Decadent Chocolatecovered Stuffed Dates
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: Get Ready for Decadent Chocolate Dates !
Ever find yourself craving something sweet, but not too sweet? I hear ya! These chocolate dates are my go-to. They're like little bites of heaven.
We're talking rich, dark chocolate wrapped around chewy Medjool dates stuffed with creamy almond butter. Honestly, what's not to love?
These aren't your average holiday sweets , you know? Originating from the Middle East, dates have been a staple for centuries.
This recipe elevates the humble date into a sophisticated treat. It's beginner friendly, taking about 40 minutes total. You'll end up with 12 perfect date night dessert ideas … or just a delicious snack for yourself!
Why You'll Obsess Over This Chocolate Dates Recipe
Forget those overly processed sweets! These chocolate dates are packed with goodness. Dates are naturally high in fiber and antioxidants.
Plus, dark chocolate has its own set of health benefits. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion. Or when you just need a little pick-me-up.
What makes these truly special is the combination of textures and flavors. It´s like the perfect sweet and salty marriage between Chocolate Covered Dates .
From Our Kitchen to Yours: A Sweet Little Story
Honestly, the first time I made these, I nearly ate the entire batch myself. I had to physically restrain myself to save some for my friends.
The almond butter filling really takes this to another level. This almond butter stuffed dates recipe is easy, but feels so fancy, which I love to do.
Quick and Easy Food and Ingredients to get you started!
Ready to dive in? First, you'll need some Medjool dates. Also you will need almond butter, dark chocolate, and flaky sea salt.
The key to really good chocolate dates? high-quality dark chocolate. Trust me, it makes all the difference. More about the ingredient list in the next section.
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Ingredients & Equipment
Alright, let's chat about what you'll need for these chocolate dates . It's pretty simple, really. Think of it as a fancy twist on something classic.
I made this Chocolate Dates Recipe last christmas and my friends just loved them, so I'm sharing it with you!
Main Ingredients
- 12 large Medjool dates (about 350g / 12 oz ), pitted.
- 1/2 cup ( 120g / 4.2 oz ) smooth almond butter.
- 1 tablespoon ( 15ml / 0.5 fl oz ) maple syrup (or honey).
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt.
- 6 oz ( 170g ) dark chocolate ( 70% cacao or higher).
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional).
For the dates, bigger is better. Medjool dates are the best. They're soft and caramel-y. The Dark Chocolate Dates Recipe needs good chocolate. Splurge a little; you deserve it.
Seasoning Notes
For that umami kick, don’t skimp on the sea salt. It balances the sweetness. A dash of cinnamon in the almond butter? Oh my gosh, yes! It's all about those little touches.
If you don't have maple syrup, honey works just as well. For a bit of zing, try orange zest. The combination of chocolate and orange makes these holiday sweets irresistible, and you can have a very easy dessert recipe in just a few minutes!
Equipment Needed
- Small bowl
- Mixing bowl
- Double boiler or microwave safe bowl
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Fork or dipping tools
Honestly, you probably have all this stuff already. Don't have a double boiler? No worries. A heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water works perfectly.
Parchment paper is a lifesaver for easy cleanup too. These Quick and Easy Food , like our Chocolate Covered Dates are designed to be stress free.
I hope you make it a great Date Night Dessert Ideas .
These Stuffed Medjool Dates are going to be amazing. Let's get started!
Decadent Chocolate Dates: The Ultimate Treat
Honestly, who doesn't love a bit of indulgence ? These Chocolate Dates are where it's at! Forget boring holiday sweets , we are making something special.
These are the perfect quick and easy food option when you are in a bind. We're talking stuffed Medjool dates slathered in rich chocolate, and it's easier than you think.
Think of it as date night, but with dessert involved. These could be a nice gift as well.
Prep Steps: Getting Our Ducks in a Row
First things first, let’s get organised. This is the "mise en place," as fancy chefs say. Pit your dates. It's not rocket science but a small knife helps.
Mix the filling. Safety first! Make sure your chocolate melting setup is stable. We don't want any hot chocolate spills.
Aim to get this done in 20 minutes, as we need to chill them for 15 minutes after, but we can do it.
step-by-step: Turning Dates into Delights
- Slice each date lengthwise, creating a pocket. Be gentle!
- Mix almond butter, maple syrup, and sea salt in a bowl.
- Stuff each date with the almond butter mixture. I love the rich taste of almond butter stuffed dates .
- Chill the Chocolate Dates for 15 minutes . This helps the filling firm up.
- Melt the dark chocolate in 30-second intervals in the microwave. Stir to avoid burning. Add coconut oil for extra smoothness. Now you're ready to create the perfect Chocolate Covered Dates .
- Dip each chilled date into the melted chocolate. Make sure to coat completely.
