Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup pitted prunes
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Special equipment needed:
- Popsicle molds
- Popsicle sticks
Step-by-step instructions:
a. In a food processor, blend the prunes, almond butter, honey, cocoa powder, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth.
b. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, filling each mold about 3/4 full.
c. Insert a popsicle stick into each mold and freeze for at least 4 hours or until solid.
d. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave.
e. Remove the popsicles from the molds and dip each one into the melted chocolate, coating it completely.
f. Place the chocolate-covered popsicles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for an additional 10-15 minutes to set the chocolate.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 4 hours (freezing time)
5. Temperature:
Freezer temperature: 0°F (-18°C)
Chocolate melting temperature: 110°F (43°C)
Serving size:
Makes 6-8 popsicles
Nutritional information:
Per serving (1 popsicle):
Calories: 250
Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almond butter can be substituted with any nut butter of your choice.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Dark chocolate chips can be substituted with milk chocolate chips or white chocolate chips.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or shredded coconut to the popsicle mixture for added texture.
- Use different types of dried fruit, such as apricots or dates, instead of prunes.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the popsicle mixture for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Soak the popsicle sticks in warm water for a few minutes before inserting them into the molds to prevent them from floating to the top.
- If the popsicles are difficult to remove from the molds, run them under warm water for a few seconds to loosen them.
- Store the popsicles in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
Storage instructions:
Store the popsicles in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
Not applicable.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the popsicles on a platter and garnish with fresh fruit or chopped nuts.
Garnishes:
Fresh fruit, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, chocolate shavings.
Pairings:
Serve the popsicles with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Suggested side dishes:
Not applicable.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the popsicles are too hard to eat, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
- If the chocolate coating cracks or falls off, make sure the popsicles are completely frozen before dipping them in the chocolate.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before preparing the recipe. Store the popsicles in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
Prunes have been enjoyed for centuries and were originally cultivated in Western Asia. They are a good source of fiber and are often used in baking and cooking.
Flavor profiles:
The Chocolate-Covered Prune Pops have a rich chocolate flavor with a subtle sweetness from the prunes and honey.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the popsicles as a refreshing dessert on a hot summer day.
Related Categories
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Taste: Sweet, Chocolatey, Fruity, Rich, Decadent