Youth Mental Health Program Manager, Sullivan 180

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the many ways we can support overall well-being, including the foods we choose each day. Craving chocolate but looking for a more balanced option? This Almond Blueberry Dark Chocolate Bark is a simple, no-bake treat that is sweet, crunchy, and easy to customize.

Made with dark chocolate, blueberries, and almonds, this recipe highlights ingredients that provide nutritional value and have been studied for their potential role in supporting brain health and overall well-being.

Dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher) contains flavonoids that have been associated with supporting healthy blood flow to the brain, which may help with focus and cognitive performance. It also contains small amounts of caffeine and theobromine, compounds that may contribute to alertness and mood.

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which have been studied for their role in helping protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. Some research suggests these compounds may be linked to memory and learning.

Almonds provide vitamin E, an antioxidant that has been associated with long-term brain health. They also contain healthy fats and protein, which can help support steady energy levels throughout the day.

Small shifts, like choosing desserts made with whole, nutrient-dense ingredients, can be one way to support overall health over time. Recipes like this show that enjoying something sweet can still be part of a balanced approach to eating.

Ingredients

1 ½ cup dark chocolate chips (70% cacao or higher)

2 cups of fresh blueberries 

1 cup chopped roasted almonds

1 tablespoon coconut oil 

Directions

Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper (leave a little overhang to make lifting the bark easier).

Spread the blueberries evenly across the bottom of the pan.

Sprinkle the chopped almonds over the blueberries.

Melt the chocolate and coconut oil together, either in the microwave in short bursts (50% power, stirring in between) or using a double boiler.

Pour the melted chocolate over the blueberries and almonds, spreading it so everything’s nicely covered.

Pop the pan in the freezer for at least an hour until set. Then lift the bark out, break it into pieces, and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. 

Tips & Tricks

Swap in your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or seeds for endless flavor combos. 

A tiny sprinkle of sea salt really makes the chocolate pop. 

This treat is perfect for snacking, dessert, or even a little homemade gift.

Sullivan 180 is a non-profit organization dedicated to building a healthy community one degree at a time through people, places and policy, with an intentional focus on prevention and empowering a healthier generation. Sullivan 180 has partnered with the Sullivan County Democrat and Claire Burns to bring you delicious and nutritious recipes on the first Friday of every month. For more information on the work of Sullivan 180, visit Sullivan180.org.