If you have a sweet tooth and love those little bites of pure bliss, you’ll absolutely adore this Coconut Cream Stuffed Dates Dipped in Chocolate Recipe. Imagine the natural caramel-like sweetness of dates paired with a luscious, creamy coconut filling, all wrapped in a silky layer of rich, dairy-free chocolate. This treat is not only irresistibly delicious but also wonderfully simple to make, requiring just a handful of wholesome ingredients and a bit of patience. Perfect whether you’re looking for a special dessert or a luxurious snack, this recipe promises to satisfy your cravings while feeling a little fancy and a lot comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, each bringing a unique flavor or texture that makes this Coconut Cream Stuffed Dates Dipped in Chocolate Recipe truly shine. From the natural sweetness of dates to the creamy coconut filling and the smooth chocolate coating, every component is essential.
- 12-15 dates, pits removed: The naturally sweet and chewy base that holds the filling perfectly.
- ½ cup finely shredded, unsweetened coconut: Adds rich coconut flavor and texture to the creamy filling.
- 2 teaspoons coconut flour (or almond flour): Helps bind the coconut cream for a smooth, firm texture.
- ¼ cup plant-based milk (coconut milk ideal): Adds moisture and richness to the coconut cream filling.
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (or less for less sweet): Natural sweetener that enhances flavor without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Dark vanilla notes brighten and deepen the filling’s taste.
- ⅛ teaspoon salt (or a pinch): Balances sweetness and intensifies the other flavors.
- 1¼ cup dairy-free chocolate chips (sugar-free preferred): Creates a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate shell.
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil: Helps melt and smooth out the chocolate for better coating.
How to Make Coconut Cream Stuffed Dates Dipped in Chocolate Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dates
Start with your dates by gently slicing down the middle, lengthwise, just enough to open them without cutting all the way through. Carefully remove the pits while keeping the bottom intact, so the coconut cream has a cozy spot to settle in. If your dates are already pitted, simply slice them open to prep for stuffing. This step sets the base for the magic to happen.
Step 2: Whip Up the Coconut Cream Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded coconut, coconut flour, your chosen plant-based milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything thoroughly with a spatula until you have a smooth, sticky coconut cream mixture. This blend is wonderfully rich and slightly sweet, perfectly complementing the natural notes of the dates.
Step 3: Stuff the Dates
Grab a small spoon to scoop about one tablespoon of the coconut cream filling into each prepared date. Press gently with the back of the spoon or your finger to pack the filling securely inside, ensuring it holds together instead of crumbling. Once stuffed, line up your dates on a parchment-lined tray ready for their chocolate coat.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
Set up a double boiler by filling a small saucepan with about two inches of water and bringing it to a simmer. Place a heatproof glass bowl on top, making sure it doesn’t touch the water. Add the dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil to the bowl. Stir the mixture frequently as the chocolate melts slowly into a glossy, luscious sauce. Be careful not to overheat; once the chocolate begins to harden again, it’s best to start fresh for the perfect coating.
Step 5: Dip and Chill the Dates
Using two forks, dip each stuffed date face down into the melted chocolate, coating it evenly. Lift the date onto one fork to let the excess chocolate drip off, then gently transfer it onto the parchment paper using the other fork. For an extra touch, sprinkle shredded coconut on top before the chocolate sets. Pop your dates in the fridge for about an hour until the chocolate hardens beautifully, locking in that irresistible combination of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Coconut Cream Stuffed Dates Dipped in Chocolate Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra shredded coconut, chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds, or even a dash of flaky sea salt on top for a gourmet touch. These simple garnishes add pops of texture and visual appeal that make the Coconut Cream Stuffed Dates Dipped in Chocolate Recipe even more show-stopping.
Side Dishes
This decadent treat pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of herbal tea, rich coffee, or even a glass of chilled plant-based milk for a cozy snack spread. It also complements lighter fruits like berries or tropical fresh fruit salad, balancing indulgence with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these jewel-like dates on a decorative tray lined with banana leaves or parchment paper sprinkled with toasted coconut flakes. You could also arrange them in mini cupcake liners for an elegant, bite-sized presentation perfect for parties or gifting in pretty boxes for a heartfelt homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and delicious for up to a week. The chilled chocolate will maintain its crackly, crisp texture, while the coconut date filling remains soft and satisfying.
