Chocolate Date Caramel Apple (Viral TikTok Recipe)

Why You'll Love this Chocolate Date-Wrapped Caramel Apple

• The perfect flavor combo - chocolate and "caramel" with a sweet, juicy apple
• Made with just 3 simple ingredients
• Healthy twist on the classic caramel apple
• Fun hands-on activity to roll out the dates and decorate the apples - perfect for kids!
• No cooking involved (unlike caramel sauce which typically requires the stovetop)
• Nutritious and delicious treat!

Ingredients

Medjool dates: Look for large, soft and fresh dates. These are key for that caramel-like texture and flavor. I also feature dates in this easy 5-minute vegan caramel sauce!

Apple: Use any variety you like! I recommend a small, sweet red apple like SugarBee for a classic flavor, but Granny Smith apples (or any tart apples) also work beautifully.

Chocolate: I use Hu chocolate gems because they melt perfectly without needing to add coconut oil and are dairy-free and refined sugar-free as well.

Toppings (optional): Here's where you can get creative. Finely chopped hazelnuts and salted pistachios are my favorites, but shredded coconut, homemade granola or even dye-free sprinkles are all excellent options. You can also add almond butter, mini chocolate chips or a chocolate drizzle!

See the recipe card at the bottom of the post for quantities.

How to Make Chocolate Caramel Date Apples

1. Prepare the dates. Cut a vertical slit into one side of each date and open it up so it lays flat. Line up 9 dates in a 3x3 square on a sheet of parchment paper. Place another sheet of parchment paper over the dates and use a small rolling pin to flatten them into one thin, even layer. Ensure that the dates overlap (leaving no gaps) and make the layer as thin as possible without breaking the dates. This step is so satisfying and a great activity for kids!

2. Wrap the apple. Remove the top parchment sheet and place the apple on top of the flattened dates. Fold the bottom parchment sheet over the apple to cover it entirely, then press the dates evenly into the apple so it is fully covered and no apple skin remains visible. The dates should stick to the apple naturally.

3. Melt the chocolate. Melt the chocolate gems in a shallow, wide microwave-safe bowl. Depending on the chocolate you use, you may need to add coconut oil to help it become more liquid.

4. Coat the apple. Insert a wooden candy apple stick (or popsicle stick) into the center of the date-covered apple. Dip the apple into the melted chocolate, using a spoon to coat the apple evenly. Start at the top center and work your way around. Apply 2-3 layers of chocolate for a thick, luscious coating.

5. Add toppings (optional). While the chocolate is still melted, sprinkle finely chopped nuts or any other topping over the apple. Be generous and have fun experimenting with different flavors and textures.

6. Set and enjoy. Place the prepared apple on parchment paper and freeze for 10-15 minutes. Don't over-freeze - the chocolate might crack when sliced. Once set, slice and enjoy! This is best when sliced and enjoyed immediately.

To store, place leftover date caramel apple slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a couple days. You can re-serve it cold or allow it to return to room temperature.

Nutritional Benefits

It's no secret that apples are loaded with health benefits. They are low in calories, high in fiber and vitamin C, and contain no fat, sodium or cholesterol. Additionally, apples have been associated in numerous studies with a decreased risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and asthma (source).

But whereas the apple is the lone bright spot (nutritionally speaking) in traditional caramel apples, this recipe adds another powerhouse ingredient by using dates. Dates are full of vitamins and minerals including zinc, copper, magnesium, manganese, vitamin B6, niacin, calcium, iron and vitamin K. They have no refined sugars, offering natural sweetness you can feel good about eating!