If you haven’t noticed yet, I am one for desserts! So I always try to find alternatives to having that candy bar but still satisfy my sweet cravings. These CHOCOLATE-COATED STUFFED DATES definitely hit the spot!

Dates originate from palm trees mostly from Middle Eastern countries. They are nutritional powerhouses loaded with lots of fiber and minerals. They are known to relieve constipation, boost energy, promote heart health amongst tons of other benefits.What I love about them is their caramel-like flavor which means they can be used in many recipes to substitute for sugar. You can even make caramel sauce from dates which I just tried making the other day. They are divine! Which reminds me I have to post about that on another blog.

So, about these stuffed dates. I stuffed some of them with homemade almond butter and some with walnuts. Then simply melted some good quality dark chocolate (at least 70%) with a bit of coconut oil. Lastly I sprinkled them with Himayan sea salt, just because chocolate is better with salt! And in case you have leftover chocolate, you can always dip some fruits into it and that’s another healthy treat right there!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

10 medjool dates

almond or peanut butter (all-natural preferably)

raw walnuts

180grams good quality dark chocolate (50-70%)

sea salt

METHOD

Pit the dates by taking out the seeds. Try not to slice through the date all the way through. This makes it easier for you to stuff them.Take a piece of date and also about half a teaspoon of nut butter (or more if you like).

Stuff the others with walnuts. Melt the chocolate with the coconut oil in a bowl thru the microwave or a double boiler. Dip each stuffed date gently into the melted chocolate or use a teaspoon to coat it. You can use a fork to lift the date to let the excess chocolate drip.

Transfer to a tray lined with parchment paper. Freeze the coated dates for about 10 minutes to let the chocolate set. Just before serving you can sprinkle them with sea salt. You can store in the freezer for about 2 weeks and just defrost them for a few minutes before eating if it’s too frozen.If you loved this recipe, leave a comment below or tag me in Instagram @fitfoodiemommy if you ever make these treats!

 

Enjoy these yummy treats and let me know below if you ever make these!