Chocolate Dipped Date Caramels Recipe

Introduction

Chocolate Dipped Date Caramels are a delightful treat combining the natural sweetness of dates with creamy almond butter and rich chocolate. These no-bake squares offer a perfect balance of chewy texture and smooth chocolate coating, making them a satisfying snack or homemade gift.

Ingredients

• 22 large Medjool dates (pitted)
• 1/2 cup almond butter (smooth)
• 2 tablespoons solid coconut oil
• 1/8 teaspoon salt (plus more for topping)
• 1 cup sliced almonds
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Step 1: Add the pitted dates, almond butter, coconut oil, and salt to a food processor. Blend until the mixture begins to come together, stopping twice to scrape down the sides. The mixture should feel soft.
2. Step 2: Add the sliced almonds and pulse 10–15 seconds until they are mixed in and broken into small pieces, but not fully ground.
3. Step 3: Line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Transfer the mixture to the pan, spread evenly, and press firmly with the bottom of a glass or cup. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight until firm.
4. Step 4: Lift the set mixture from the pan using the parchment paper and place it on a cutting board. Cut into small squares and return them to the fridge while you melt the chocolate.
5. Step 5: Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until about 90% melted. Remove and stir until smooth and glossy.
6. Step 6: Line a baking sheet or plate with parchment paper. Dip each date square into the melted chocolate until fully coated, then lift with a fork allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Place on the parchment paper, sprinkle with coarse salt, and refrigerate until the chocolate sets.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free version, substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter and use pumpkin seeds instead of almonds.
• Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to the date mixture for a subtle spice twist.
• Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor or white chocolate for a sweeter variation.

Storage

Store the chocolate dipped date caramels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for softer texture. These treats can also be frozen for longer storage and thawed in the fridge overnight.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of dates?

Medjool dates work best because of their natural softness and caramel-like flavor, but you can use other large, soft dates. If they seem dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before processing.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

A food processor is ideal for achieving the right texture. If you don’t have one, try finely chopping the dates and almonds by hand and mixing thoroughly with almond butter and coconut oil, though the texture may be less smooth.

Chocolate Dipped Date Caramels Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 64 reviews

These Chocolate Dipped Date Caramels are a deliciously sweet and naturally wholesome treat combining soft Medjool dates, creamy almond butter, crunchy sliced almonds, and a rich coating of semi-sweet chocolate. Perfect for a satisfying snack or easy dessert that blends natural sweetness and a hint of saltiness.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: About 24 small squares 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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Date Caramel Base

• 22 large Medjool dates, pitted (about 12 ounces)
• 1/2 cup smooth almond butter (such as Barney)
• 2 tablespoons solid coconut oil
• 1/8 teaspoon salt, plus more for topping
• 1 cup sliced almonds

Chocolate Coating

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Grind. Add the pitted dates, almond butter, coconut oil, and 1/8 teaspoon salt to a food processor. Blend until the mixture gathers together, stopping twice to scrape the sides. The mixture should be soft and slightly sticky. Add the sliced almonds and pulse 10–15 seconds, just enough to mix and break the almonds into smaller pieces without fully grinding them.
2. Press and Chill. Line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for removal. Transfer the date mixture into the pan and spread evenly. Use the bottom of a glass or cup to press the mixture firmly into a compact, even layer. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight until it firms up completely.
3. Cut. Lift the firmed date caramel block out using the parchment paper onto a cutting board. Use a large knife to cut the block into small, bite-sized squares. Place the squares back into the refrigerator to keep chilled while preparing the chocolate coating.
4. Melt Chocolate. Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the chocolate is about 90% melted. Remove from the microwave and continue stirring until smooth and fully melted to ensure a glossy finish when set.
5. Dip in Chocolate. Line a baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper. Dip each date caramel square fully into the melted chocolate using a fork, letting excess drip off. Place coated pieces on the parchment paper and sprinkle lightly with coarse salt. Refrigerate again until the chocolate sets completely.
6. Storage. Once the chocolate is set, transfer the chocolate-dipped date caramels into an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and firmness. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

• For best results, use large Medjool dates weighing approximately 12 ounces in total.
• If you prefer a sweeter chocolate, use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
• Ensure the coconut oil is solid when adding to help bind the mixture properly.
• Use coarse salt for finishing to add a delightful balance of flavor; omit if you prefer a fully sweet treat.
• These treats keep well refrigerated for up to two weeks.

Keywords: Chocolate dipped date caramels, almond butter date treats, healthy no bake dessert, gluten free snacks, homemade caramel bites