Dark Chocolate Covered Dates
Say what?! I know…so good! I gather you’re running to the pantry as you read to get these started. I have made many variations of these beauties (see below), but this one is definitely my fave. Why not surprise your loved ones this Valentine’s Day with these sweet treats.
Ingredients
- 25 dates*, pitted
- 50 (about 1 cup) roasted, salted almonds
- 8 oz. dark chocolate**
- Shredded coconut to sprinkle on top
- 25 toothpicks
Directions
- Put two almonds inside each date and secure with a toothpick.
- Put on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place in freezer while you melt the chocolate.
- Melt the chocolate on the stovetop in a double boiler or in a bowl placed over top of a pot full of water. Alternatively, you can microwave for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between, until melted.
- Remove chocolate from the stovetop.
- Dip each date into the melted chocolate until completely covered. You can also use a fork. Let any residual chocolate drip off and then place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Remove toothpicks and sprinkle each date with shredded coconut.
- Place baking sheet in fridge to let chocolate harden.
- Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container…if there are any!
*I like to use Medjool dates because they are big and sweet, but any date would work.
** Any kind of chocolate will work – chocolate chips work great too!
Variations
- You can use any type of nut to stuff the dates. I’ve tried pistachios and cashews – both delicious!
- Don’t have any nuts in the pantry? Nut butters work great too! Or, adding both nuts and a nut butter would be a party for your mouth.
- Try whatever topping you like. Chopped nuts, chia seeds, sea salt or sprinkles are all great options!
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Jenn Giurgevich is the founder of Spark Nutrition & Health, a virtual nutrition consulting business.
Visit www.sparknutritionandhealth.ca for more information.