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These chocolate covered dates with almonds offer a perfect balance between sweet, nutty, and rich flavors in a bitesized treat. They come together quickly without any baking, making them ideal for lastminute gifting or satisfying a sweet tooth in a wholesome way. This recipe combines the natural caramel notes of Medjool dates with crunchy almonds and luxurious dark chocolate, finished off with a pretty white chocolate drizzle that brings a festive touch.
I first made these on a whim for a Ramadan gathering, and they became an instant favorite. Everyone loved how elegant they looked while being so simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- Medjool dates: Twenty Medjool dates carefully pitted and split without cutting through completely for easy stuffing. Choose soft, plump dates that are fresh for the best chew and natural sweetness
- Almonds: Twenty whole almonds roasted if possible for a crunchy contrast to the tender dates. Pistachios can be a fun alternative if you want a green pop of color
- Dark chocolate: One cup dark chocolate chips or chunks. Opt for good quality chocolate with at least 60 percent cocoa for that deep, rich flavor
- Coconut oil: One teaspoon coconut oil (optional) to smooth the melted chocolate and give it a glossy finish
- White chocolate: Quarter cup white chocolate chips for drizzling. Use white chocolate that melts easily and holds shape once cooled
Instructions
- Slicing and Pitting Dates:
- Carefully make a lengthwise slice on each Medjool date but stop before cutting all the way through so they remain hinged. Remove the pit gently to avoid tearing the flesh.
- Stuffing the Dates:
- Insert one whole almond inside each pitted date. Gently press the date closed around the nut without squeezing out the filling.
- Melting Dark Chocolate:
- Place the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwavesafe bowl. Heat in 20second bursts, stirring well after each until the mixture is smooth and glossy with no lumps.
- Dipping the Dates:
- Dip each almondstuffed date into the melted dark chocolate using a fork to fully coat it. Lift carefully and let any excess drip back into the bowl.
- Setting the Dates:
- Place the chocolate coated dates on a tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Melting White Chocolate for Drizzle:
- In a separate bowl, melt the white chocolate chips using the same microwave technique as the dark chocolate until smooth and creamy.
- Drizzling White Chocolate:
- Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle the melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate coated dates in thin, decorative lines.
- Chilling to Set:
- Refrigerate the tray for 15 to 20 minutes until the chocolate firms up completely.
- Serving and Storage:
- Serve immediately for best texture or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
The date is my favorite ingredient because it brings such a natural sweetness and chewiness that feels indulgent without extra sugar. I often think back to family Eid celebrations where these were the first treat to disappear from the platter.
Storage Tips
Keep these treats in an airtight container to avoid moisture and fridge odors. They stay fresh for about a week chilled, but they are best enjoyed within three days to preserve the soft texture of the dates. Avoid freezing as the chocolate may bloom or crack.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer you can replace the almonds with pistachios, walnuts, or even hazelnuts for variety. Use milk chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter version but watch the melting carefully as it burns faster. Coconut oil can be skipped but it helps the chocolate coat smoothly and shine.
Serving Suggestions
These bites pair perfectly with a cup of mint tea or coffee for an afternoon pickmeup. They also make elegant additions to dessert boards alongside fresh fruit and cheeses or packaged nicely for holiday gifts.
These chocolate covered dates are elegant and quick to prepare. Enjoy them with tea or coffee.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of dates work best for this treat?
Medjool dates are ideal due to their large size, soft texture, and natural sweetness that complements the chocolate and almonds.
- → Can I use nuts other than almonds?
Yes, pistachios or walnuts are excellent alternatives that add a different flavor and crunch.
- → How can I melt chocolate smoothly for coating?
Melt chocolate in short, 20-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between each session until silky and smooth to avoid burning.
- → What is the best way to store these chocolate-covered dates?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They remain fresh for up to one week.
- → Is it necessary to add coconut oil to the chocolate?
Coconut oil is optional but helps achieve a smoother and shinier coating when melting dark chocolate.