Easter chocolate date bites
As an aspiring plant-based foodie, I understand that many holiday foods are naturally not suitable for vegans and with Easter coming right around the corner, I decided to create this low effort but tasty vegan chocolate date bites that you can enjoy as an appetizer, dessert, or snack for the holidays!
Before creating this recipe, I did some research on the availability of vegan chocolate in supermarkets and convenience stores. I was actually quite surprised to find that some high percentage dark chocolates such as Lindt 70%, are actually accidentally vegan due to the high levels of cocoa present. Nowadays, there are also various companies that specialize in vegan chocolate, such as HU, Alter eco, Endangered Species, and Lily’s.
With vegan chocolate options widely available to the public, this recipe can be made easily with convenience right before the holiday celebrations.
Additionally, if you are following a dairy-free, paleo, gluten free or low carb diet, this recipe is suitable for you.
Ingredients:
*1 cup pitted medjool dates (soaked in warm water for around 10 - 15 minutes)
*3/4 cup almond butter
*1/4 cup coconut flour (can add less if mixture gets too dry)
*1 tbsp coconut oil (optional)
Chocolate coating mixture:
*1 cup vegan dark chocolate
*2 tbsp coconut oil (I just eyeballed the amount so add more or less if you want)
Method:
First soak your pitted medjool dates in warm water for around 10 to 15 minutes.
Start to prepare all your ingredients and after 10 to 15 minutes, place almond butter, medjool dates and coconut flour into a high speed blender to blend.
Half way through blending, scrape the sides of your blender as the mixture may get stuck there and add in an optional tablespoon of melted coconut oil. Continue blending until combined.
4. Take a tray and place parchment paper onto it. Then begin to shape your date bites into an easter egg (or any shape you like).
5. Place your tray with date bites into the fridge for around 10 minutes while you prepare your chocolate mixture.
6. Take a microwave safe bowl, place chocolate and coconut oil into the bowl and microwave for around 60 seconds or until melted.
7. Take your date bites out of the fridge and dip it into the chocolate mixture (until coated), repeat the process. This next step is completely optional but you could add some sprinkles onto the bites to make it look more appealing.
8. Let your bites set in the fridge for around 30 minutes or until chocolate is not melty and enjoy!
