These Chocolate Covered Snickers Stuffed Dates are a sweet treat that’s simple to make! Filled with creamy peanut butter, chewy caramel, and crunchy nuts, each bite is a little piece of heaven.
They are perfect for snacking or dessert, and honestly, who can resist chocolate? I whip these up when I have a chocolate craving—they’re a fun and healthier twist on candy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: These are important for their sweetness and chewy texture. If you can’t find Medjool dates, any large, soft dates like Barhi or Deglet Noor can work, but they may not be as sweet.
Creamy Peanut Butter: This adds a rich and creamy flavor. If you have nut allergies, try sunflower seed butter or tahini as great substitutes.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This gives a deep chocolate flavor without added sugar. If you’re in a pinch, you could use sweetened cocoa powder, just reduce other sweeteners in the recipe.
Dark Chocolate Chips: For a rich coating, I prefer using semi-sweet chocolate chips or dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for more depth. White chocolate can also be a fun alternative.
Chopped Peanuts: These add crunch. If you want a nut-free version, consider using pumpkin seeds or simply skip this step for a smoother finish.
How Do I Melt Chocolate Without Making It Grainy?
Melted chocolate can be tricky, so it’s important to get it right! Use a microwave-safe bowl and set the microwave to medium power. Chocolate can burn easily, so heat in short 30-second bursts. Stir between each interval until smooth.
- Start with your chocolate chips in a bowl.
- Microwave for 30 seconds and then stir.
- If it’s not all melted, continue microwaving in 15-second bursts, stirring each time.
Additionally, make sure your bowl and utensils are completely dry; any water can cause the chocolate to seize. Keeping things cool and dry makes the melting process much smoother!
How to Make Chocolate Covered Snickers Stuffed Dates
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
For the Coating:
- 1/4 cup unsweetened chocolate cocoa powder
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (for coating)
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (for garnish)
- Sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes in the refrigerator to let the chocolate set. So in just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious treat ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Ingredients:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help you easily transfer your delicious treats later!
2. Preparing the Dates:
Now it’s time to work with the Medjool dates. Carefully slice each date lengthwise on one side. Be sure not to cut all the way through! We want to create a little pocket for the peanut butter filling.
3. Stuffing the Dates:
Next, take about a teaspoon of creamy peanut butter and fill each date. Gently press the peanut butter into the date to ensure it’s well-filled. Repeat this until all your dates are filled up!
4. Melting the Chocolate:
Let’s make that chocolate coating! In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips. Heat them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and melted. Be careful not to overheat!
5. Coating the Dates:
Now for the fun part! Dip each stuffed date into the melted chocolate, making sure it’s fully coated. Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing the date on the lined baking sheet.
6. Garnishing the Treats:
While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the top of each date. If you’d like, add a light sprinkle of sea salt for that perfect sweet-and-salty combo!
7. Letting Them Set:
Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will allow the chocolate to harden and hold everything together. Patience is key!
8. Serving Your Treats:
Once the chocolate has set, remove the dates from the parchment paper. They’re ready to be served as an indulgent treat! Enjoy every delicious bite of your Chocolate Covered Snickers Stuffed Dates!
Can I Use Other Nut Butters Instead of Peanut Butter?
Absolutely! You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or any other nut or seed butter you prefer. Just make sure it’s creamy for easier stuffing of the dates.
How Can I Store Leftover Stuffed Dates?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before eating!
What Should I Do If the Chocolate Is Too Thick to Coat the Dates?
If your melted chocolate is too thick, try adding a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable oil (about 1 teaspoon at a time) and stir until smooth. This will help achieve a more fluid consistency for easier dipping.
Can I Use Milk Chocolate Instead of Dark Chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter flavor! Just keep in mind that the overall taste will be different, but it will still be delicious!
