Valentines Snacks Chocolate Stuffed Dates

Name: Valentines Snacks Chocolate Stuffed Dates
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 Medjool dates; 100g dark chocolate (or milk chocolate); 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); Pinch of sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Stuffed Dates for Valentine's Day! They’re the perfect blend of sweet and indulgent, elevating a simple date into a luxurious dessert. When I first experimented with this treat, I was surprised by how easy they were to prepare and how quickly they disappeared. The rich chocolate filling harmonizes beautifully with the natural sweetness of the dates, creating a delightful bite-sized treat that’s sure to impress. Plus, they make for a fun, hands-on activity to do with loved ones during the holiday!

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:01:12.382Z

While developing the recipe, I quickly realized that the choice of chocolate truly makes a difference. I experimented with both dark and milk chocolate, and found that dark chocolate added a lovely, rich flavor that paired wonderfully with the sweetness of the dates. To keep it interesting, I tried adding nuts and spices to the filling, which resulted in incredibly flavorful combinations that I can’t recommend enough!

One tip I discovered is to slightly warm the dates in the microwave for a few seconds. This makes them much easier to work with, allowing you to stuff them without breaking apart. I also suggest letting the stuffed dates chill in the fridge for a bit; it enhances the texture of the chocolate and makes each bite even more delightful!

        Why You'll Love These Chocolate Stuffed Dates
        Decadent combination of chocolate and natural sweetness
Easy to customize with your favorite nuts or spices
Perfect for sharing with that special someone
Healthy alternative to traditional chocolates

      

Unlocking Flavor with Chocolate

When choosing chocolate for your stuffed dates, consider the cocoa content. Dark chocolate not only brings a rich and intense flavor but also contains antioxidants, making it a healthier option. If you prefer a creamier taste, milk chocolate can be a delightful substitute. Melt the chocolate carefully! Overheating can cause it to seize, resulting in a thick, unusable mass. Heat in 20-30 second bursts in the microwave, stirring well after each interval until it's glossy and smooth.

Adding a pinch of sea salt to the melted chocolate enhances the sweetness of the dates and creates a more complex flavor profile. Sea salt helps to balance out the richness of the chocolate, providing a delightful contrast. For those who love a touch of warmth, incorporating spices like cinnamon or chili powder into the chocolate can add an exciting twist that elevates this treat even further.

The Perfect Date: Medjool Magic

Medjool dates are known for their chewy texture and caramel-like sweetness, making them an ideal base for this recipe. When selecting dates, opt for ones that feel plump and fresh; they should not be dry or shriveled. If you accidentally purchase dates with pits, you can easily slice them open and remove the pits, but a pre-pitted variety can save time. Store any leftover dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

If you're looking to enhance the health benefits of this treat, consider stuffing the dates with nutrient-rich fillings. A mix of chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, provides protein and healthy fats. You can toast the nuts beforehand for added crunch and depth of flavor. This small step can make a significant impact on the overall taste and texture of your chocolate stuffed dates.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Stuffed Dates

12 Medjool dates
100g dark chocolate (or milk chocolate)
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Pinch of sea salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Dates

Start by carefully slicing each Medjool date lengthwise, making sure not to cut all the way through. Remove the pit and set the dates aside.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate in short intervals, stirring in between until smooth. If using, stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Stuff the Dates

Using a small spoon, fill each date with the melted chocolate. If you like, sprinkle some chopped nuts and a pinch of sea salt on top for added texture and flavor.

Chill and Serve

Place the stuffed dates on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate hardens. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate or add ingredients like coconut flakes or dried fruit for unique flavor profiles!

Customization Ideas

This recipe is wonderfully versatile! You can explore various nut options, such as pecans or pistachios, for stuffing. Each nut will impart a unique flavor and texture, allowing you to cater to different taste preferences. Consider also adding a drizzle of honey or agave syrup over the finished stuffed dates for an extra touch of sweetness that complements the chocolate beautifully.

For a gourmet twist, try infusing the chocolate with extracts such as orange or almond for additional layers of flavor. Simply stir a few drops into the melted chocolate before filling the dates. This small customization can elevate your dessert to a delightful new level.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These chocolate stuffed dates can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for parties or romantic evenings. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to freeze them for longer storage, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a container; this prevents them from sticking together. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Keep in mind that chilling the stuffed dates is essential for achieving the desirable firm texture of the chocolate coating. If serving at a gathering, consider placing them back in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes before guests arrive to ensure they are perfectly set and refreshing when eaten.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of dates?

Yes, you can use any variety of soft dates, but Medjool are recommended for their size and sweetness.

→ How should I store the stuffed dates?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! These dates can be prepared a couple of days in advance and stored in the fridge.

→ What can I use instead of chocolate?

You can also use yogurt or a nut butter for a different twist on this recipe!