Decadence meets simplicity with these Chocolate Peanut Butter Bombs – a sophisticated twist on indulgence. Juicy Medjool dates are stuffed with creamy peanut butter, roasted peanuts an then dipped into velvety vegan chocolate. Naturally sweet and effortlessly vegan, these chocolate-dipped Medjool dates offer the perfect balance of texture and flavour, making them equally at home on a chic dessert platter or as an everyday indulgence. Whip up a batch to elevate your snacking game and savour a guilt-free treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Four tips on what look for when shopping for dates:
- There are several varieties, each with distinct flavours and textures. Medjool dates are the most popular, known for their large size, rich flavour, and soft, chewy texture. Other varieties include Deglet Noor (firmer and less sweet) and Barhi (smaller and sweeter). Choose based on your recipe or preference for sweetness and texture.
- Medjool dates, and other dates, can expire. Look for dates that are plump and moist, as these indicate freshness. Dried dates will have a wrinkled appearance, but avoid dates that appear overly shrivelled or dry, as they may be past their prime.
- Dates should have a deep brown colour, which indicates ripeness. Be cautious of dates with discolouration or spots, which may signal spoilage or that they were improperly stored.
- Dates come with or without pits. If you prefer convenience, opt for pitted dates, but if you want a more natural or less processed option, whole dates may be best.
Can I stuff dates ahead of time?
Absolutely. After assembling, simple store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature for a few minutes.
What other fillings can be used for stuffed dates?
You can experiment by adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty combination, or incorporate shredded coconut into the filling for added texture and flavour. Try using almond butter or cashew butter as alternatives to peanut butter.
To make a nut-free version of these, substitute the peanut butter with seed butters like sunflower seed butter or tahini. Ensure that any additional toppings or fillings are also free from nuts to accommodate allergies.
What are the health benefits of dates?
Stuffed dates offer a nutritious snack option, combining the natural sweetness and fibre of dates with the protein and healthy fats from fillings like nuts or cheese. Dates are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, supporting digestive health and providing a quick energy boost.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Bombs
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates
- 2-3 tbsp natural peanut butter
- ¼ cup roasted, salted peanuts, coarsely chopped
- 8 oz vegan dark chocolate or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Use a small knife to carefully cut a slit down the length of a date. Use your fingers to remove the pit in the middle and discard it. Repeat with the remaining dates.
- For each date, spoon about ½ tsp peanut butter into the cavity of the date and sprinkle about 1 tsp chopped peanuts.
- Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second increments, stopping to stir as needed. Remove from the microwave when just a few tiny pieces are not melted, and stir to finish melting. (This will ensure that you do not burn the chocolate.)
- Line a baking sheet or plate with parchment paper. Using small tongs, two forks, or toothpicks, dip a peanut butter–filled date into the melted chocolate and gently turn it to coat. Place the chocolate-covered date on the prepared baking sheet, and sprinkle the top with some extra chopped peanuts. Repeat with all of the dates. Pop the baking sheet in the fridge or freezer until the chocolate is set.
Notes
- If you do not have a microwave, you can melt the chocolate in a double boiler.
- You can sub the peanut butter with your favourite nut or seed butter, and sub the peanuts with your favorite nuts or seeds. Almond butter with crushed almonds, cashew butter with chopped cashews, or sunflower seed butter with roasted sunflower seeds are some delicious options!
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
