Valentines Snacks Chocolate Covered Dates

Name: Valentines Snacks Chocolate Covered Dates
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 12 medjool dates, pitted; 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional); Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Food

I absolutely adore making chocolate-covered dates for Valentine’s Day! These sweet treats are not only a delight to eat but are also incredibly simple to prepare. The rich chocolate contrasts beautifully with the natural sweetness of the dates, making it a mouthwatering indulgence. You can customize them with different toppings like nuts or coconut for an extra special touch. They’re perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on your own during a cozy night in. Let me show you how easy they are to make!

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:57:34.983Z

When I first made chocolate-covered dates, I was surprised at how quickly they disappeared! It turns out that the combination of rich chocolate and the natural sweetness of medjool dates is irresistible. I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate for a more intense flavor that perfectly compliments the dates.

One trick I’ve learned is to dip the dates in chocolate twice to get a thicker coating. Not only does that make these snacks feel more indulgent, but it also gives a beautiful shine that looks appealing. Trust me, these are sure to impress anyone you share them with!

        Why You'll Love These Chocolate Covered Dates
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet, chewy dates
Customizable with various toppings for a personal touch
A healthy, naturally sweet snack that feels indulgent

      

Tips for Perfect Chocolate Coating

When melting the dark chocolate, it's important to do so in short bursts to prevent overheating, which can lead to a grainy texture. Stirring in between intervals ensures even melting and prevents the chocolate from burning. If your chocolate does seize, you can try adding a teaspoon of coconut oil to restore its smoothness and sheen.

After dipping the dates, allow the excess chocolate to drip off back into the bowl. This not only helps achieve a cleaner look but also prevents a thick layer of chocolate that can overpower the natural sweetness of the dates. If you let the dates sit for a moment on the fork, the chocolate surface will set slightly, making it easier to sprinkle toppings.

Customizing Your Dates

While the classic combination of chocolate and dates is a crowd-pleaser, consider substituting the dark chocolate with milk or white chocolate for a different flavor profile. Each variation adds a distinct sweetness that complements the dates uniquely. Additionally, you can experiment with flavored chocolates, such as orange or mint, to enhance your treats.

Toppings can also offer endless variety. Instead of just nuts and coconut, think about crushed freeze-dried berries, crushed pretzels for a salty crunch, or even a drizzle of melted peanut butter. Personalizing toppings can make each date a distinct taste experience, and it's a fun way to cater to different preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious chocolate-covered dates:

Ingredients

12 medjool dates, pitted
200g dark chocolate, chopped
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

These ingredients will make for the perfect sweet treat!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your chocolate-covered dates:

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped dark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and fully melted.

Prepare the Dates

While the chocolate is melting, remove the pits from the medjool dates if not already done. You can also create a small slit in the date and stuff them with nuts or other fillings if desired.

Dip in Chocolate

Once the chocolate is melted, dip each date into the warm chocolate, ensuring it's fully coated. Use a fork to lift the date out, allowing excess chocolate to drip off.

Add Toppings

Immediately after dipping, sprinkle the chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets.

Set and Enjoy

Place the dipped dates on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for about 10-15 minutes until the chocolate hardens. Enjoy your sweet treats!

Enjoy your homemade chocolate-covered dates as a delightful snack!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa. You can also experiment with different fillings inside the dates, like almond butter or cream cheese, for an exciting twist.

Storing Your Treats

Once your chocolate-covered dates have set, store them in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for about a week. If you'd like to keep them longer, you can freeze the dates in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy these treats for a month or more without losing their delightful flavor and texture.

To serve these treats straight from the fridge or freezer, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes. This will soften the chocolate slightly, enhancing the flavor and making them easier to bite into. It’s especially nice if you plan to share them during a gathering.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're planning to make a larger batch for a party or gathering, this recipe scales beautifully. Simply multiply the number of dates and chocolate accordingly, but keep in mind that using a larger bowl for melting the chocolate may require adjusting the microwave intervals slightly. Ensure all dates are coated evenly by working in batches if necessary.

For more variety when scaling up, consider creating themed versions of your treats. For example, you can top some with crushed pistachios for a Mediterranean twist while reserving others with coconut and sea salt. This not only gives you a colorful platter but also caters to various taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste. Just note that it will alter the flavor profile.

→ How long do chocolate-covered dates last?

They can last for about a week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ Can I freeze chocolate-covered dates?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they are in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

→ What toppings can I use?

You can use a variety of toppings such as crushed nuts, sea salt, sprinkles, or even dried fruits!