A healthy snack or sweet treat to satisfy those afternoon cravings.
Is there anything better than feeling as if you are indulging in a decadent sweet treat, but knowing it's healthy?! I always find myself craving something to either satisfy the munchies that hit mid-morning/mid-afternoon or hits the sweet tooth spot. But I am very cognizant of what exactly I'm eating. I want to fuel my body with clean ingredients that will serve a purpose, and that's how I came up with this quick and quite delicious snack. Did I mention they TASTE LIKE A SNICKERS BAR?!
Before I get into how I make these chocolate-covered, peanut-butter filled dates, let me share just some of the facts about why these ingredients are good for you:
- Medjool Dates
- considered a superfood for all of their beneficial compounds and nutrients
- high in antioxidants
- high in fiber which helps digestion and makes you feel fuller longer
- prebiotic fiber nourishes beneficial gut bacteria
- contain minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron, which support healthy bones and joints and promote the development of red blood cells.
- Natural Peanut Butter
- exceptional source of protein, healthy fats, fiber, and magnesium
- the high protein and fiber promote satiety, and can help stabilize blood sugar levels, and aid in digestion
- contains antioxidants
- Dark Chocolate - at least 70% cacao or higher
- antioxidants can reduce inflammation and lower risk of hearth disease
- the flavonoids in dark chocolate may improve blood flow to the brain, which can lead to better memory, focus, and brain performance
- Maldon Flaky Sea Salt
- contains trace minerals like magnesium and potassium
- traditionally hand-harvested, contributing to its reputation for purity and quality\
- adds textural dimension
- What You'll Need:
- Pitted Medjool Dates
- Natural Peanut Butter
- Dark Chocolate Chunks (70% cacao or higher)
- Maldon Sea Salt
- What You'll Do
- Slice Medjool dates in half, lengthwise
- Fill each half with natural peanut butter, placing on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and put into the freezer for about 10 minutes to let the PB harden up a bit
- Melt roughly 1/2 cup dark chocolate chunks in the microwave. 30 seconds at first, then stir. Another 15 seconds and stir again. Set aside on the counter to let it cool just a bit.
- Drizzle the chocolate over the PB-filled dates, covering the top (the bottom of the date will not be coated in chocolate)
- Every 4 dates, stop drizzling the chocolate and sprinkle the Maldon salt so it settles into the chocolate before the chocolate hardens.
- Repeat the process until all dates are coated in chocolate and sprinkled with salt.
- Store in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Notes:
- This recipe, using the linked chocolate chunks, is dairy free. Check your ingredients if using a different brand of dark chocolate
- I eat 1-2 of these for a snack/treat
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