Dark Chocolate Sesame Date Clusters (Printable Version)
Chewy dates, toasted sesame seeds, and dark chocolate combine for these naturally sweet bite-sized treats.
# What You'll Need:
→ Dates
01 - 12 large Medjool dates, pitted and chopped
→ Seeds & Nuts
02 - 3 tablespoons toasted white sesame seeds
03 - 2 tablespoons toasted black sesame seeds
04 - 1/4 cup chopped roasted almonds (optional)
→ Chocolate
05 - 7 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped
→ Topping (Optional)
06 - 1 tablespoon extra sesame seeds (mixed black and white), for sprinkling
07 - Flaky sea salt, to taste
# How To Make:
01 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking during chilling.
02 - In a medium bowl, combine chopped dates, toasted sesame seeds, and almonds (if using). Mix thoroughly until evenly distributed and mixture holds together.
03 - Using your hands or two spoons, shape the mixture into 16 small mounds, approximately 1 inch each. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly.
04 - In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a saucepan of simmering water using the double boiler method, or microwave in 20-second bursts. Stir constantly until completely smooth and glossy.
05 - Using a fork, dip each date cluster into the melted chocolate, ensuring complete coverage. Allow excess chocolate to drip off, then return each cluster to the baking sheet.
06 - While chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the tops with extra sesame seeds and a pinch of flaky sea salt if desired.
07 - Refrigerate for 20 minutes or until the chocolate is completely firm and set.
08 - Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week for optimal freshness.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The contrast between chewy dates and snappy dark chocolate hits every craving button without being too sweet
- These come together in under 30 minutes but taste like something from a fancy chocolate shop
02 -
- Working quickly with melted chocolate is everything, so have your toppings ready before you start dipping
- Damp hands prevent the date mixture from sticking to your fingers like glue while shaping
03 -
- Toast raw sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, watching closely like a hawk because they go from perfect to burned in seconds
- Room temperature dates are much easier to work with than cold ones straight from the refrigerator