the sweetness of vegan chocolate compared to regular chocolate?
The sweetness can vary greatly depending on the brand and type. Some vegan chocolates are less sweet than traditional options, while others are comparable or even sweeter.
Can vegan chocolate be used for making hot chocolate?
Absolutely! Many vegan chocolates melt beautifully and can be used to make rich, creamy hot chocolate when combined with plant-based milk.
Are there any vegan milk chocolate alternatives?
Yes, there are several vegan milk chocolate alternatives on the market, often made with plant-based milks like rice, oat, or coconut milk.
Key Takeaways
- Vegan chocolate offers ethical, environmental, and potential health benefits.
- There’s a wide range of vegan chocolate styles, from dark to ‘milk’ choices.
- Many vegan chocolates support fair trade and sustainable farming practices.
- Texture and flavor profiles vary widely, catering to different preferences.
- Vegan chocolate is suitable for various dietary needs, including dairy-free and often gluten-free diets.
- Proper storage and tasting techniques can enhance your vegan chocolate experience.
- The vegan chocolate market continues to innovate, with exciting developments on the horizon.
