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

1. Put two almonds inside each date and secure with a toothpick.
2. Put on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place in freezer while you melt the chocolate.
3. 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. 
4. Remove chocolate from the stovetop. 
5. 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. 
6. Remove toothpicks and sprinkle each date with shredded coconut. 
7. Place baking sheet in fridge to let chocolate harden. 
8. 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.

 

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