Dried Dates

This week I am showcasing the insanely delicious dried dates at Flying Disc Farms. These things taste like candy and yet they have so many health benefits! This fruit from the date palm tree is awesome both fresh and dried. These sweet fruits are high in fiber, providing 7 grams in a 3.5 ounce serving. We all know how necessary fiber is in our diets, from digestive health to blood sugar control. Studies have shown that including dates in one’s daily diet improves bowel movements and prevents constipation. Dates contain flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation, as well as help prevent diabetes. They also contain carotenoids that have been proven to aid in heart health and reduce the risk of macular degeneration. Dates are also high in phenolic acid which is an anti-inflammatory, and dates may help lower our risk of heart disease and cancer. And finally, dates have been shown to aid in lowering inflammation and reducing formation of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, which is incredibly important for preventing Alzheimer’s. Quite a powerful punch in such a tiny, unassuming fruit! This week I am making one of my favorite and absolutely simple desserts. 

Faux Snickers 

Yield: 12 Servings 

12 each pitted medjool dates 
¼ cup organic creamy or crunchy peanut or almond butter 
¼ cup organic roasted salted peanuts, chopped 
½ cup vegan dark chocolate chips 

Directions:

1. Arrange your dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet. 

2. Fill each date with some peanut butter and a few chopped peanuts and then put the date back together. Lay the date back on the baking sheet and continue with the remainder of the dates. 

3. Next, melt the chocolate. You can either do this in a microwave safe bowl in 20 second intervals, stirring after each interval; or you can put the chocolate in a double boiler and slowly allow it to melt. Once the chocolate is melted, dip the filled dates in the chocolate, placing the now covered dates back on the parchment and repeating with the remaining dates. Allow the chocolate to harden for 5 minutes and serve! 

4. If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.