Hazelnut Date Bites – Decadent, Nutty, and Perfectly Dipped in Chocolate

These Hazelnut Date Bites are a perfect balance of creamy homemade hazelnut spread, the natural sweetness of dates, and a rich chocolate coating. Each bite is stuffed with roasted pecans and coated in smooth dark chocolate, making for a decadent yet healthy treat. Plus, they’re dairy-free, gluten-free, and can easily be made refined sugar-free, making them a great option for a variety of dietary preferences!

Perfect as an indulgent snack or a gift, these bites are freezer-friendly and ready to enjoy any time you need a sweet pick-me-up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free – Naturally suitable for different dietary needs.
✔ Refined Sugar-Free Option – Use maple syrup or another natural sweetener.
✔ Crunchy & Creamy – Roasted nuts inside a soft, caramel-like date.
✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and no baking required.
✔ Freezer-Friendly – Keeps well for a grab-and-go snack.

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Hazelnut Bites

Ingredients

Hazelnut Spread

• 300g blanched hazelnuts
• 100g maple syrup
• 100g-150g milk (I used soy to keep it dairy free)
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp coconut oil

Date Bites

• 17-20 Medjool dates, pitted
• Roasted pecans or hazelnuts (about 2 per date)
• 180g dark chocolate
• 1 tsp coconut oil
• Flaky sea salt (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Make the Hazelnut Spread

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Roast hazelnuts for about 8-9 minutes until golden and fragrant.
• Blend roasted hazelnuts with maple syrup, coconut oil, milk and sea salt until smooth.
• Note: if needed, add a dash or two of milk.

2. Assemble the Date Bites

• Slice each date open and remove the pit.
• Fill each date with a spoonful of hazelnut spread and 1-2 roasted pecans or hazelnuts.
• Gently press the dates closed around the filling.

3. Melt the Chocolate

• In a heatproof bowl, melt dark chocolate and coconut oil over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
• Stir until smooth.

4. Coat the Dates

• Using a fork, dip each stuffed date into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage.
• Place on a parchment-lined tray.

5. Chill & Finish

• Freeze for about 20 minutes until the chocolate is set.
• Drizzle any remaining melted chocolate over the top for decoration and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

6. Store & Enjoy

• Keep in an airtight container in the freezer for the best texture and freshness.

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Tips & Tricks

✔ Use Soft Dates – Fresh Medjool dates work best for easy filling.
✔ Customize the Nuts – Swap pecans for almonds or hazelnuts.
✔ Make It Extra Crunchy – Toast the nuts before stuffing the dates for a richer flavor.
✔ Double Dip for a Thicker Chocolate Coating – Chill after the first dip, then coat again.
✔ Freezer is Best – These bites stay freshest when stored frozen.

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This is the perfect make-ahead treat for when you want something naturally sweet yet satisfying. Enjoy straight from the freezer for the best texture!