From mielie-meal to pancakes: 8 ways to start your day with chocolate

It’s World Chocolate Day!

Indulgent and satisfying, chocolate has long held a special place in our hearts and taste buds. Its rich and velvety texture and irresistible sweetness make it a delightful treat for any time of the day. But did you know that chocolate can also make for a surprisingly delightful breakfast option?

Despite its reputation as an indulgence, chocolate holds surprising health benefits that can be enjoyed in the morning hours. Dark chocolate, in particular, is known for its high content of antioxidants, which can contribute to heart health and even boost brain function. Chocolate can also provide a gentle energy boost to kickstart your day.

So here are a few ways to include some yummy chocolate as part of your breakfast.

Banana pancakes with espresso chocolate sauce

Let’s start with a breakfast staple but make it chocolate! Pancakes are always a great way to start the day and are ideal if you’ve got a family to feed. Add the espresso chocolate sauce and you’ve got the perfect start to your day.

Blueberry and chocolate smoothie bowls with granola chocolate chips and banana

Want a healthy and nutritious breakfast that doesn’t take forever to make? Look no further! This lovely smoothie bowl has blueberries, bananas, honey and chocolate that you can add together in 10 minutes for a cheerful brekkie before you start your day.

Sweet potato chocolate-chunk muffins

For a quick breakfast on the go when you’re running late, something to pop into the kids’ lunchbox or brunch with the in-laws over the weekend – these muffins are great for brekkie or an anytime snack. Plus, they’re so simple to make and contain many staples you already have in your pantry.

Dark chocolate mielie-meal porridge

We can hear you saying, “Dark chocolate mielie-meal?” in an exasperated voice, but we promise it’s delicious. The cocoa powder gives it a nice chocolatey taste, while the addition of nut butter, maple syrup and ground cinnamon gives this breakfast recipe depth of flavour and you’ll get a nice boost from the nutritious, filling porridge. Add sliced banana and toasted nuts for some gorgeous texture too.

Peppermint Crisp and chocolate waffle ice cream sandwiches

Want something extra decadent? Need a weekend treat to look forward to? Ice cream for breakfast is the perfect treat after a long week! And no, it’s never too cold for ice cream – especially when it comes sandwiched between two chocolate waffles.

Sweet omelette with figs and brandy chocolate sauce

Who says omelettes can’t be sweet? Surprise your loved one with breakfast in bed with this decadent but simple breakfast that will take them on a journey of exquisite flavours with a delightful balance of sweetness and lightness. We guarantee it will be a hit.

Waffles on a stick dipped in melted chocolate sauce

The perfect combination of breakfast indulgence and portable convenience: waffles on a stick dipped in a velvety pool of melted chocolate sauce. This is great for kids and can be served with ice cream, decorated with rainbow sweets or mini marshmallows.

Chocolate overnight oats

This one is so quick and easy, you’ll barely remember making it but will be pleasantly surprised the next day when you open the fridge to a chocolatey surprise in a jar that you can take to work or eat right at your kitchen table.