It is hard to describe the mole sauce test unless you have tested it yourself. It is not only spicy, sweet, or savory. It combined all these things together. Recently, I just made a Mole with peanut butter and chocolate recipe.
It was rich, rich, bold, and crazy.
So if you heard about it but never tried it, or you tried but never made it at home because it sounds complicated, then you should try this version.
You can make it with just a few ingredients like the traditional moles, peanut butter, chocolate combo, etc.
In this post, I will walk you through how you can make this mole with peanut butter and chocolate recipe step-by-step,
Plus, I will also share how you can tweak the spicy level, what you can serve with it, how you can make it vegan and gluten-free, or even tips to use leftovers smartly.
What Makes This Mole with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Special?
Firstly, understand that mole is not just one sauce; it’s a category of causes from Mexican cuisine.
It is often made during a special occasion, like at weddings, birthday parties, etc.
Use various ingredients like chilies, seeds, spices, fruits, and chocolate. And traditional mole takes time.
So, what makes this mole with peanut butter and chocolate recipe special is that it captures deep layer taste but in a faster and more accessible way.
Peanut butter gives this recipe creaminess and a subtle nutty kick (so you won’t have to toast and grind a dozen seeds).
Chocolate, especially dark chocolate or Mexican-style chocolate, will add richness and a slight bitterness to balance out all the spices and chili.
Besides this, I have noticed that when we mix peanut butter and chocolate together in mole, it becomes more smooth, and flavors get more developed as it gets cooled. And maybe that’s why it tastes even better the next day.
Also read: Chilli Con Carne Slow Cooker Using Packet Mix Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Easy Mole
Here are all the ingredients that you need to make this easy mole peanut butter and chocolate recipe.
And I think most of these ingredients would be available in your homes.
However, I will also suggest some ingredient substitutes. In case you’re missing an ingredient, you can go with the alternative.
Core Ingredients
- 2 dried ancho chiles: It will add a deep, smoky flavor without overwhelming heat. You can find these in most international sections or spice shops and even on Amazon.
- 1 dried pasilla chile: It’s an optional ingredient, but if you want an earthy kick, use it.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: it will add sweetness and body.
- 3 garlic cloves: Consider using fresh garlic. It’s important, so you shouldn’t skip or substitute it.
- 1 tomato, chopped: I recommend ripe Roma tomatoes for this mole with peanut butter and chocolate recipe.
- 2 tablespoons of smooth peanut butter: You should use natural peanut butter that doesn’t contain sugar if possible. You can use 365 Organic or Justin’s Classic for a smooth texture.
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder or 1 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa): You should use Ghirardelli, Lindt, or even Abuelita chocolate if you want a Mexican touch. Besides this, you can use other brands; just make sure they’re of high quality.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: it’s to add a nuttiness. If not available, you can skip it or simply replace it with more peanut butter.
- 1 corn tortilla (torn into small pieces): It will thicken the mole naturally. If not available, you can also use a slice of bread or a few crushed crackers.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: You should try using Ceylon cinnamon for a milder, aromatic touch.
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Go light on this; too much will dominate, and I guess you won’t live it (I don’t).
- 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth: Use low-sodium. If you’re making it vegan, then go with veggie broth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: You can adjust based on your taste preference.
Optional Add-ins
- 1 tsp brown sugar or maple syrup: It is if you want a little more sweetness
- A pinch of chili flakes: If you like heat, toss this in.
- 1 tbsp raisins: It is also totally optional, but it will give a fruity undertone if you want a traditional touch
Also read: Easy Chili with Cocoa Powder and Cinnamon Recipe
Step-by-Step: How to Make Mole with Peanut Butter and Chocolate
Here is the exact step-by-step recipe mentioned that I used and recommend you follow.
Plus, I also recommend that you prepare ingredients first so the cooking flow is smooth.
Step 1: Prep and Toast the Chiles
Firstly, you have to remove stems and seeds from the dried chiles. And then tear them into pieces.
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
Then, add the chile pieces and toast them for 20–30 seconds on each side.
You’ll start smelling a deep smokiness.
An important thing to remember: You shouldn’t burn them because if you over-toast, they turn bitter, which will ruin the taste.
Now, soak them in warm water for about 15 minutes until they get soft.
