Rosemary & Juniper Berry Dark Chocolate
This seasonal dark chocolate was inspired by Na Nin’s limited edition holiday fragrances, providing a fresh, forest-like hit to the tastebuds — simply by using elements from nature. Their AMBER BALSAM is a resonant, green scent of juniper berries, balsam fir, and golden amber resin. By incorporating rosemary, the goal was to achieve a similar taste profile to brighten the natural bitterness from the dark chocolate, combined with the surprise and delight of dried juniper berries. Served alongside warm or chilled cocktails, it’s a unique sensory experience to offer your special guests during the holidays.
Ingredients
1/2 lb organic cacao paste or 4-6 tbsp Moon Juice cacao powder
2 tbsp CAP coconut butter
1 tbsp unrefined virgin coconut oil
3 tsp Moon Juice maca powder
1/2 tsp himalayan pink salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp vanilla bean powder
1/3 cup dried juniper berries
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
In a food processor, combine dried juniper berries and fresh rosemary. Pulse a few times until juniper berries begin to split and halve. Keep mixture sealed and set aside while beginning the chocolate making process.
In a large saucepan, melt coconut oil with coconut butter on medium to high heat. Add cacao paste or powder and stir until all ingredients are completely melted and well combined. Sprinkle in maca powder, vanilla bean powder and pink salt, to taste.
On a parchment lined baking sheet (medium sized is suitable — if doubling the recipe, use a large sheet), pour entire dark chocolate mixture until evenly distributed. Let set at room temperature for approximately 5 minutes and then sprinkle with rosemary and juniper berry blend. A little bit goes a long way, but add as much or as little as you’d like and then place in freezer immediately to set.
Once set (at least 30 minutes), begin to break the chocolate into large, imperfect chunks and keep in freezer until ready to serve. We recommend using the remaining rosemary and juniper berry blend to sprinkle the dark chocolate when serving at gatherings and holiday events. Keep any leftover chocolate in the freezer and enjoy as desired.
Note: Feel free to add any other preferred toppings to this mixture based on taste preferences, including dried nuts and fruits or other dried herbs and flowers.
