The viral trend of stuffed dates involves filling Medjool dates with a protein-rich mixture, often featuring nut butter, protein powder and sometimes yogurt or chocolate, to create a healthy and satisfying snack or dessert. These treats are often noted for tasting like healthy versions of popular candy bars like Snickers, Mars or Butterfinger bars.
These bite-sized treats are the perfect combination of natural sweetness, creamy texture plus a boost of protein to satisfy your cravings and support your health and fitness goals. They will quickly become your new favorite healthy treat!
This oh-so-delicious sweet snack is perfect for almost anything, pre-workout, post-workout, an afternoon pick-me-up, post-dinner treat. I absolutely love dates, they are so sweet and chewy with a wonderful caramel-like flavour. They are an energy powerhouse, loaded with beneficial nutrients and a fabulous source of fiber, potassium, copper and iron.
These are the perfect snack if you are short on time but need a quick pick-me-up as the sugars in them break down easily providing you with energy. By adding tahini or nut butter you also get the added benefits of protein and healthy fats to help satiate you between meals. You can literally throw these together in one minute. If you haven’t tried stuffed dates yet you are in for a treat, it’s a match made in heaven!
Dates are one of those snack cabinet staples I can’t live without. In my quest to find healthier snacks, I have started buying more dates as I love to use dates as a base in many of my no bake protein bars, snack balls, or if I need a natural sweetener in a cookie or frosting. They contain natural sugars and have a lower glycemic index than many other sweeteners, making them a healthier alternative to refined sugars. They are little morsels of natural sugar- you don’t need many dates to make something sweet.
Dates are a nutrient-rich food that provides a range of health benefits due to their richness in essential vitamins and minerals. They are packed with fiber, antioxidants (like flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolics), and essential minerals such as potassium. They provide numerous benefits, including improved digestion, heart health, better bone health, brain function and help manage blood sugar levels due to their fiber and low glycemic index.
The dried fruit has a caramel-like flavour that can also help reduce cravings for sugary snacks. I’m always on the hunt for new creative ways to dress up my dates and I just knew these chocolate protein stuffed dates would be delicious! And holy yum, these are gooood! I love everything about them. Maybe I am biased, but biting into the creamy center and the caramel explosion that bursts in your mouth… gimme seconds!
Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. But the best part? Not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to support your overall health and wellness. With a boost of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, these treats are perfect for post-workout snacking, a quick breakfast on-the-go, or a healthy dessert option. So go ahead, indulge in this guilt-free treat and satisfy your chocolate cravings while nourishing your body!
I love including protein and healthy fat in my snacks, treats, and desserts because both protein and fat are very satisfying macronutrients. When we feel nicely satisfied, we are less likely to overeat on unhealthy stuff. Make a batch and set them in the fridge for quick treats all week!
Why you will love these stuffed dates:
Natures candy! Dates become caramel-like when frozen. They are ooey, gooey, sweet, and curb any sweet tooth!
Easy to make – Stuffed dates can be made in 10-15 minutes and only require a handful of ingredients.
They keep well – Store stuffed dates in the freezer as a healthy meal prep snack/treat for the week!
Its so simple to open them out so a little pocket is formed then you fill them. Try different nut butters, mix some chopped nuts or freeze-dried fruits into a yogurt/ protein powder mixture. You can also melt some chocolate and dip them or drizzle it over them.
This trending recipe combines the classic flavors of dates, nut butter, and protein powder creating a snack that’s both satisfying and nutritious – the magic that is simply irresistible. Hope you love ‘em as much as my family does.
Chocolate Protein Stuffed Dates
Ingredients
- 8 Medjool dates
- 1/4 cup nut butter (I used cashew butter, but you could also use peanut butter, almond butter, tahini (sesame seed paste) or coconut butter)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 scoop protein or collagen peptides powder, chocolate or vanilla
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon flaky salt – optional
Instructions
- Place the nut butter and the coconut oil in a small saucepan and warm over LOW heat until runny. Remove from the heat and whisk in the honey until well combined.Add cocoa powder, protein powder and vanilla extract and stir everything together until you have a fudgy cookie-like batter.Meanwhile, slice the dates lengthwise, but not all the way through, just enough to remove the pit.Fill each date with a teaspoon or so of the filling, sprinkle with flaky salt if desired.Place in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for the chocolate to set before serving.Store in fridge for up to1 week or freezer for up to 3 months.Note: The longer they are in the freezer, the more caramel-like the dates become. They get super gooey!
If you are looking for more delicious, healthy, protein-rich, no bake desserts and treats to help you reach your health, wellness and fitness goals, you will love my collection here: Blended Bites
