Valentines Snacks Chocolate Covered Dates

Name: Valentines Snacks Chocolate Covered Dates
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 large Medjool dates, pitted; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoothness); Sea salt (optional, for garnish); Chopped nuts or shredded coconut (optional toppings)

Highlighted under: Home Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love making chocolate covered dates for Valentine’s Day! The combination of sweet, chewy dates filled with rich chocolate creates a perfect treat to share with someone special. It’s simple yet indulgent, making it an ideal snack for romantic evenings or a delightful surprise for friends. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, I can whip these up quickly and impress anyone. Plus, they’re versatile enough to customize with various toppings, so I never get bored of making them!

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:57:35.953Z

When I first tried chocolate covered dates, I was blown away by how delicious and luxurious they felt. The natural sweetness of the dates pairs beautifully with the silky chocolate, making them a treasured treat. One of my favorite tips is to sprinkle some sea salt on top right after dipping them; the salty-sweet contrast takes the flavor to a whole new level!

As I continued to experiment with different chocolate types, I found that using dark chocolate enhances the richness, while milk chocolate offers a creamier experience. Each batch I make reminds me of the joy of sharing these delightful snacks, whether it's with my partner on Valentine’s or with friends during a gathering. The smiles they bring make the effort worth it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute cravings
A delightful mix of chewy and creamy textures
Customizable toppings allow for endless flavor combinations

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Chocolate Coating

To achieve a glossy and smooth chocolate coating on your dates, tempering the chocolate beforehand can make a significant difference. While melting chocolate in a microwave, be cautious not to overheat it; 30-second intervals are ideal to prevent scorching. Stirring frequently helps distribute heat evenly, ensuring a shiny finish once cooled. If you notice any lumps, add a teaspoon of coconut oil for a smoother consistency, which aids in achieving that irresistible sheen.

When dipping the dates, using a fork or toothpick is crucial to prevent too much chocolate from clinging. This not only minimizes waste but also allows for even coating. Ensure that the chocolate is deep enough in the bowl to fully immerse the dates. To avoid drips, gently tap the fork or toothpick on the side of the bowl to let excess chocolate fall off before placing the dates on parchment paper.

Substitutions and Customizations

While Medjool dates are perfect for their size and flavor, feel free to experiment with other varieties such as Deglet Noor, which are slightly less sweet. If you’re aiming for lower sugar content, consider using unsweetened dark chocolate and replacing sugar in your toppings with crushed nuts for added flavor without the sweetness. Nut butters like almond or hazelnut can be delicious alternatives to stuffing, offering both creaminess and a protein boost.

Creating themed chocolate-covered dates is an easy way to impress your loved ones. For a tropical twist, roll them in shredded coconut or drizzle with white chocolate after dipping them in dark chocolate. Alternatively, for an elegant touch, use crushed freeze-dried fruits on top alongside sea salt for a pop of color and unique flavor. These modifications can elevate the snack, making each batch a new experience.

Ingredients

For Chocolate Covered Dates

12 large Medjool dates, pitted
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoothness)
Sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Chopped nuts or shredded coconut (optional toppings)

Enjoy Your Treat!

Instructions

Prepare the Dates

Begin by pitting the dates if they aren’t already. If you desire, you can also slice them open and stuff them with either nut butter or chopped nuts for added flavor.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

Dip the Dates

Using a fork or toothpick, dip each date into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing them on a parchment-lined tray.

Add Toppings

If desired, sprinkle sea salt or chopped nuts on top of the chocolate-covered dates before the chocolate sets. This will add an exciting texture and flavor contrast.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the tray for about 10 minutes or until the chocolate hardens. Once set, enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Enjoy Your Delicious Snacks!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, try using white chocolate or flavored chocolate as a coating. Adding spices like cinnamon or chili powder can also elevate the flavor profile!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These chocolate-covered dates can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for any occasion. After coating and chilling, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. This not only saves time but can also enhance the flavors as they meld together. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking together.

If you want to prepare them for longer storage, these dates can be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, lay the chocolate-covered dates on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. Let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving to enjoy them at their best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These chocolate-covered dates pair beautifully with an assortment of your favorite cheeses, particularly creamy Brie or tangy goat cheese, enhancing both the sweet and savory profiles of your gathering. You can create a stunning dessert platter by arranging the dates alongside fresh berries and nuts, offering guests a delightful variety of flavors and textures.

For a romantic evening, serve your chocolate-covered dates topped with a light dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of caramelized honey. This simple addition not only looks elegant but also enhances the eating experience with layered sweetness and depth, making each bite a memorable treat for you and your loved one.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate and white chocolate are great alternatives depending on your preference.

→ How do I store leftover chocolate covered dates?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Simply use dairy-free chocolate chips to keep this recipe vegan-friendly.

→ What else can I put inside the dates?

You can fill the dates with almond butter, cream cheese, or even nuts like walnuts and pecans for added crunch.