- Place on parchment paper and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Let the chocolate set completely. Speed it up by chilling in the fridge for 10- 15 minutes .
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Date Game
Use high-quality dark chocolate. Trust me, you'll taste the difference! Avoid overheating the chocolate. Burnt chocolate is a no-go . You can make the filling a day ahead.
I found that sometimes, chilling the dates first helps the chocolate set better. Also, another great recipe is this Dark Chocolate Dates Recipe , which is a favourite!.
These are easy dessert recipes anyone can master. This Chocolate Dates Recipe will be the talk of the town. And there you have it! Delicious, decadent, and surprisingly simple Chocolate Dates .
These are great for parties, gifts, or just a bit of self love. So go on, treat yourself! You deserve it!
Alright, you’ve got your shopping list ready for these decadent Chocolate Dates . But before you dive in headfirst, let’s chat about a few things to keep in mind.
These tips will make your Chocolate Dates Recipe even more amazing. Honestly, a little planning goes a long way!
Recipe Notes and Pro Tips
Let's cover the little tricks and extras of our Quick and Easy Food so you can nail it like a Michelin chef
Serving Suggestions: Show Off Your Holiday Sweets !
Think about how to plate these beauties! For a fancy touch, arrange them on a platter with some fresh berries.
You could also serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Now that's what I call a Date Night Dessert Ideas ! Pair them with a rich, dark coffee or a dessert wine.
This contrast is divine.
Storage Tips: Make These Chocolate Covered Dates Last
Got leftovers? I doubt it. But hey, life happens! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep them longer, freezing is an option. Wrap each date individually and freeze for up to a month.
Let them thaw in the fridge before serving. Reheating isn't really needed, but if the Dark Chocolate Dates Recipe tastes better to you at room temp, allow that.
Variations: Spice Up Your Almond Butter Stuffed Dates !
Fancy a twist? Swap out the almond butter for peanut butter or cashew butter. For a vegan version, use vegan chocolate and maple syrup.
Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chocolate for a spicy kick! Another great idea is to swap in-season stuff.
For example, in summer, try stuffing them with fresh raspberries before dipping.
Nutrition Basics: A (Slightly) Healthier Indulgence
Each Chocolate Dates has about 220 calories. You also get around 4g of protein, 13g of fat, 25g of carbs and 3g of fiber.
Remember, it's an estimate. Stuffed Medjool Dates offer some decent fiber and the dark chocolate has antioxidants.
So there you have it! A few extra tips to elevate your Easy Dessert Recipes and Chocolate Dates . Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
Have fun and remember, the most important ingredient is love! Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Chocolate Dates, and are they really that easy to make?
Chocolate Dates are Medjool dates stuffed with a delicious filling (like almond butter), then dipped in rich chocolate and often sprinkled with sea salt. Yes, they're surprisingly easy! Think of it like a no-bake rocky road, but a bit posher.
The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking perfect for a quick treat or impressing your mates with your fancy pants baking skills.
Can I use different types of chocolate or fillings for my Chocolate Dates?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment. Milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even a spicy chili infused dark chocolate would work beautifully. For the filling, you could swap almond butter for peanut butter, cashew butter, or even a homemade caramel. Get creative, it’s your show!
How should I store leftover Chocolate Dates to keep them fresh?
To keep your Chocolate Dates in tip-top shape, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll stay fresh for up to a week, though they're unlikely to last that long! You can also freeze them for longer storage (up to a month), but the texture of the dates might change slightly upon thawing.
Just make sure you have them wrapped properly.
Are Chocolate Dates healthy? I mean, ish?
While these are a sweet treat, Chocolate Dates do offer some nutritional benefits. Dates are a good source of fiber, and the almond butter provides protein and healthy fats. Opting for dark chocolate with a high cacao percentage means you get some antioxidants too!
They're definitely a more wholesome choice than a standard chocolate bar, but like a cheeky pint after work, everything in moderation!
My chocolate keeps seizing up when I try to melt it. Help! What am I doing wrong?
Oh dear, seized chocolate is a right pain, isn't it? This usually happens when even a tiny bit of water gets into the melting chocolate. Always use a dry bowl and utensils, and melt the chocolate slowly over a double boiler or in short intervals in the microwave.
Adding a teaspoon of coconut oil can also help keep it smooth. If it does seize, sometimes you can rescue it by stirring in a tablespoon of boiling water sounds counterintuitive, but trust me, it can work!
Can I make vegan Chocolate Dates?
You bet your bottom dollar you can! Simply use vegan chocolate (there are loads of great options available these days), and ensure your sweetener for the filling is maple syrup or agave instead of honey.
Everything else in the recipe is naturally plant based, so you're all set for a completely guilt free (well, almost!) vegan indulgence.
Decadent Chocolatecovered Stuffed Dates
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 220 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 13g |
| Fiber | 3g |