Once soft, drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In the same pan, you have to add a little oil and toss in some chopped onions.
Sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft.
Now add:
- Garlic
- Chopped Tomato
- Sesame seeds
Cook everything for another 3 minutes until tomatoes start breaking down automatically.
This base will give body and richness to your sauce.
Step 3: Blend It Smooth
Now, you have to transfer the sautéed mixture into a blender.
Add then add these ingredients:
- Softened chiles
- Peanut butter
- Chocolate (or cocoa powder)
- Cinnamon
- Cumin
- loves
- Broken tortilla
- 1 cup broth
You have to blend until they are smooth. If the mixture looks too thick, you should add a little more broth.
Note: You want the sauce texture like a thick cream soup, not a paste.
Step 4: Simmer the Mole
Pour the blended mole into a saucepan. Then, add the remaining broth.
Simmer over low heat for about 15–20 minutes. And make sure you’re stirring it occasionally, otherwise so it will stick.
During this time, the flavors will get deeper, and the sauce will be thicker.
Btw, you should taste and adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness.
And if it’s too thick, you should add some more broth.
Too thin? Then, Simmer it more.
Also read: White Chocolate Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Pro Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Chocolate Mole
You should follow these tips if you want to make the perfect mole with peanut butter and chocolate recipe.
- Use natural peanut butter: You shouldn’t use the sugary one as this recipe is about savory creaminess, not dessert.
- Dark chocolate is better: It will balance flavor better than milk chocolate. And also, it will give depth.
- Don’t skip blending: A smooth mole is what makes it delicious.
- Let it rest: Mole tastes better after sitting. If you make it 1 day in advance, the flavors really bloom; you should try it.
- Double the batch: This mole recipe can be stored or frozen easily. So always make extra!
Ingredient Substitutes: What If You’re Missing Something?
I know sometimes we don’t have everything available in the kitchen. As they are in the kitchen, not the grocery store.
However, here’s how you can still make mole with a similar taste.
- No dried chiles: You should use chipotle in adobo (1 tbsp) + smoked paprika (1 tsp) for smoky heat.
- No tortilla: Use a slice of bread or a few saltines to thicken.
- No sesame seeds: Use tahini (1 tsp) or just skip altogether
- Vegan: Consider using veggie broth and check your chocolate brand, too.
- No blender: Go with an immersion blender or even a food processor. It may not be 100% silky, but it still works fine.
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Chocolate Mole
This mole with peanut butter and chocolate recipe is warm, smooth, and flavorful, and that’s why you can serve too many things with it, depending on your mood.
Here are some options that I recommend, but you can try others, too.
Classic Pairing: Chicken Mole
If you have ever had a chicken mole in a Mexican restaurant, you already know this version works perfectly.
You have to pour it over grilled or roasted chicken thighs or even leftover rotisserie chicken.
Top with sesame seeds and serve with rice or tortillas.
Tacos or Enchiladas
You can use it as a sauce for beef or veggie enchiladas. Besides this, you can also spread it on warm tortillas.
Add some filling like peas, mushrooms, cheese, etc. And then drizzle mole over them. It will be amazing.
Rice Bowl
I personally love scooping it over brown rice or even quinoa, as I go to the gym and often eat brown rice. Plus, some avocado slices and pickled onions on the side.
It makes a perfect balanced meal.
Mole Nachos
You can layer some chips with beans, veggies, and cheese and drizzle hot mole sauce.
And then, pop it in the oven, and then a spicy, creamy tray will be ready.
As a Dip
I know that it might sound odd to you, but you can use leftover mole as a dip for roasted sweet potatoes, fries, or crusty bread.
It’s rich and versatile; just give it a try.
Also read: Easy Banana Bars without Frosting Recipe
Variations You Can Try with This Mole Recipe
Here are some flavor twists and customizations that’ll give you new experiences every time you make a mole peanut butter and chocolate recipe:
Spicy Mole
You want to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chipotle pepper for heat lovers.
Btw don’t forget to add extra chocolate or sugar to balance the taste when it gets too spicy.
Sweet Mole
If you’re serving with salty sides, you should add a few raisins while blending to give the mole a fruity lift.
Vegan Mole
You should consider skipping chicken broth and instead, you should use vegetable broth.
