These chocolate covered dates are a simple yet elegant treat that combines sweet, chewy Medjool dates with a crunchy roasted almond center, all wrapped in rich cinnamon-spiced chocolate and topped with crushed nuts. They look impressive, but I can make them in under 30 minutes with just a handful of ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like how these chocolate covered dates strike the perfect balance of flavors and textures—sweet, sticky dates paired with crunchy almonds and silky chocolate. They’re naturally gluten-free, and depending on the chocolate I use, they can be made vegan as well. I also love that I can prepare them ahead of time, making them a great option for parties, gifting, or simply keeping a batch in the fridge for a quick treat.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Medjool dates

• Unsalted roasted almonds

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Ground cinnamon

• Crushed almonds

• Crushed pistachios

Directions

1. I start by lining a sheet tray with parchment paper.

2. I cut a slit in each date, remove the pit, and press an almond inside before closing the date back up.

3. I melt the chocolate over a double boiler with olive oil and cinnamon until smooth.

4. I dip each almond-stuffed date into the chocolate, then place it on the tray.

5. I sprinkle them with crushed almonds and pistachios.

6. I let them chill in the freezer for about 1 hour, until the chocolate hardens.

7. I either serve them right away or store them for later.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 chocolate covered dates. It takes around 20 minutes to prepare and 5 minutes to melt the chocolate, plus 1 hour of chilling time, so in total about 25 minutes active time.

Variations

I like swapping almonds for hazelnuts or walnuts for a different flavor. Sometimes I use white or dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet. If I want them to look festive, I sprinkle shredded coconut, sea salt flakes, or even colorful sprinkles on top instead of crushed nuts.

Storage/Reheating

I keep these chocolate covered dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If I want to store them longer, I freeze them for up to 2 months. When frozen, I let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I make chocolate covered dates ahead of time?

Yes, I usually make them a few days in advance. They keep very well in the refrigerator.

What’s the best type of chocolate to use?

I like semi-sweet chocolate for balance, but dark chocolate makes them more intense, while milk chocolate makes them sweeter.

Can I make these without nuts?

Yes, I sometimes stuff the dates with nut butter, tahini, or even cream cheese instead of whole nuts.

Do I need to temper the chocolate?

No, I don’t bother with tempering for this recipe. The olive oil gives the chocolate a nice sheen, and chilling in the freezer helps set it beautifully.

Can I use other fruits instead of dates?

Yes, large dried figs or apricots also work well when dipped in chocolate and filled with nuts.

Conclusion

I love how easy and versatile these chocolate covered dates are. With just a few ingredients, I can create a dessert that looks elegant and tastes indulgent, yet is still wholesome. Whether I serve them at a party, gift them to friends, or keep a batch in the fridge for my own sweet cravings, they always impress.