Freezing
These stuffed dates freeze beautifully. Place them on a parchment-lined tray in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Frozen dates last up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature or in the fridge.
Reheating
No need to reheat these treats; they are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature so the chocolate remains firm and the creamy filling stays intact. If you find the chocolate too hard, simply leave them out for ten minutes to soften slightly before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use other types of dates for this recipe?
Absolutely! Medjool dates are preferred for their size and natural sweetness, but you can use other soft varieties as long as they are pliable and easy to stuff. Just make sure to remove pits carefully.
Is there a substitute for shredded coconut?
If you’re not a fan of shredded coconut or want a different texture, finely ground almond meal can work as an alternative in the filling, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally nut-free if you use coconut flour (not almond flour) and ensure your chocolate is nut-free. Always double-check labels, especially when buying chocolate chips.
How long does it take to make these stuffed dates?
The entire process takes about 15 minutes of hands-on time, plus an hour chilling in the fridge for the chocolate to set. It’s a quick treat to whip up for special occasions or when you want to impress with minimal effort.
Can I use regular milk instead of plant-based milk?
You can, though plant-based milk—especially coconut milk—adds complementary flavors that enhance the tropical coconut cream filling. Dairy milk will work but might alter the richness slightly.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Coconut Cream Stuffed Dates Dipped in Chocolate Recipe enough! It’s the perfect little bite of bliss that feels indulgent yet wholesome, simple yet incredibly delicious. Whether you’re making it for yourself or as a special treat to share with loved ones, these chocolate-covered treasures will quickly become a favorite. So grab your ingredients, get cozy in the kitchen, and treat yourself to this divine combination of flavors—you won’t regret it!
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Coconut Cream Stuffed Dates Dipped in Chocolate Recipe
These Coconut Cream Stuffed Dates Dipped in Chocolate are a delicious and wholesome treat, combining naturally sweet dates with a creamy coconut filling and a rich dairy-free chocolate coating. Perfect for a quick snack or a healthy dessert, this recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and made with all-natural ingredients.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 stuffed dates
Ingredients
Dates
- 12–15 dates, pitted
Coconut Cream Filling
- ½ cup finely shredded, unsweetened coconut
- 2 teaspoons coconut flour (almond flour can be substituted)
- ¼ cup plant-based milk (coconut milk ideal)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (reduce to 1 tablespoon for less sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt (or a pinch)
Chocolate Coating
- 1¼ cup dairy-free chocolate chips (sugar-free preferred)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates: Gently slice the top lengthwise of each date and open to remove the pit. Keep the bottom intact to hold the filling. If dates are already pitted, still slice and open them for stuffing.
- Make the Coconut Cream Filling: In a medium bowl, combine shredded coconut, coconut flour, plant-based milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix thoroughly with a spatula until well combined.
- Stuff the Dates: Using a small spoon, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the coconut mixture and place it into the center of each date. Press down gently with the back of the spoon or a finger to pack the cream firmly so it does not crumble. Arrange the stuffed dates on parchment paper.
- Melt the Chocolate: Fill the bottom of a small saucepan with about 2 inches of water and bring to a simmer. Place a small glass bowl on top ensuring it does not touch the water. Add chocolate chips and coconut oil to the bowl. Stir frequently as the chocolate melts until it is smooth and fully melted. Avoid overheating as the chocolate can harden prematurely.
- Dip the Dates in Chocolate: Using two forks, dip each stuffed date face down into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Lift and hold above the bowl allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Transfer the coated date onto parchment paper by sliding it off one fork. Optionally, sprinkle shredded coconut on top for garnish.
- Chill to Harden: Place the chocolate-dipped dates in the refrigerator for about an hour to allow the chocolate to set fully before serving.
Notes
- Use coconut milk in the filling for a richer coconut flavor.
- Adjust the maple syrup quantity to control the sweetness level.
- Be gentle when removing the date pits to keep the date intact for stuffing.
- When melting chocolate, maintain a low simmer and avoid direct heat contact to prevent burning.
- For sugar-free options, use sugar-free dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Store finished dates in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and the chocolate solid.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
