Chocolate isn’t just for desserts—it’s surprisingly flexible in ways you might not expect. Pairing it with unusual flavors can take it from sweet indulgence to a surprisingly complex ingredient, proving it’s not as one-dimensional as it seems. Some combinations might sound strange at first but deliver rich, balanced, and addictive results. Whether it’s salty, spicy, or savory, chocolate somehow elevates everything it touches. Here’s a closer look at some unexpected pairings that showcase just how versatile it can be.
Bacon
The salty, smoky crunch of bacon paired with rich, sweet chocolate creates a balance that’s downright addictive. Chocolate-coated bacon or a drizzle of chocolate over crispy strips turns indulgence into art.
Potato Chips
The salty crunch of potato chips complements the sweetness of chocolate beautifully. Think chocolate-dipped chips or simply using them to scoop up a chocolate fondue—perfect for sweet-and-salty fans.
Avocado
Creamy avocado pairs surprisingly well with chocolate in smoothies or mousse. Its neutral flavor lets the chocolate shine while adding a velvety texture. It’s dessert, but somehow it feels healthy.
Cheese
Pair chocolate with aged cheese like cheddar or Gouda for a sweet-meets-savory bite. The richness of the cheese amplifies the chocolate, making each flavor pop in an unexpected, delightful way.
Popcorn
Toss popcorn with melted chocolate for a crunchy snack with a sweet twist. The light, airy texture of popcorn contrasts perfectly with smooth chocolate, making it impossible to stop munching.
Chili Peppers
Spicy and sweet make a fiery match. Adding chili to chocolate, or eating chocolate with a hint of chili, creates a bold, complex flavor that’s both surprising and satisfying.
Bread
Think pain au chocolat, but beyond the classic pastry. Chocolate spread on sourdough or a slice of baguette gives you a treat that’s both rustic and indulgent—breakfast or dessert, you decide.
Pretzels
The crunch and salt of pretzels meet chocolate’s creamy sweetness for the ultimate snack combo. Whether dipped, drizzled, or sandwiched, this pairing always hits the mark.
Red Meat
Mole sauce proves that chocolate works with beef and other red meat. The subtle bitterness of dark chocolate balances the savory richness of meat, creating a dish that’s complex, hearty, and surprisingly harmonious.
Olive Oil
Chocolate and olive oil may sound strange, but the fruity notes in good olive oil complement dark chocolate beautifully. Try it drizzled over chocolate gelato for a sophisticated dessert.
Peanut Butter
A classic pairing that never fails. The nutty, salty richness of peanut butter blends seamlessly with chocolate’s sweetness. Spread, dip, or mix them—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it.
Sea Salt
A sprinkle of sea salt on chocolate enhances its sweetness and adds texture. It’s simple, but that little contrast of salty and sweet makes chocolate feel even more indulgent.
Coffee
Chocolate and coffee are a power duo. The bitterness of coffee enhances chocolate’s sweetness, making mocha desserts or a chocolate-dipped biscotti the perfect pick-me-up pairing.
Citrus (Orange/Lemon)
Chocolate and citrus create a bright, zesty pairing. The sharpness of orange or lemon cuts through the richness of chocolate, keeping it light and refreshing. Think candied orange dipped in dark chocolate.
Ginger
Spicy ginger pairs with chocolate for a combo that’s warm and slightly exotic. Chocolate-covered ginger or ginger chocolate cookies bring a cozy vibe with just the right amount of bite.
12 Overrated Chocolate Candy Bars Nobody Really Enjoys
We all have our favorite chocolate bars, but let’s be honest—not all of them deserve the hype. Some candy bars just don’t hit the mark. You know the ones: too bland, too sweet, or just plain disappointing. It’s surprising how popular some of these overrated treats are, considering they often leave us wanting more. From lackluster flavors to weird textures, these chocolate candy bars seriously miss the mark. Here are the ones that really don’t live up to their reputation in our opinion.
Read it Here: 12 Overrated Chocolate Candy Bars Nobody Really Enjoys
25 Excuses To Eat Chocolate For Breakfast And Not Feel Bad About It
Chocolate for breakfast? Yeah, it’s happening, and honestly, why not? These recipes ditch the boring stuff and give you the perfect excuse to start your morning with something sweet. Whether it’s muffins, waffles, or even oatmeal, you can sneak in some chocolate without a second thought. Easy to make and even easier to eat, these breakfast ideas are all about starting the day the right way—with plenty of chocolate.
Read it Here: 25 Excuses To Eat Chocolate For Breakfast And Not Feel Bad About It
*Select images provided by Depositphotos.
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
