Imagine biting into a heavenly treat that's not only incredibly delicious but also completely plant-based and surprisingly easy to make. These Mini Vegan Chocolate Turtles are about to revolutionize your dessert game, proving that healthy eating doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you'll create a show-stopping treat that looks gourmet but comes together in mere minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 24 turtles
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecans
- 1 cup medjool dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Sea salt (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of pecans, 1 cup of pitted medjool dates, 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips, 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, and sea salt for sprinkling.
- In a food processor, add the pitted medjool dates. Blend until they form a sticky paste. This may take a minute or two, so be patient and scrape down the sides as needed.
- Once the dates are blended into a paste, add the pecans to the food processor. Pulse the mixture until the pecans are finely chopped but not completely ground. You want some texture in your turtles.
- Line a baking sheet or a plate with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Using your hands, take small portions of the date and pecan mixture and roll them into balls, then flatten them slightly to form a turtle shape. Repeat until all the mixture is used, making about 24 turtles.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate.
- Once the chocolate is melted, dip each turtle into the chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Use a fork to lift them out, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off.
- Place the chocolate-coated turtles back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. While the chocolate is still wet, lightly sprinkle each turtle with a pinch of sea salt for added flavor.
- Once all turtles are coated, place them in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes, or until the chocolate has set.
- After the chocolate has hardened, your Mini Vegan Chocolate Turtles are ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Tips
- Choose medjool dates that are soft and sticky for the best texture - they're key to binding the turtle base.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher) for a rich, intense flavor.
- Keep your hands slightly damp when rolling the date-pecan mixture to prevent sticking.
- For a smoother chocolate coating, ensure your melted chocolate is at the right temperature - not too hot, not too cool.
- If you want extra crunch, try toasting the pecans lightly before mixing them into the base.
- For a more decorative look, drizzle some extra melted chocolate over the turtles after they've been salted.
- These turtles are best stored in the refrigerator and will keep for up to a week in an airtight container.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 71kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
