Rich, glossy, and naturally sweet, Chocolate Covered Dates with Almonds are an irresistible fusion of indulgence and wholesome ingredients. Made with plump Medjool dates, crunchy almonds, and a smooth dark chocolate coating, these elegant bite-sized treats are perfect for gifting, snacking, or serving on festive occasions like Ramadan, Eid, or holiday gatherings. Finished with a delicate white chocolate drizzle, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These chocolate-covered dates strike the perfect balance between elegance, simplicity, and nourishment. Here’s why you’ll reach for this recipe again and again:
- Naturally sweetened: Dates provide natural sugar, making this a refined sugar-free dessert.
- Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor: Only a handful of pantry staples needed.
- No-bake and quick to prepare: Ready in under an hour with minimal equipment.
- Perfectly giftable: Elegant presentation makes them ideal for sharing or packaging as edible gifts.
- Versatile and customizable: Easy to switch up fillings or chocolate types to suit preferences.
- Festive and crowd-pleasing: A traditional touch for Ramadan, Eid, or any celebratory table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Medjool dates, pitted
- Whole almonds (or pistachios)
- Dark chocolate chips or chunks
- Coconut oil (optional, for smoother melting)
- White chocolate chips (for drizzle)
Directions
- Carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise, ensuring not to cut all the way through. Remove and discard the pits.
- Insert one whole almond (or pistachio) into the center of each date, then gently press the date closed.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate and coconut oil (if using). Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
- Dip each stuffed date into the melted dark chocolate using a fork. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing the coated date onto a parchment-lined tray.
- In a separate bowl, melt the white chocolate in the same manner.
- Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate-coated dates using a spoon or piping bag for decoration.
- Chill the tray in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 20 pieces
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooling Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories per serving: 130 kcal
Variations
- Nut options: Use roasted hazelnuts, cashews, or pecans in place of almonds for variety.
- Chocolate coating: Swap dark chocolate for milk or white chocolate based on your preference.
- Flavored drizzle: Add a drop of rose water or orange blossom water to the white chocolate for a Middle Eastern twist.
- Sprinkled toppings: Garnish with crushed pistachios, shredded coconut, or sea salt before the chocolate sets.
- Spiced filling: Mix crushed nuts with a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom before stuffing.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store chocolate-covered dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Not applicable, as these are best served chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use other types of dates?
Medjool dates are preferred for their size and soft texture, but Deglet Noor or other large varieties can be used if available.
Is coconut oil necessary for melting chocolate?
No, it’s optional. Coconut oil helps achieve a smoother consistency and shinier finish but can be omitted.
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, these store well in the fridge for up to a week, making them ideal for preparing ahead of time.
How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
Make sure your utensils and bowls are dry before melting the chocolate. Water can cause chocolate to seize.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes. Use dairy-free chocolate chips or chunks and ensure the white chocolate drizzle is vegan-friendly.
Can children eat these?
Absolutely. They are naturally sweet and made with wholesome ingredients, making them kid-friendly.
Do the dates need to be cooked?
No, this is a no-bake recipe. The dates are soft and ready to use as-is.
Can I toast the almonds beforehand?
Yes, toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch.
How long do they take to set?
Once coated and drizzled, they set in about 15–20 minutes in the refrigerator.
Are these suitable for gifting?
Yes, they make elegant edible gifts. Arrange them in mini cupcake liners and place in a gift box for a beautiful presentation.
Conclusion
Chocolate Covered Dates with Almonds are the perfect blend of Middle Eastern tradition and modern indulgence. With their naturally sweet filling, crunchy nut center, and glossy chocolate coating, these treats offer a luxurious yet wholesome dessert option. Whether you’re preparing a festive platter for Eid, looking for a unique edible gift, or simply indulging in a refined snack, this easy and elegant recipe delivers every time.
PrintChocolate Covered Dates with Almonds
Decadent and wholesome bite-sized treats made with Medjool dates stuffed with crunchy almonds, dipped in silky dark chocolate, and finished with a white chocolate drizzle. Perfect for gifting, snacking, or festive occasions like Ramadan and Eid.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 pieces 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- 20 whole almonds (or pistachios)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips or chunks
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother melting)
- 1/4 cup white chocolate chips (for drizzle)
Instructions
- Carefully slice each date lengthwise without cutting all the way through, and remove the pit.
- Stuff each date with one whole almond and gently close it back up.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate with coconut oil in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Dip each stuffed date into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Use a fork to lift it out and let excess chocolate drip off.
- Place the chocolate-covered dates on a parchment-lined tray.
- Melt the white chocolate in a separate bowl using the same microwave method.
- Drizzle the white chocolate over the dates using a spoon or piping bag for decoration.
- Chill the tray in the fridge for 15–20 minutes until the chocolate is set.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
- You can substitute almonds with pistachios or hazelnuts for variety.
- To make this dairy-free, use vegan chocolate chips.
- For a flavor twist, sprinkle sea salt or crushed rose petals on top before chilling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg