Chocolate Tahini Spread

1. Tahini can be found in most grocery stores in the peanut butter or international aisle. It can be sold under numerous names such as sesame butter, creamed sesame, sesame tahini, sesame paste, and ground sesame.
2. Try different brands of tahini to see what you like. Some are creamy, some are gritty, and the amount of bitterness can range from product to product.
3. When opening the tahini, the natural oils will separate and rise to the top. You must blend the tahini with the oil before using it.
4. Start with ¼ cup (2 ounces) of hot water. After whisking all the ingredients, if you find that you need more water, add 1 tablespoon at a time, and continue to whisk until you reach your desired consistency. You may find you need up to ½ cup water depending on the brand used.
5. Tahini spread will thicken in the refrigerator. Keep this in mind when adding your water.

Table of Contents

Nutrition*

Serving: 2 tablespoons (about 6 servings per yield) Calories: 183kcal Carbohydrates: 16.3g Protein: 3.8g Fat: 11.3g Saturated Fat: 1.8g Sodium: 854mg Potassium: 119mg Fiber: 1.9g Sugar: 12.2g Calcium: 7mg Iron: 2mg

*Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. Nutrition information can vary depending on many factors, such as products used, measurements and substitutions, therefore it is recommended that you obtain nutritional calculations based on your own finished recipe.

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Decadent Homemade Chocolate Tahini Spread: Your New Favorite Indulgence (Easier Than You Think!)

Prepare to meet your new obsession: this homemade Chocolate Tahini Spread is so incredibly rich, creamy, and satisfying, it will effortlessly rival any store-bought chocolate spread on the market – yes, even that famous hazelnut spread we all know (and might be tired of!). This exquisite chocolate sesame butter is a harmonious blend of deep, luxurious cocoa, the distinctive nutty notes of tahini, the natural sweetness of honey, a hint of warm vanilla, and a secret ingredient that elevates it to extraordinary heights: a touch of espresso powder. The result is an utterly irresistible spread that transforms ordinary toast, fresh fruit, simple desserts, and so much more into a gourmet experience. So, go ahead and indulge your senses—literally spread some joy with every spoonful!

A strawberry dipped into a jar of chocolate tahini spread on wood.

Why This Homemade Chocolate Tahini Spread Will Change Your Life (and Your Pantry!)

Let’s be honest, not everyone is a fan of the traditional hazelnut spread. For me, that popular jar (you know, the one that rhymes with ‘shmootella’!) always left something to be desired. I craved something truly dreamy, exquisitely creamy, and unbelievably chocolatey, but with a unique twist that most nut butters just couldn’t deliver. My quest led me to my pantry, specifically to that reliable bottle of tahini I typically reserve for making luscious hummus. And then, a moment of culinary inspiration struck! What if I combined the rich depth of tahini with cocoa? The result was an instant classic, satisfying every chocolate craving I had and then some.

While I’ve experimented with various chocolate nut butters like chocolate peanut butter and chocolate almond butter, they often fall short on the chocolate intensity. This chocolate sesame butter, however, hits all the right notes. It’s wonderfully nutty from the sesame, intensely rich with cocoa, perfectly sweet, and incredibly smooth. It truly checks every box for a decadent spread. You absolutely have to give it a try – it might just become your new favorite pantry staple!

What is Tahini? The Secret to a Unique Chocolate Spread

Tahini, also known by names like tahin, tahine, or tahina, is a versatile paste crafted from ground sesame seeds. This ancient ingredient holds a prominent place in the culinary traditions of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. The process of making tahini is surprisingly simple yet yields a complex flavor: sesame seeds are typically toasted to enhance their natural nuttiness, then finely ground until they achieve a smooth, creamy consistency, much like how peanut butter is made. This careful preparation extracts the rich oils from the seeds, creating a luxurious paste.

Beyond its texture, tahini paste boasts a distinctive flavor profile—it’s nutty, earthy, and often has a pleasant, slightly bitter undertone that adds depth to both savory and sweet dishes. Its versatility is legendary; you’ll find it in everything from the classic savory dip, hummus, to rich salad dressings, and even in a variety of sweet desserts and pastries. Given its popularity and wide application, tahini is now a common ingredient and can be readily found in most well-stocked grocery stores. When you’re shopping, look for it either alongside other nut butters or in the international foods aisle. Exploring different brands can also be an adventure, as each may offer subtle variations in flavor and texture, from ultra-creamy to slightly more rustic.

Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Chocolate Tahini Spread

Crafting this irresistible chocolate tahini spread requires just a few simple, high-quality ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this decadent treat, along with some tips for selecting the best options:

Ingredients for chocolate tahini spread on wood.

Cocoa Powder: This is where the magic of chocolate comes in! For the richest, most intense chocolate flavor, opt for a good quality unsweetened cocoa powder. Dutch-processed cocoa will give you a darker color and a milder, less bitter chocolate flavor, while natural cocoa powder offers a fruitier, more acidic note. Both work beautifully, so choose based on your preference.
Tahini: The star of the show! The quality of your tahini significantly impacts the final taste and texture. Use your favorite brand, but be aware that every tahini varies depending on its origin and processing. Some brands are inherently creamier and smoother, while others might have a slightly grittier texture or a more pronounced bitter edge. Don’t worry, the consistency can always be adjusted with water later. For a consistently smooth experience, a brand like Soom Tahini is often recommended for its creamy texture. Remember to stir it well before measuring!
Honey: This provides the perfect touch of natural sweetness and helps create a luscious, spreadable consistency. If you’re looking for alternatives or prefer a vegan option, feel free to swap honey for maple syrup or date syrup. A combination of honey and maple syrup can also be delightful!
Espresso Powder: Our secret ingredient! While you might not taste distinct coffee notes, a small amount of espresso powder remarkably enhances and deepens the flavor of the cocoa, making the chocolate taste even more intense and luxurious. Instant espresso powder or finely ground instant coffee will work wonders here.
Vanilla Extract: Just a touch of pure vanilla extract rounds out the flavors, adding a warm, aromatic complement to the rich cocoa and nutty tahini.
Salt: A pinch of sea salt or Kosher salt is crucial. It doesn’t make the spread salty, but rather balances out the sweetness and intensifies all the other flavors, bringing them into perfect harmony.
Water: This is your control for consistency. Hot (but not boiling) water helps to thin the spread to your desired creaminess. You’ll add it gradually until you achieve a wonderfully smooth and spreadable texture.

Minimal Equipment, Maximum Flavor: What You’ll Need

One of the best things about this chocolate tahini spread recipe is its simplicity, not just in ingredients, but also in the tools required. You won’t need any fancy gadgets or complicated machinery. All you truly need to whip up this delicious spread are a few basic kitchen essentials:

A Medium Mixing Bowl: Large enough to comfortably combine all your ingredients without spills.
A Whisk: Essential for vigorously blending everything together until smooth and creamy. A fork can work in a pinch, but a whisk will give you the best results.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurement, ensuring your spread turns out perfectly every time.

That’s it! No food processor or blender required, making cleanup a breeze and this recipe accessible to everyone, regardless of their kitchen setup.

Whip Up Your Chocolate Tahini Spread: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Making this creamy tahini spread with cocoa is incredibly straightforward, proving that some of the most delicious treats are also the simplest to prepare. Just a few minutes of mixing and whisking, and you’ll have a delectable spread ready to enjoy!

Ingredients in a clear mixing bowl for tahini chocolate.

Step 1: Combine All Ingredients. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add your measured tahini (make sure it’s well-stirred first!), cocoa powder, honey, vanilla extract, espresso powder, and salt. Pour in the initial ¼ cup of hot (not boiling) water. Gather all your components before you begin for a smooth process.

Chocolate tahini in a clear mixing bowl with a whisk on the side with dripping chocolate.

Step 2: Whisk Until Smooth and Adjust Consistency. Whisk all the ingredients vigorously and thoroughly until they are completely combined and form a smooth, creamy, lump-free spread. Start with the initial water, then assess the consistency. If you find the spread is too thick or difficult to mix, add more hot water, 1 tablespoon at a time, continuing to whisk until you achieve your desired spreadable consistency. Remember, the spread will naturally thicken further once it’s refrigerated, so aim for a slightly looser consistency if you prefer it very creamy when cold. Taste and adjust sweetness or salt if desired.

For detailed measurements and full instructions, please refer to the recipe card below.

