Easy Chocolate Crisp Dates for Healthy Hormones
- Maiah Miller
- Sep 3
- 4 min read
Are you searching for a sweet treat that satisfies cravings while being nutrient-rich? You’ve found it! These chocolate-dipped dates filled with a crispy protein center are not only delicious but also brimming with components that support hormone balance and energize your metabolism. Plus, they are gluten-free, dairy-free, and contain no added sugar. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that you. will. be. obsessed. with!!
Why Choose Dates for this Chocolate Crisp Treat?
Dates, aka nature's candy, are so amazing and a personal fave of mine. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Specifically, they contain around 696 mg of potassium per 100 grams, which is crucial for heart health and muscle function. With a low glycemic index, dates are an excellent choice for those managing blood sugar levels.
Not only do they provide natural sweetness, but they also serve as a great base for desserts. By adding chocolate and protein, these treats become a nourishing snack that helps stabilize your energy levels throughout the day.
The Benefits of Chocolate
Dark chocolate, especially varieties with at least 70% cocoa, is packed with antioxidants. Research shows that it can improve heart health and brain function, and it may even enhance mood. Studies suggest that the flavonoids in dark chocolate can help keep hormones in check, making this a perfect match for our date snack.
Using sugar-free chocolate means you can enjoy these benefits while avoiding added sugars that might disrupt your metabolism and hormonal balance. For this recipe, I used Trader Joe's new chocolate chop option that is simply unsweetened chocolate, cocoa butter and allulose. *Too much allulose can have the same effects as other substitutes. I have an extremely sensitive stomach and can't do much monk fruit or stevia, but these chocolate chips work fine for me.
Ingredients You'll Need
To create these tasty chocolate-dipped dates with a crispy protein center, gather the following ingredients:
Medjool dates: The key ingredient, offering natural sweetness and a chewy texture. I love Terrasoul for the taste and texture (I've never found a date that's gone bad with the gross black stuff inside) and the price. Other dates like deglect noor work but aren't nearly as good or as easy to "stuff"
Sugar-free dark chocolate: Select chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for optimum health benefits. I used Trader Joe's.
Crispy Quinoa: Opt for a crispy quinoa cereal with nothing else added. You can toast your own quinoa but I like the airy, puffier crunch of the Q Flakes Crisped Quinoa.
Almond Butter: Extra protein, healthy fats and a delicious taste. Choose one without added oils and sugars.
Functional Mushroom blend :(optional, I used Laird Performance Mushrooms)
Optional toppings: Add a light sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor boost. I used Maldon Sea Salt Flakes because they are gorgeous, almost snowflaky, and I LOVE the taste and texture.
Delicious chocolate-dipped dates with a crispy protein center
The Recipe:
Ingredients
yields 10
1/2 cup chocolate chips plus another 1/3 cup or so for drizzling or dipping
2/3 cup crispy quinoa
1-1/2 TBSP creamy almond butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dates
Begin by pitting the Medjool dates. Carefully slice them open and remove the pit. This creates a pocket for your protein filling.
Step 2: Make the Crispy Protein Center
In a glass mixing bowl, melt the chocolate carefully. Stir in the remaining ingredients then place in the fridge so that it firms up but not freezes.
Step 3: Fill the Dates
Take a small portion of the mixture and press it into the pocket of each date. Fill them generously, but don’t overstuff them.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the sugar-free dark chocolate in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. This helps prevent burning and ensures a smooth consistency. Drizzle on top or dip dates in fully if desired.
Step 6: Add Sea Salt
I like to chill the dates for a few minutes, then sprinkle on flaked sea salt. The Maldon Flaked Salt is so pretty (yes, really!) and a perfect compliment to the date. If you purchase any ingredient today, make it the sea salt. The box goes a loooong way and lasts a long time. You'll thank me later!
Step 7: Chill and Enjoy
Place the dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate sets. Once firm, they are ready to enjoy!
Storing Your Treats
Store these chocolate-dipped dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They make an excellent snack for on-the-go energy boosts.
Why These Treats Are Good for Hormones and Metabolism
The combination of dates, protein from quinoa and almond butter, and dark chocolate creates a well-rounded snack that helps regulate hormones. The 7.1 grams of fiber in a 100-gram serving of dates aids digestion and maintains stable blood sugar levels, while protein supports muscle repair and growth.
The antioxidants in dark chocolate work to reduce inflammation, promoting overall health. This delightful treat not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also functions as a powerful ally for your body.
Sweet Indulgence with Health Benefits
These easy chocolate-dipped dates with a crispy protein center are a wonderful way to enjoy a sweet treat without compromising your health. They're straightforward to make, gluten-free, dairy-free, and devoid of added sugar, making them a perfect snack for those committed to a healthy lifestyle.
The next time a craving strikes, whip up a batch of these delightful treats. Your taste buds and body will both be grateful! If you shop through my Amazon links, I may earn a few cents so thanks!
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