Dark Chocolate and Date Bark Bites

These little bites are pure heaven – sweet, salty, chewy, nutty, caramelly and crunchy!

There are also health benefits – dark chocolate contains antioxidants, the nuts provide fibre, protein and healthy fats and the dates bring natural sugar and fibre.

While I don’t like to label these as 'guilt-free treats' or 'healthy sweets' they are a great option if you managing blood sugars or just want a more nutritious pudding! They are more nutritious than a chocolate bar - more fibre, less saturated fats, more healthy fats and less processed overall.

Ingredients

10-12 Juicy Medjool dates

60-80g of dark chocolate with sea salt (sub in a few pinches of seas salt in needed)

One small handful roast ( but not salted) almonds or what ever nut of juicy OR crunchy nut butter

Greaseproof paper

Method

Melting chocolate is a simple process, but it requires a gentle touch to avoid burning or seizing the chocolate. Here's how to do it:

Chop the Chocolate: Chop the chocolate into small, uniform pieces. This helps it melt evenly and quickly.

Double Boiler Method: This is the safest way to melt chocolate. Place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water. Add the chopped chocolate to the bowl and stir occasionally until melted.

Microwave Method: If you're using a microwave, place the chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in short bursts of 15-30 seconds, stirring well between each interval to ensure even melting. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate.

Stirring: Whether you're using the double boiler or microwave method, stir the chocolate frequently as it melts to help it melt evenly.

Pro Tip : Use Dry Utensils. Make sure your utensils and bowls are completely dry before melting chocolate. Even a small amount of water can cause the chocolate to seize and become lumpy.

Line a dinner plate with greaseproof paper. Carefully take the stone sout of the dates and flatten them down onto the plate.

Press in the nuts or drizzle over the nut butter.

Spread over the melted chocolate. Pop in the fridge for a few hours to harden

Cut up into squares and enjoy!