Besides this, consider using dairy-free chocolate like Lindt 70% or Endangered Species 88% (just check the label) when purchasing.
Mole Pasta
You should try tossing cooked penne or spaghetti.
Plus, add a few spoonfuls of warm mole and top with cheese or crispy onions. Although cheese will increase the calories, it tastes good.
Breakfast Mole
This is one of my favorites.
You have to make scrambled eggs and drizzle mole sauce over them.
Then, add toast on the side.
Nutrition Info (Approximate, Per Serving – Makes 4 servings)
- Calories: 250–300 kcal
- Fat: 18–20g
- Carbohydrates: 20–25g
- Protein: 5–7g
- Sugar: 4–6g
- Fiber: 4–6g
Note: Calories may vary depending on your add-ons for the mole with peanut butter and chocolate recipe.
For example, if you’re using more peanut butter or dark chocolate.
But the good thing is, it’s rich enough that a little goes a long way.
Conclusion
This is my own mole with peanut butter and chocolate recipe, and yeah, it’s a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, savory, and creamy.
Plus, it’s not as complicated as a traditional mole, which some people find hard, as they don’t wanna make too much effort.
You can make it on any regular day without waiting for some grand occasion.
Besides this, you can customize it, like you can make it vegan, make it spicy, serve it with chicken, drizzle it over rice, dip your fries in it… do whatever you want. Everything is in your hand.
Also, make sure to store the leftover mole in a jar and try it the next day, too, because I did and found it tastes better because all flavors get together and absorb properly.
So now, go try this recipe, bookmark it, and share it with someone who should try this easy mole with peanut butter and chocolate recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some important questions and their answers regarding the mole with peanut butter and chocolate recipe.
Can I make a mole without dried chiles?
Yes, you can make this recipe if you don’t have dried chilies.
You just have to use one tablespoon of chipotle in adobo sauce, plus a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder; both work well.
However, it won’t exactly taste the same, but still, it will give you smoky heat and make it more special.
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of smooth?
Well, technically, you can use that, but I personally don’t recommend it.
Because chunky peanut butter won’t give you the velvety, creamy texture that generally this mole peanut butter and chocolate recipe should have.
However, if it is all that you have, then you can blend it very well to make it more smooth and then use it.
How long can I store mole sauce?
If you have leftover moles, you can store them in an airtight container and refrigerate them. It will be good for about 4 days, and it will also taste good.
However, if you want to store it for a longer time, then you should freeze it, and it will last about 2 months.
And next time, when you want to eat, you will have to reheat it slowly and keep stirring it.
But I recommend fresh or just a few days old.
Mole with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Recipe
Ingredients
Core Ingredients:
- 2 dried ancho chiles
- 1 dried pasilla chile optional
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 tomato chopped
- 2 tbsp smooth peanut butter natural, no sugar
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder or 1 oz dark chocolate 70% cocoa
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 corn tortilla torn into pieces
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp cumin powder
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth low-sodium
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 tsp brown sugar or maple syrup
- A pinch of chili flakes
- 1 tbsp raisins
Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Toast the Chiles
- Remove stems and seeds from the dried chiles and tear them into pieces.
- Toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 20–30 seconds per side.
- Soak toasted chiles in warm water for 15 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
- In the same skillet, add a little oil.
- Sauté chopped onion for 4–5 minutes.
- Add garlic, tomato, and sesame seeds. Cook for 3 minutes.
Step 3: Blend the Mole
- Transfer the mixture to a blender. Add:
- Soaked chiles
- Peanut butter
- Chocolate or cocoa
- Cinnamon, cumin, cloves
- Torn tortilla
- 1 cup broth
- Blend until smooth. Add more broth if too thick.
Step 4: Simmer to Finish
- Pour blended mole into a saucepan.
- Add remaining broth. Simmer on low for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning and consistency as needed.
Notes
As a passionate home cook and food enthusiast, I’m specialize in recreating popular café and restaurant-style chocolate recipes at home. I have experience in testing and customizing various chocolate-based dishes, I focus on using fresh, high-quality ingredients to make preservative-free, delicious treats. My goal is to help chocolate lovers enjoy their favorite recipes with a homemade touch and personalized twists.
