Prepare to transform ordinary dates into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and impress even the most discerning dessert lovers! These Chocolate Coated Date Hearts are not just a treat - they're a luxurious experience that combines the natural sweetness of Medjool dates with rich, glossy dark chocolate. Whether you're looking for a quick elegant dessert, a romantic Valentine's Day surprise, or a sophisticated snack, these heart-shaped delights will elevate your dessert game with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup crushed nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.
- If dates are not already pitted, carefully slice each date open and remove the pit, keeping the date intact.
- Gently flatten each date and reshape into a heart shape by pinching and molding with clean fingers. Press slightly to create a uniform thickness.
- Place shaped date hearts on the prepared parchment paper and briefly chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to help maintain their shape.
- Create a double boiler by placing a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water. Ensure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.
- Add dark chocolate chips and coconut oil to the bowl. Stir continuously until completely melted and smooth, creating a glossy chocolate mixture.
- Remove chilled date hearts from refrigerator. Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully coat each heart fully in melted chocolate.
- Gently tap the fork to remove excess chocolate, then place each coated heart back on the parchment paper.
- If desired, sprinkle crushed nuts over the chocolate while it's still wet. Alternatively, wait for first chocolate layer to set and drizzle with additional chocolate.
- Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt over each heart for enhanced flavor complexity.
- Refrigerate chocolate-coated date hearts for 10-15 minutes until chocolate is completely set and firm.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
Tips
- Choose Medjool dates that are soft and plump for the best texture and flavor.
- Ensure your dates are at room temperature for easier shaping and coating.
- Use a high-quality dark chocolate for a more intense and rich flavor profile.
- Keep your chocolate melting temperature low and steady to prevent seizing.
- Work quickly when coating dates to maintain a smooth chocolate finish.
- For a gourmet touch, experiment with different nut toppings like almonds or pistachios.
- Use a fork or specialized dipping tool for the most even chocolate coverage.
- Chill dates briefly before and after chocolate coating to help maintain their shape.
- A pinch of sea salt can dramatically enhance the chocolate's depth of flavor.
- Allow chocolate to set completely in the refrigerator for the best texture and presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
