Indulge in the sweet simplicity of Chocolate Covered Dates, a decadent treat that perfectly blends the natural caramel-like sweetness of dates with chocolate’s rich, velvety allure.
You don’t need to visit the grocery stores before you enjoy your simple dessert but still have a healthy snack with less sugar intake. Made only with a handful of ingredients, the chocolate dates will make the best Valentine’s Day sweet treat. To all my fans of dates, it is time to enjoy the sweetness of the dates as a no-bake dessert.
Chocolatey Dates
Servings: 10
Prep: 10 minutes| Cook Time: 5-10 minutes| Cool Time: 15 minutes| Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients for chocolate-covered dates
20 dates (16oz bag) – I used large Medjool dates
1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
3/4 cup almond Butter (You can substitute with hazelnut butter, cashew butter, or peanut butter)
1 tsp coconut oil
½ cup chopped walnuts. You can skip or swap the walnuts for whatever you have on hand or for your fave, like pecans, almonds, pistachios, etc.… all are delicious.
Directions for Chocolate Covered Dates
Step 1: Lay parchment paper or baking sheet on a cookie sheet. Cut each date open, and take out the pits if not already pitted. Lay each date open on the cookie sheet and press flat.
Step 2: Next, you will melt your chocolate chips. Bring water to a boil in a small pot. When boiling, place a heat-safe glass bowl with the chocolate chips directly on top, then add the tsp of coconut oil. Chocolate chips will slowly start to melt. Stir occasionally until completely melted. Take the bowl of melted chocolate off the heat. Add in the almond butter and walnuts and mix well.
Step 3: Now, you will add the melted chocolate directly to each date. Use a large spoonful and place chocolate in the middle of each date. Pour directly in the middle, then spread a circular motion until the chocolate covers the whole date. Continue until each date is fully covered.
Step 4: Place in the freezer for about 15 minutes to harden, and enjoy!
Note: Best stored in the refrigerator.
Pro Tips for Perfectly Chocolately Dates
- The following can be added before freezing – chopped peanuts, a sprinkle of sea salt, flaky sea salt, sesame seeds, or unsweetened coconut chips for various tastes and a bit of crunch.
Experiment with different varieties of dates for carrying sizes and sweetness!
What type of dates are best for this recipe? This recipe will work with any other type of date. Sweet Medjool dates are ideal for their size, sweetness, and chewy texture, but various dates can be used.
Should the dates be pitted? Yes, removing the pits from whole dates is essential before covering them with chocolate for easy eating.
Can I use different types of chocolate? Absolutely! You can substitute it with any chocolate you love. Dark, milk or white chocolate can be used depending on your preference.
How do I melt the chocolate? You can melt chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in short bursts, stirring in between, or use a double boiler on the stove.
Can I add toppings to the chocolate-covered dates? Yes, toppings like chopped nuts, sea salt flakes, coconut flakes, or even drizzles of different chocolate can be added for extra flavor and texture.
How long does it take for the chocolate to set? It typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator for the chocolate to fully set.
Are chocolate-covered dates healthy? Dates are nutritious and a healthier, sweet option. However, moderation is key due to the added chocolate.
Can these be made in advance? Yes, they can be made a few days before and stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Is it necessary to refrigerate chocolate-covered dates? Refrigeration helps the chocolate set and keeps the dates fresh, especially in warm climates.
How should I store leftover chocolate-covered dates? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Chocolate-covered dates satisfy the sweet tooth, making them a perfect treat for any occasion or an edible gift for loved ones. Enjoy creating these simple yet elegant sweets without the guilt of added sugar!
Satisfy your sweet craving made with simple ingredients!
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About the Author
I am Seun, and I love to share my first-hand experience using multiple air fryers. Stick around for yummy delicacies made from the air fryer and many amazing tips on using your newfound Kitchen appliance – the air fryer!