📝 Expert Tips for the Best Chocolate Tahini Spread

Achieving the perfect chocolate tahini spread is simple, but a few expert tips can elevate your results:

Source Your Tahini Wisely: Tahini is widely available in most grocery stores, typically found in the peanut butter aisle or the international section. It goes by various names, including sesame butter, creamed sesame, sesame tahini, sesame paste, or ground sesame. Don’t be shy to ask if you can’t find it!
Experiment with Tahini Brands: Just like olive oil or coffee, tahini brands can differ significantly. Some are delightfully creamy and mild, while others might be grittier or possess a more intense, sometimes bitter, flavor profile. Don’t hesitate to try a few different brands to discover which one best suits your taste preferences for this chocolate spread.
Always Stir Your Tahini: When you first open a jar of tahini, you’ll often notice a layer of oil separated on top. This is completely normal! Before measuring or using, it’s crucial to stir the tahini paste thoroughly from the bottom up until the oil is fully re-incorporated and the mixture is consistently smooth. This ensures proper texture and flavor balance in your spread.
Start with Warm Water and Adjust Gradually: Begin by adding ¼ cup (which is 4 tablespoons or 2 ounces) of hot (but not boiling) water to your ingredients. After whisking everything together, carefully assess the consistency. If you desire a thinner, more easily spreadable consistency, add additional hot water, 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking well after each addition. The amount of water needed can vary slightly depending on your tahini brand, with some requiring up to ½ cup for optimal creaminess.
Consider Refrigeration for Thickness: It’s important to remember that your chocolate tahini spread will naturally thicken considerably once it’s refrigerated. Keep this in mind as you’re adjusting the consistency with water. If you want a spread that remains quite fluid even when cold, you might need to make it slightly thinner than your immediate serving preference.
Sift Your Cocoa Powder: For an extra smooth and lump-free spread, consider sifting your cocoa powder before adding it to the bowl. This helps prevent any stubborn cocoa clumps from forming in your final product.
Taste and Adjust: Once your spread is mixed, give it a quick taste test! This is your chance to adjust the sweetness by adding a tiny bit more honey or maple syrup, or to enhance the flavors further with an extra pinch of salt.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Chocolate Tahini Spread

This versatile chocolate tahini spread isn’t just a one-trick pony; it can be used in countless delightful ways, much like any other nut butter you love. And yes, if you just want to grab a spoon and dive straight into the jar, I promise – no one is watching, and we fully endorse it!

Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy this delicious creation:

On Toast or Bread: This is a classic for a reason! Spread generously on warm toast, a fresh croissant, or even a slice of crusty bread. For an extra special treat, top it with sliced bananas, berries, a sprinkle of nuts, or toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.
A Fantastic Dip for Fruit: Apples, bananas, strawberries, pear slices—they all find their perfect match with this creamy chocolate dip. Eating simple banana slices dipped in chocolate tahini is a moment of pure bliss. The rich chocolate and nutty tahini beautifully complement the natural sweetness of fruit.
Crepe and Pancake Filling: Elevate your breakfast or brunch! Make sweet crepes and fill them with a generous dollop of chocolate tahini. It also makes an incredible, rich topping for a tall stack of fluffy pancakes or waffles, easily replacing traditional maple syrup for a gourmet twist.
Upgrade Your Sandwich: Forget your usual spreads. For a unique take on a classic “fluffernutter” (peanut butter and marshmallow fluff) sandwich, simply swap out the peanut butter for this chocolate tahini spread. It’s a game-changer!
Stirred into Oatmeal or Yogurt: Add a tablespoon or two to your morning bowl of oatmeal or a plain yogurt for an instant boost of flavor, creaminess, and healthy fats. It’s a quick and easy way to make your breakfast more exciting.
Smoothie Enhancer: Pump up the flavor and nutritional value of your morning smoothie. Blend in 1 to 2 tablespoons for a creamy, chocolatey kick that keeps you full and satisfied.
Ice Cream Topping: Move over, traditional chocolate sauce! Warm up your chocolate tahini spread slightly and drizzle it over your favorite scoop of vanilla, coffee, or even pistachio ice cream for an unbelievably rich and sophisticated dessert.
Drizzled on Baked Goods: Use it as a glaze or drizzle over muffins, cakes, brownies, or even cookies for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness and a hint of sesame flavor.

