Description
Enjoy a candied apple without the sugar overload and sticky mess! These chocolate date caramel apples that are all over TikTok are sweet, satisfying and made with just 3 ingredients. Plus, they're naturally vegan and refined sugar-free - a win for anyone looking for a healthier twist on the classic dessert!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 9 large soft Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 SugarBee red apple (5.5 ounces) - or any apple of choice
- 1/2 cup Hu chocolate gems
- Optional: 1 handful of nuts or seeds of choice, chopped (or shredded coconut, freeze-dried raspberries/bananas or chocolate chips). Suggested: salted pistachios and hazelnuts.
Instructions
- 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 3 x 3 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!
- 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.
- 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. I typically microwave the chocolate for 1.5-2 minutes.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
Equipment
Buy Now → Notes
Make homemade chocolate bark with the leftover ingredients so nothing goes to waste! Spread the leftover chocolate onto parchment paper, sprinkle the extra chopped nuts (or any other topping) overtop, and freeze to make a quick and delicious chocolate bark. Two desserts in one recipe! See the blog post above for more details.
- Prep Time: 10
- Freeze Time: 10-15
- Category: Dessert