Usually when I see the words “gluten-free, egg-free, dairy-free and vegan” to describe a recipe, I brace myself for the worst. But, once again, my friends over at Zest Nutrition have managed to create a super-healthy treat that’s incredibly tasty.

This silky avocado chocolate mousse comes from the kitchen of co-founder Anna Rosinoff, who grew up with “chocolate o’ clock” as a time-honored tradition in her family. So when she’s not applying her expertise in counseling and health promotion to develop workplace wellness programs, Anna’s brainstorming delicious ways to incorporate her favorite sweet into wholesome, nourishing recipes.

Don’t let the avocado throw you for a loop; with no refined sugars, un-pronouncable ingredients or bad fats, this dessert will pass a taste test from even the most discerning chocolate connoisseurs!

Zest Nutrition’s Avocado Chocolate Mousse

Ingredients: 

• 1/2 avocado
• 1 very large, very ripe banana
• 1/2 cup unsweetened powdered baking chocolate
• 2 TBSP vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup agave nectar or honey

Directions: 

1. Combine all ingredients in food processor.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Enjoy immediately, or chill in fridge for around 30 minutes.

Since Ben and I have a, ahem, healthy appreciation for chocolate, I thought it’d be best to start with a double batch of mousse.

My bananas were just starting to ripen up, so next time I’ll look for some with spots to make sure they’re softer and sweeter.

Next comes the cocoa and vanilla — and I used a little less than a cup of agave since it’s pretty potent.

After the initial blend, scrape the sides of the food processor and blend again until there are no more lumps.

It’s got a lovely pudding-like consistency, and there’s a subtle hint of banana, but you can’t even taste the avocado.

Eat it plain, or top with nuts, berries or something crunchy if you want to break up the smooth texture (I opted for unsweetened shredded coconut).

Do you celebrate chocolate o’ clock in your house?