Chocolate Covered Dates Almond Butter

The first time I made these was during a midnight kitchen session when I wanted something sweet but refused to settle for普通 candy. The way the creamy almond butter oozes out when you bite through that snappy chocolate coating changed my entire perspective on what a simple dessert could be.

I brought a plate of these to a dinner party last month and watched my friend Sarah literally close her eyes after the first bite. She asked if I could teach her how to make them for her wedding favors, which honestly never crossed my mind but makes perfect sense now.

Ingredients

• 12 large Medjool dates, pitted: Look for dates that are plump and slightly glossy because wrinkly ones will be tough to work with and less luscious inside
• 6 tablespoons almond butter: Smooth almond butter fills the dates more evenly but crunchy adds this incredible texture contrast that I personally adore
• 150 g dark chocolate: I grab whatever is on sale as long as it is at least 60 percent cacao because anything sweeter overpowers the dates natural caramel notes
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil: This is optional but makes the chocolate coating thinner and easier to work with
• 2 tablespoons chopped roasted almonds: These add such a satisfying crunch and make them look professionally finished
• Flaky sea salt: Do not skip this because the salt makes the chocolate taste more intense and sophisticated

Instructions

Prep your dates:

Use a sharp knife to carefully slice each date lengthwise and pull out the pit if they are not already pitted

Stuff them generously:

Spoon about half a tablespoon of almond butter into each date and gently press the sides back together

Melt the chocolate:

Combine the chopped chocolate and coconut oil in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or microwave in twenty second bursts while stirring until completely smooth

Dip each date:

Use a fork to lower each stuffed date into the melted chocolate then lift it out and let the excess drip off for a moment

Add the finishing touches:

Place the chocolate covered dates on a parchment lined baking sheet and immediately sprinkle with almonds and sea salt

Set the chocolate:

Refrigerate the dates for at least twenty minutes until the chocolate is completely firm

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These have become my go to hostess gift because they travel so well and never fail to impress. Last week I made a batch for my sister who just had a baby and she texted me three days later asking if I could leave another container on her porch.

Chocolate Tempering Tricks

If you want that professional glossy finish and crisp snap let the melted chocolate cool slightly before dipping. I learned this the hard way after making batches that looked perfectly fine but had that dull slightly soft coating no matter how long I chilled them.

Flavor Variations

Sometimes I mix a pinch of cinnamon or some orange zest into the almond butter before stuffing the dates. My husband actually prefers the cinnamon version and requests it specifically when he is having a particularly stressful week at work.

Storage And Serving

These keep beautifully in the fridge for up to two weeks though they rarely last that long in my house. The texture is best when you let them sit at room temperature for about five minutes before serving.

• Layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container so they do not stick together
• These freeze surprisingly well if you want to make a big batch for future cravings
• Package them in small boxes with wax paper for an effortless but impressive gift

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There is something deeply satisfying about turning such simple ingredients into something that feels so luxurious and special.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of dates works best?

Medjool dates are ideal due to their large size, softness, and natural sweetness, making them perfect for stuffing.

→ Can I substitute almond butter?

Yes, peanut, cashew, or sunflower seed butter can be used for variation while maintaining a creamy texture.

→ How do I melt the chocolate properly?

Melt chocolate gently using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

→ What is the purpose of refrigerating the dates?

Chilling helps the chocolate coating to set firmly, ensuring a smooth, crisp finish and easier handling.

→ Are there any allergen considerations?

This treat contains tree nuts and may include traces of peanuts or soy depending on ingredients used. Check labels carefully.

→ Can I customize the flavor?

Try adding cinnamon or orange zest to the almond butter for a unique twist that complements the chocolate and dates.