Looking for a snack that’s both indulgent and nutritious? Chocolate-covered dry fruits are the perfect solution. They’re rich, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make at home. This snack strikes the ideal balance between health and indulgence. The natural sweetness and nutrients of dry fruits meet the smooth, rich flavor of melted chocolate. You can use any combination of dried fruits, like dates, figs, apricots, raisins, cranberries, or even prunes, and pair them with dark, milk, or white chocolate depending on your preference. So whether you’re craving something sweet after dinner, need a giftable treat, or just want to upgrade your snacking game, this quick recipe will guide you through the entire process of making them in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried apricots
- 1 cup dried figs
- 1 cup seedless dates
- ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries
- 200 grams of dark or milk chocolate (or a mix)
- 1 tsp coconut oil or butter (optional, for smooth melting)
- Sea salt or chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Method:
- Start by inspecting your dry fruits. If you’re using larger fruits like figs or apricots, slice them in halves or quarters. Make sure all fruits are dry, since moisture can cause the chocolate to seize and affect the texture of the coating. Soak tougher dry fruits like figs or apricots in warm water for 10 minutes to make them plumper and softer. Drain and pat completely dry with a clean kitchen towel before dipping.
- Now melt the chocolate. There are two simple ways to melt chocolate:
- Double boiler method: Place the chopped chocolate (or chocolate chips) in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Add a teaspoon of coconut oil or butter if you want a shinier, thinner coating.
- Microwave method: Place the chocolate in a microwave safe bowl and heat in 20 second intervals, stirring after each session until smooth. Be cautious because the chocolate can burn quickly in the microwave. Once melted, let the chocolate cool slightly for a minute or two so it thickens a bit and adheres better to the fruits.
- Now, using a fork, skewer, or toothpick, carefully dip each piece of dry fruit into the melted chocolate. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing it on a parchment lined tray. You can dip them fully for a rich coating, or halfway if you want to show off the natural texture of the fruit and create a more artisanal look.
- While the chocolate is still wet, you can sprinkle sea salt, crushed pistachios, chopped almonds, or shredded coconut over the dipped fruit. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor and crunch. You can also drizzle white chocolate over the dark chocolate coated fruits for a striped effect, or use edible gold leaf for special occasions.
- The beauty of this dish is how customizable the chocolate is. Here are some fun twists to try:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or chili powder to the melted chocolate for a warm, spicy kick.
- Mix some fresh orange or lemon zest into the chocolate for a citrusy note.
- Soak your dried cherries or raisins in rum or brandy for 30 minutes before dipping them in chocolate, making them perfect for adult parties.
- Slice dates, remove the pits, and stuff them with almonds or walnuts before dipping in chocolate for an extra surprise.
- If you're making them for kids, opt for milk chocolate or even a mix of white and milk chocolate to suit their sweeter palate. Add some fun toppings like colorful sprinkles or mini chocolate chips to make it extra exciting for younger snackers.
- Transfer the tray to the refrigerator and allow the chocolate to set for about 20 minutes. Once firm, your chocolate covered dry fruits are ready to be devoured or stored. If you’re in a rush, pop the tray into the freezer for 10 minutes instead.
- Once the chocolate has hardened, transfer the treats to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you're making a big batch for gifting, you can place each piece in mini cupcake liners and box them neatly.