Description
These Almond Joy Stuffed Dates are a decadent yet simple treat combining sweet Medjool dates filled with a creamy coconut mixture, coated in rich dark chocolate, and topped with crunchy almonds and a hint of coarse salt. Inspired by the classic Almond Joy candy bar, this recipe offers a healthier, homemade version perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests with elegant, bite-sized desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
Coconut Filling
- 2 cups shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup canned coconut milk (or heavy cream)
Stuffed Dates
- 14 large Medjool dates
- 14 whole almonds
Chocolate Coating
- 4 ounces dark chocolate (bar or chips)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- Coarse salt (for topping)
Instructions
- Make coconut stuffing: Add the shredded coconut and coconut milk (or heavy cream) to a food processor and pulse for 20 to 30 seconds. The goal is to partially grind the coconut while retaining some texture, so avoid processing it into a paste.
- Stir the mixture: Remove the blade from the food processor and use a spoon to stir the coconut mixture, helping it come together into a cohesive filling.
- Form the filling balls: Scoop a heaping tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into a ball, then gently form it into an oval roughly the size and shape of a date.
- Prepare the dates: Using a small, sharp paring knife, carefully make a lengthwise slice along one side of each Medjool date without cutting all the way through. Gently open each date, remove the pit, and create a cavity for the filling.
- Fill the dates: Press the coconut mixture firmly into the cavity of each date until filled.
- Melt the chocolate: Place the dark chocolate pieces and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate and oil are fully melted and smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes total.
- Coat the dates: Line a small sheet pan or large plate with parchment paper. Using a spoon, lower each stuffed date into the melted chocolate and turn it a few times to coat thoroughly. Lift with a fork, letting excess chocolate drip back into the bowl, then place the date on the parchment paper with the coconut side facing up.
- Top with almond and salt: Sprinkle a pinch of coarse salt on top of each date and gently press a whole almond into the center.
- Chill to set: Place the coated dates in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours to allow the chocolate to firm up completely.
- Serve and store: Store the dates refrigerated, but let them sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving to enjoy a soft and chewy texture.
Notes
- You can use either sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut according to your preference.
- If you don’t have coconut milk, heavy cream works as a creamy alternative.
- For a smoother coating, make sure to stir the chocolate frequently while melting.
- Medjool dates are preferred due to their large size and natural sweetness.
- Allowing the dates to warm to room temperature before serving will enhance their chewy texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Almond Joy, stuffed dates, coconut filling, dark chocolate, healthy dessert, Medjool dates, vegan dessert option
