The holiday season is a time for indulgence, and what could be more luxurious than Nigel Slater’s exquisite chocolate marzipan dates? This simple yet stunning dessert combines the natural sweetness of soft dates with rich, nutty marzipan and decadent dark chocolate for a treat that’s sure to impress at any Christmas gathering.
The Perfect Holiday Treat
Chocolate marzipan dates are the ideal dessert for those looking to elevate their holiday spread without spending hours in the kitchen. The recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and can be prepared in under an hour, making it a great option for busy hosts or last-minute gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 20 plump, soft dates
- 250g marzipan
- 150g dark chocolate
- Optional: almonds, walnuts, crystallized rose petals, violets, or crystallized ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Using a small, sharp knife, make a long slit in one side of each date and remove the pit. If desired, stuff an almond or walnut into the date along with the marzipan for added crunch and flavor.
2. Break the marzipan into 20 equal pieces and stuff each piece into the cavity of a date, pressing gently to close.
3. Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Avoid overheating the chocolate, as this can cause it to seize or burn.
4. Line a tray with baking parchment. Using kitchen tongs, dip each date halfway into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip back into the bowl. Place the dipped dates on the prepared tray.
5. If desired, decorate each chocolate-dipped date with a crystallized flower petal, violet, or a piece of crystallized ginger while the chocolate is still wet. Chill the dates until the chocolate has fully set, about 30 minutes.
The combination of soft, sticky dates with sweet marzipan and rich dark chocolate is simply irresistible. These elegant treats are perfect for sharing with loved ones or giving as a thoughtful homemade gift.
– Nigel Slater
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Chocolate marzipan dates are delicious on their own, but there are many ways to customize this versatile recipe:
- Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate, white chocolate, or flavored varieties like orange or mint.
- Roll the marzipan-stuffed dates in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or cocoa powder before dipping in chocolate for added texture and flavor.
- Use different garnishes like dried cranberries, candied orange peel, or crushed candy canes to match your holiday theme.
Serve chocolate marzipan dates as part of a dessert platter alongside other holiday treats like Christmas cookies, fruit cake, or gingerbread. They also make a lovely accompaniment to after-dinner coffee or a glass of dessert wine.
Homemade Holiday Gift Idea
For a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift, package chocolate marzipan dates in a festive box or tin lined with tissue paper. Add a handwritten label with the recipe name and ingredients, and tie with a ribbon for a personal touch. These luxurious treats are sure to be appreciated by anyone with a sweet tooth.
This holiday season, elevate your dessert spread with Nigel Slater’s indulgent chocolate marzipan dates. With their luxurious combination of flavors and textures, these simple yet stunning treats are sure to become a new Christmas favorite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a special homemade gift, chocolate marzipan dates are the perfect way to celebrate the season in sweet style.
