Valentines Snacks Chocolate Stuffed Dates

Name: Valentines Snacks Chocolate Stuffed Dates
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 12 Medjool dates, pitted; 100g dark chocolate, chopped; 1 tsp sea salt; Optional: nuts (like almonds or walnuts) for stuffing

Highlighted under: Baking Moments

I always find that chocolate and dates make the perfect pairing, especially for a special occasion like Valentine's Day. These Chocolate Stuffed Dates are incredibly easy to make and are the ultimate sweet treat. The rich chocolate interior complements the natural sweetness of the dates, creating a bite-sized indulgence that everyone will love. Plus, they look so elegant on a platter, making them an ideal choice for sharing with someone special or enjoying as a delightful solo snack.

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-14T04:16:12.870Z

When I first made these Chocolate Stuffed Dates, I was amazed by how such a simple recipe could create such an impressive dessert. We stuffed the dates with rich dark chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt, which took the flavor to a whole new level. The combination of sweet and salty was simply divine!

One tip I discovered along the way is to slightly warm the chocolate before stuffing it into the dates. This makes it easier to work with and creates a smoother texture that contrasts beautifully with the chewy dates. I’ve made these several times since, and they always disappear quickly at gatherings!

Why You'll Love These Chocolate Stuffed Dates
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Gorgeous presentation perfect for any occasion
A delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors

Understanding Medjool Dates

Medjool dates are prized for their rich, caramel-like sweetness and soft, chewy texture, making them an excellent base for these chocolate stuffed treats. Their natural sugars provide a wonderful contrast to the slightly bitter notes of dark chocolate. When selecting dates, opt for moist, plump ones as they will provide the best flavor and texture. If your dates are a bit dried out, you can soak them in warm water for about 10–15 minutes to revive their softness before pitting and stuffing.

Pitting Medjool dates needs a gentle touch. As you slice them lengthwise, ensure not to cut them completely in half; you want to create enough of a pocket to hold the chocolate without skinning the date. This preservation of the shape not only maintains their form for stuffing but also enhances the visual appeal when presented. Plus, the natural sweetness and chewiness of the dates adds an incredible depth of flavor to the finished snack.

Working with Dark Chocolate

Choosing high-quality dark chocolate is crucial for achieving a rich and satisfying flavor. Ideally, use chocolate that contains at least 60% cocoa solids; this will ensure that the chocolate flavor shines through without being overwhelmingly sweet. When melting the chocolate, be careful to avoid overheating, as this can cause the chocolate to seize. Stirring frequently, even in between intervals, ensures a silky smooth texture without any lumps.

If you find that the chocolate cools and thickens too quickly, a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable oil can help to thin it out, giving it that glossy finish perfect for coating. Be cautious with the quantity; even a teaspoon can make a big difference in texture. This melted chocolate not only serves as a delicious filling but also as a beautiful shell that provides a satisfying crunch when you bite into the stuffed date.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

Once filled and chilled, the chocolate stuffed dates can be served on their own or dressed up on an elegant platter. Drizzling them with a bit of additional melted chocolate or sprinkling with crushed nuts can elevate their look and flavor. They pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments such as fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Don't forget to serve them alongside a glass of dessert wine or coffee to bring out the chocolate’s richness!

If you have leftovers, these treats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. For longer storage, consider freezing them—just be sure to wrap each date tightly. When ready to eat, allow them to thaw in the fridge for a few hours; this helps maintain their texture and prevents the chocolate from melting too quickly.

Ingredients

Chocolate Stuffed Dates Ingredients

12 Medjool dates, pitted
100g dark chocolate, chopped
1 tsp sea salt
Optional: nuts (like almonds or walnuts) for stuffing

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Dates

Start by pitting each Medjool date. You can do this easily by slicing them lengthwise and removing the pit. Carefully open the date slightly to create a pocket for stuffing.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped dark chocolate in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until it's fully melted and smooth. This should take about 1 minute.

Stuff the Dates

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each date with melted chocolate. If you want to add nuts, you can stuff a few whole almonds or walnuts inside the date before adding the chocolate.

Chill and Serve

Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate-stuffed dates and place them in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to allow the chocolate to set. Serve chilled for a delightful treat!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate or toppings. You can try using milk chocolate or adding crushed pistachios for extra crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

Should you prefer a sweeter chocolate experience, feel free to substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate. Just remember that these will alter the final flavor profile, making them less complex but more universally appealing to those with a sweet tooth. For a dairy-free or vegan option, check labels carefully to select a chocolate that is free from milk products, and ensure that your dates are not processed in facilities that handle allergens.

If nuts are not your preference, consider using dried fruit like chopped apricots or raisins as stuffing instead, which will enhance the sweetness further while adding a different texture. You can also play with spices by adding a dash of cinnamon or cardamom to the chocolate for an exotic twist that complements the natural flavors of the dates beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common issue faced while preparing these stuffed dates is the chocolate clumping or seizing. This usually happens if water gets into the chocolate or if it's overheated. To avoid this, make sure your utensils are completely dry and, when melting, do so at a lower power setting to give you better control over the temperature. If clumps happen, you can rescue the chocolate by adding a tiny bit of coconut oil and reheating gently while stirring until smooth.

Sometimes, the chocolate might not coat the dates well or harden evenly. This can happen if the chocolate is too thick or if the date surface is too oily. If you have this issue, test adding more coconut oil to thin the mixture. Additionally, chilling the dates before dipping can help the chocolate adhere better, providing a smoother finish. And remember, practice makes perfect—each batch you prepare will teach you a bit more about getting that perfect texture!

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable. Whether you’re preparing for a few friends or a larger gathering, doubling or tripling the quantities is straightforward. Just keep in mind the melting process for chocolate; you may need to melt it in batches if using a smaller microwave-safe dish. Always ensure to maintain the same melting principles to achieve the perfect consistency when working with larger amounts.

If you're looking to create a diverse platter, consider making variations by incorporating different fillings for each batch. You could even get creative by using flavored chocolates, such as peppermint or orange-infused varieties, to add more depth and interest to your platter. This not only allows for personalization based on guest preferences but also makes for a visually stunning array of treats!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of nuts for stuffing?

Absolutely! Almonds, walnuts, or even pecans work great as fillings, depending on your preference.

→ How should I store the chocolate stuffed dates?

These dates can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make these in advance for a party?

Yes, these can be prepared a day in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes, as long as you use dairy-free dark chocolate, this recipe is naturally vegan!