Cacao Butter Recipes Vegan Lovers Will Adore

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Welcome to a delightful exploration of cacao butter recipes vegan style! Cacao butter, the pure fat extracted from cacao beans, is a luxurious ingredient prized for its rich, creamy texture and subtle chocolate aroma.

Unlike traditional butters, cacao butter is naturally plant-based, making it a perfect addition to vegan cooking and baking. Whether you’re looking to create luscious vegan chocolate treats, silky body butters, or nourishing skincare concoctions, cacao butter offers versatility and wholesome goodness.

In this post, we’ll uncover several easy and delicious vegan recipes featuring cacao butter. From decadent chocolates to energizing smoothies and homemade skincare balms, these recipes will inspire you to embrace cacao butter in your kitchen and beyond.

Let’s dive into the wonderful world of cacao butter and discover why it deserves a spot in your pantry!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cacao butter is a game changer for anyone who enjoys vegan cooking or crafting homemade products. It melts at body temperature, providing a smooth mouthfeel in chocolates and desserts without the dairy.

Its mild chocolate scent adds depth without overpowering other flavors, making it ideal for both sweet and savory dishes.

Moreover, cacao butter is packed with antioxidants and healthy fats, promoting skin hydration and health when used in topical recipes. Using cacao butter means you’re opting for a natural, minimally processed fat, free from additives and preservatives.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to work with, whether melting for baking or blending for beauty recipes.

These recipes will not only satisfy your taste buds but also add a touch of luxury and wellness to your everyday routine. Vegan, natural, and delicious—what’s not to love?

Ingredients

  • 100g cacao butter (organic, raw preferred)
  • 50g raw cacao powder (for chocolate recipes)
  • 50g coconut oil (refined or virgin)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 1/2 cup almond milk or other plant-based milk
  • Optional: nuts, dried fruits, or seeds (for toppings)
  • Essential oils (lavender, peppermint) for skincare recipes
  • Beeswax alternative (candelilla wax) for vegan balm recipes

Equipment

  • Double boiler or heatproof bowl and saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Silicone spatula or spoon
  • Chocolate molds or silicone molds
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Glass jars or tins (for skincare balms)
  • Thermometer (optional, for precision)

Instructions

Recipe 1: Vegan Cacao Butter Chocolate

  1. Melt the cacao butter gently using a double boiler. Avoid direct heat as it can scorch the butter.
  2. Add the coconut oil to the melted cacao butter and stir until fully combined.
  3. Whisk in the raw cacao powder gradually to avoid lumps, creating a smooth chocolate base.
  4. Mix in maple syrup and vanilla extract for natural sweetness and flavor depth.
  5. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt to enhance the chocolate’s flavor.
  6. Pour the mixture into silicone molds and add nuts or dried fruits if desired.
  7. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour or until solid.
  8. Pop out the chocolates and enjoy your vegan, paleo-friendly treat!

Recipe 2: Nourishing Vegan Cacao Butter Body Balm

  1. Combine 60g cacao butter, 30g coconut oil, and 10g candelilla wax in a double boiler.
  2. Heat gently until everything is melted and smooth.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in 10 drops of your favorite essential oil (lavender or peppermint are popular choices).
  4. Pour the mixture into clean glass jars or tins.
  5. Allow it to cool and solidify at room temperature or in the fridge.
  6. Use as a rich moisturizer for dry skin, lips, or cuticles.

Recipe 3: Vegan Cacao Butter Smoothie Boost

  1. Melt 1 tablespoon of cacao butter lightly, just until liquid but not hot.
  2. Blend it with 1 cup almond milk, 1 frozen banana, 1 tablespoon raw cacao powder, and your choice of sweetener.
  3. Add a handful of spinach or vegan protein powder for extra nutrition.
  4. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  5. Enjoy immediately for a decadent, energy-boosting treat.

Tips & Variations

“For the best texture in vegan chocolates, temper your cacao butter carefully by melting and cooling it to about 27°C before remelting slightly to 31°C.”

Use organic, raw cacao butter for the richest flavor and highest nutrient content. You can substitute maple syrup with agave or coconut nectar depending on your sweetness preference.

To make flavored body balms, experiment with different essential oils like chamomile, eucalyptus, or citrus. For a thicker balm, increase the candelilla wax slightly.

If you want to make a cacao butter lip balm, add a teaspoon of vitamin E oil for extra nourishment and shelf life.

For a twist on your smoothies, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per 1 tbsp Cacao Butter Per 30g Vegan Chocolate
Calories 120 180
Total Fat 13.5g 16g
Saturated Fat 8g 10g
Carbohydrates 0g 10g
Sugars 0g 8g
Protein 0g 2g
Antioxidants High High

Serving Suggestions

The vegan cacao butter chocolate is perfect as a midday treat or dessert. Pair it with fresh berries or vegan whipped cream for an indulgent experience.

The cacao butter body balm works wonderfully after a shower or before bed to lock in moisture and soothe dry skin.

Enjoy the cacao butter smoothie as a nutrient-packed breakfast or post-workout snack. Garnish with cacao nibs or shredded coconut for extra texture.

Looking for more vegan inspiration? Check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or whip up a comforting Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.

For a flavorful dip that pairs well with your cacao butter snacks, try the Halibut Dip Recipe.

Conclusion

Exploring cacao butter recipes vegan style opens up a world of delicious possibilities that are both healthy and indulgent. From decadent chocolates to nourishing body balms and vibrant smoothies, cacao butter enriches your creations with its creamy texture and subtle, natural flavor.

Its versatility makes it an invaluable staple for those embracing a vegan lifestyle or simply wishing to incorporate more plant-based ingredients into their diets.

By mastering these simple recipes, you can enjoy the benefits of cacao butter in your kitchen and self-care routine. Remember, the key to success is using high-quality, organic cacao butter and experimenting with flavors and textures that suit your taste.

Dive in, have fun, and savor every luscious bite or soothing application!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Cacao Butter Chocolate Bark

Description: A simple and delicious vegan chocolate bark using cacao butter for a smooth texture. Perfect as a healthy treat or gift.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT5M
Total Time: PT15M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 100g cacao butter
  • 50g raw cacao powder
  • 3 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 2 tbsp shredded coconut
  • 2 tbsp chopped almonds
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds

Instructions

  1. Melt cacao butter gently in a double boiler.
  2. Stir in raw cacao powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth.
  3. Pour mixture onto a lined baking tray.
  4. Sprinkle shredded coconut, chopped almonds, and chia seeds on top.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until firm.
  6. Break into pieces and serve.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 16g | Carbs: 8g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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