Chocolate tahini spread in a clear jay with a spreader scooping some out.

Chocolate tahini spread on toast with sesame seeds on top on top of a wood surface.

Storing Your Delicious Chocolate Tahini Spread

Proper storage is key to keeping your homemade chocolate tahini spread fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Once prepared, transfer your spread into a clean, airtight container. I highly recommend using glass jars, such as recycled jam jars, as they prevent the spread from absorbing any residual odors that plastic containers might harbor over time. Stored in the refrigerator, this delightful spread will maintain its quality and flavor for up to one month. Remember that it will thicken in the fridge, so allow it to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, or gently warm it slightly, if you prefer a softer, more spreadable consistency.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Why This Recipe Shines

In a world full of convenient store-bought options, you might wonder why bother making your own chocolate tahini spread. The answer lies in quality, control, and unparalleled flavor. When you make it yourself, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring no artificial flavors, excessive sugars, or unwanted preservatives. This recipe uses wholesome, natural ingredients like real cocoa, pure honey (or maple syrup), and authentic tahini, offering a healthier profile compared to many commercial spreads that can be high in refined sugars and questionable oils. The freshness of homemade is simply incomparable, and the ability to customize the sweetness, richness, and even the type of tahini used allows for a truly personalized and superior taste experience that store-bought versions simply can’t replicate.

Delicious Variations & Customizations

This chocolate tahini spread recipe is fantastic as is, but it also serves as a wonderful base for creative variations. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

Make it Vegan: Easily adapt this recipe for a vegan diet by simply swapping out the honey for an equal amount of maple syrup or date syrup. The result is just as rich and delicious!
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or tangerine zest for a bright, aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate and sesame.
Spice It Up: A pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or even a tiny dash of cayenne pepper can add a warm, complex, and intriguing layer of flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Stir in some finely chopped toasted nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds for added texture and a deeper nutty flavor.
Coconut Flavor: For a tropical hint, consider using a very small amount of coconut extract or even a tiny swirl of coconut oil, though be mindful of altering the consistency.
Extra Salt Flakes: For those who love sweet and salty, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of your spread (especially on toast or fruit) can truly make the flavors pop.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Tahini Spread

Got questions about making or enjoying your chocolate tahini spread? We’ve got answers!

Why is my tahini spread too thick?

Tahini brands vary significantly in consistency and oil content. Some tahinis are naturally thicker or grittier than others. If your spread is too thick, simply add more hot water, one tablespoon at a time, and whisk vigorously until you achieve your desired smooth, spreadable consistency. Remember that it will thicken further once refrigerated.

Is chocolate tahini spread healthy?

Compared to many commercial chocolate spreads, homemade chocolate tahini spread can be a healthier alternative. Tahini itself is a good source of healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium. Cocoa powder provides antioxidants. Using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup further improves its nutritional profile. While it’s still an indulgence, it offers more beneficial nutrients than many highly processed options.

Can I use a food processor to make this spread?

While a simple bowl and whisk are perfectly sufficient for this recipe, you can absolutely use a food processor for an even smoother, creamier result, especially if your tahini is on the grittier side. Simply add all ingredients to the food processor and blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. This can also help ensure the ingredients are thoroughly combined.

How long does chocolate tahini spread last at room temperature?

For optimal freshness and safety, it’s best to store this chocolate tahini spread in the refrigerator. While tahini itself can be stored at room temperature, the addition of honey (or other syrups) and water makes it more perishable. Always keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last for up to one month.

More Spreads to Love: Discover New Pantry Staples!

If you’ve fallen in love with the versatility and deliciousness of homemade spreads, don’t stop here! Explore some of these other delightful recipes that are perfect for enhancing your breakfasts, snacks, and desserts:

Refrigerator Blueberry Earl Grey Jam
Small Batch Strawberry Rhubarb Jam
Whipped Strawberry Basil Butter
Roasted Garlic Pesto Sauce

Did you make this recipe? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and a comment right below the recipe card to share your experience. If you snap a photo of your delicious creation, don’t forget to tag us on Instagram @brunchandbatter. We can’t wait to see your spreads!

📖 Recipe: Homemade Chocolate Tahini Spread