Desserts that actually may be good for your health

Valrohna Caribe Dark Chocolate Mousses with Lilikoi Sauce ($5.99 each)

As strong-minded as anyone may be, somewhere deep inside there’s a soft spot to give in to. For many foodies out there, this tender temptation falls right in line with some sweet chocolatey goodness.

Check in to Fendu Boulangerie, a French-inspired bakery in Manoa Marketplace that presents a delightful showcase of an array of cocoa treats that are baked fresh daily.

Dark Chocolate Chunk Brownies ($3.25 each)

For something that’s a little more decadent yet not overwhelmingly sweet, Niel Koep, owner and chef of the bakery, recommends Valrohna Dark Chocolate Dome ($5.99). This visually appealing dessert is just as yummy on the taste buds, especially with its quality ingredients.

“Valrohna is the brand name. It’s chocolate from France, but the beans are from Madagascar and it’s really nice. It’s a strong cocoa flavor,” explains Koep.

Valrohna Dark Chocolate Domes ($5.99 each)

Within the shiny glazed dome awaits chocolate mousse and a Grand Marnier creme brulee. The bottom layer is a chocolate chunk sponge cake that rests atop an almond cookie base. It’s exquisitely topped off with an edible gold flake.

Valrohna Caribe Dark Chocolate Mousse with Lilikoi Sauce ($5.99) is another viable option that comprises lilikoi sauce at the bottom, and chocolate mousse on top. “This one (the chocolate beans) is caribe which means it’s from the Caribbean,” says Koep. “It has more of an acidic taste that matches well with the lilikoi sauce.”

Chocolate Chunk Macadamia Nut Cookies ($2.50 each)

Straddling the top of the treat is cocoa powder and raw cocoa beans that are roasted and chopped.

There also are little crispy pearls that provide a pleasant crunchy texture to the smooth mousse.

The next time you might feel “guilty” about your next cheat day … don’t! In addition to the delightful taste and aroma of these chocolate goods, dark chocolate is scientifically proven to provide a long list of health benefits. Indulge gleefully and enjoy this powerful source of antioxidants that also happens to improve blood flow and lower blood pressure.

Need more reasons? According to healthline.com, dark chocolate also may reduce heart disease risk, protect your skin from the sun’s rays and improve brain function.

Stop into this lovely bakery that also has kid-friendly bites like Chocolate Chunk Macadamia Nut Cookies ($2.50 each) and Dark Chocolate Chunk Brownies ($3.25 each). These are very popular items among patrons of all ages Koep notes, also cheerfully adding, “But, of course you don’t have to be a kid to like brownies and cookies!”