Indulge in these delectable Medjool date-filled chocolate bites that perfectly balance sweetness with a touch of saltiness. The velvety chocolate combined with the naturally sweet and sticky dates creates a treat that is not only delicious but also free from gluten, dairy, and soy, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Servings: Makes about 20 bites, depending on the size of the muffin tins
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 15 Medjool dates, pitted
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 1/8 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- A pinch of sea salt
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1 10-ounce bag of Enjoy Life mini chocolate chips (free from gluten, dairy, and soy)
- 1/4 teaspoon coconut oil, divided
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling: In a high-powered blender or food processor, combine the pitted Medjool dates, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and forms a sticky paste.
- Preparation: Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners. Set aside.
- Melt Half of the Chocolate: In a heat-safe bowl, melt half of the Enjoy Life mini chocolate chips with 1/8 teaspoon of coconut oil. You can use a microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between each burst, or melt the chocolate over a double boiler, stirring continuously. Ensure the chocolate doesn’t come into contact with water, as it can seize and become grainy.
- First Chocolate Layer: Once the chocolate is completely melted and smooth, spoon a small amount into each lined muffin tin. Ensure the bottom is entirely covered. Place the muffin tin in the freezer for about 10 minutes, allowing the chocolate to set.
- Add the Filling: Remove the muffin tin from the freezer. Place a small scoop or teaspoon of the date filling mixture into each chocolate-covered cup. Gently press down on the filling with the back of the spoon or your finger, ensuring it’s evenly spread.
- Melt the Remaining Chocolate: Melt the remaining half of the chocolate chips with the rest of the coconut oil (1/8 teaspoon), using the same method as before.
- Final Chocolate Layer: Carefully spread the melted chocolate on top of the date filling in each cup, ensuring the date filling is completely covered by the chocolate.
- Set the Bites: Refrigerate or freeze the filled muffin tins for about 15 minutes or until the chocolate has fully set.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once set, remove the chocolate bites from the muffin tin. They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for longer storage.
Tips:
- For a fun variation, you can sprinkle the top of the chocolate bites with some shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or sea salt before they set.
- Make sure the filling isn’t too warm when adding it to the chocolate base; otherwise, it might melt the first layer of chocolate.
These Medjool Date Chocolate Bites are a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet cravings. The combination of rich chocolate and the caramel-like sweetness of the dates is simply irresistible!