Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I really enjoy this recipe because it’s quick, healthy, and surprisingly indulgent. Here’s why it’s become a go-to:
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It takes under 25 minutes to make, start to finish.
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I only need 3 main ingredients.
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It satisfies my sweet tooth without any added refined sugar.
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It’s fun to make (especially flattening the dates—so satisfying).
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The finished product looks like a gourmet treat but is super easy.
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It’s 100% plant-based and gluten-free.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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9 large soft Medjool dates, pitted
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1 SugarBee red apple (5.5 ounces) – or any apple of choice
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½ cup Hu chocolate gems
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Optional: 1 handful of chopped nuts or seeds (I like salted pistachios and hazelnuts), shredded coconut, freeze-dried fruits, or chocolate chips
Directions
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Prepare the dates: I start by cutting a slit down each date and opening them up. I lay them out flat in a 3×3 square on parchment paper and then place another sheet of parchment on top. Using a small rolling pin, I flatten the dates into one thin layer, making sure there are no gaps.
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Wrap the apple: After removing the top parchment sheet, I place the apple on top of the flattened date layer. Then I fold the parchment up around the apple and press the dates into the surface so the entire apple is wrapped, leaving no skin showing.
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Melt the chocolate: I microwave the chocolate gems in a shallow bowl for 1.5 to 2 minutes, sometimes adding a little coconut oil if I need a smoother consistency.
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Coat the apple: I insert a wooden candy stick into the apple and dip it into the melted chocolate, using a spoon to help cover every inch. I like doing 2-3 layers of chocolate for an extra-decadent shell.
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Add toppings (optional): Before the chocolate sets, I sprinkle on chopped nuts or any toppings I’m craving. I go heavy on the pistachios for salty crunch.
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Set and enjoy: I place the apple on parchment and freeze it for about 10–15 minutes, just until the chocolate sets. Once it’s ready, I slice and enjoy—no sticky mess, just pure deliciousness.
Servings and timing
Yield: 2 servings
Prep + cook time: 20–25 minutes total
Chill time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: Approximately 25 minutes
Variations
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Nut-free version: I skip the nuts and go for freeze-dried bananas or shredded coconut for crunch.
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Extra caramel flavor: Sometimes I add a tiny sprinkle of sea salt to the dates before wrapping the apple.
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Mini version: I use smaller apples or even apple slices for snack-sized bites.
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Chocolate drizzle: Instead of fully dipping, I just drizzle chocolate on top to keep things lighter.
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Different chocolate: I swap in white chocolate or dark chocolate depending on my mood.
Storage/Reheating
These are best enjoyed fresh, but here’s how I store them:
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Refrigerator: I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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Freezer: I freeze slices for up to 1 week. I just let them thaw for 5–10 minutes before eating.
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Reheating: I don’t recommend reheating, but letting the apple sit at room temperature for a few minutes helps bring back the softer texture.
FAQs
How do I make sure the dates stick to the apple?
I press the dates firmly into the apple using parchment paper. As long as the dates are soft and fresh, they naturally adhere well.
Can I use another kind of apple?
Absolutely. While I like SugarBee for its sweetness and crunch, any firm apple like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala works great.
What if my dates are too dry?
If my dates feel dry, I soak them in warm water for 5–10 minutes before flattening them. It makes them more pliable and sticky.
Can I melt the chocolate without a microwave?
Yes, I sometimes use a double boiler on the stove to gently melt the chocolate if I’m avoiding the microwave.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. I like making these a few hours before guests arrive and storing them in the fridge. Just avoid freezing for too long or the chocolate may crack.
Conclusion
This chocolate date caramel apple is more than just a TikTok trend—it’s a healthier twist on a classic treat that I can feel good about making and eating. With just a few ingredients and a little creativity, I end up with a dessert that feels special, tastes amazing, and comes together in under half an hour. Whether I’m making it for myself, my family, or friends, it never disappoints.
Print
Chocolate Date Caramel Apple (Viral TikTok Recipe)
- Total Time: 20 minutes (up to 25 minutes)
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
The exact viral treat everyone’s talking about—this TikTok-famous chocolate date caramel apple is sweet, chewy, and made with just 3 healthy ingredients. A fun, mess-free twist on the classic candied apple!
Ingredients
9 large soft Medjool dates, pitted
1 SugarBee red apple (5.5 oz) or any apple of choice
½ cup Hu chocolate gems
Optional toppings: 1 handful of chopped nuts or seeds, shredded coconut, freeze-dried fruit, or chocolate chips (suggested: salted pistachios and hazelnuts)
Instructions
Flatten the dates: Slice each date open and lay flat. Arrange 9 dates in a 3×3 square on parchment paper. Cover with another parchment sheet and roll flat into a thin, even layer.
Wrap the apple: Remove top parchment. Place the apple on the flattened date sheet, then fold the dates around the apple until fully covered. Press gently to stick.
Melt chocolate: Microwave chocolate gems in a wide bowl for 1.5–2 minutes. Add coconut oil if needed for a smoother texture.
Coat the apple: Insert a wooden stick into the apple. Dip into melted chocolate, using a spoon to coat completely. Repeat 2–3 times for thick coverage.
Add toppings (optional): While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle with chopped nuts, seeds, or other toppings.
Set and serve: Place the apple on parchment and freeze for 10–15 minutes. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Make sure the dates fully overlap to avoid gaps in the caramel layer.
Use soft, fresh Medjool dates for the best texture and flexibility.
Don’t over-freeze; the chocolate coating may crack when slicing.
Fun for kids to assemble and customize with toppings!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
