Chocolate Peanut Butter Hearts

(A Heart-Healthy Valentine's Day Treat)

These naturally sweetened, fiber-rich treats combine dates, peanut butter, pecans, and dark chocolate for a heart-healthy indulgence.

Ingredients (Makes about 12 hearts)

For the Hearts:

• 12 Medjool dates, pitted

• ½ cup natural peanut butter (or your favourite nut/seed butter)  

• ¼ cup crushed pecans (or almonds or walnuts, or a mix, for added heart benefits)

• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed or a medley of flax + seeds, like this. (for fiber and omega-3s)

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ tsp sea salt

  
  

For the Chocolate Coating:

• ½ cup 85% dark chocolate, melted

• 1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for a smooth coating)

  
  

Toppings (Optional):

• Crushed peanuts

• Coconut flakes 

• Flaky sea salt

• Crushed freeze-dried raspberries

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Date Mixture

• In a food processor, blend the pitted dates until they form a sticky paste.

• Add the peanut butter, walnuts, flaxseed, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Blend until a dough-like consistency forms. If it's too sticky, chill for 10 minutes.

  
  

2. Shape the Hearts

• Roll the mixture into a ¼-inch thick sheet between two pieces of parchment paper.

• Shape small balls and pinch the bottom while indenting the top to form hearts. Or just roll them into little balls if you're getting antsy to eat 'em already!

• Place on a parchment-lined tray and chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up.

  
  

3. Dip in Dark Chocolate

• Melt the dark chocolate with coconut oil (if using) over a double boiler or in the microwave (20-second bursts, stirring between each).

• Dip each heart halfway or fully into the melted chocolate. Let excess drip off before placing back on parchment paper.

• Sprinkle with optional toppings for a pop of texture and flavour.

  
  

6. Set & Serve

• Refrigerate for 20 minutes until the chocolate hardens.

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Why It's Heart-Healthy

❤️ Dates – Natural sweetness + fiber to support heart health

❤️ Dark chocolate – Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids

❤️ Peanut butter & pecans – Healthy fats and protein for heart support

❤️ Flaxseed – Omega-3s to reduce inflammation

❤️ No added sugar – Naturally sweet with no refined sugar

These treats are decadent, nourishing, and perfect for sharing (or keeping for yourself!).