Dark Chocolate & Almond Butter Stuffed Dates

This is the dessert for when you need something sweet right now. Medjool dates stuffed with almond butter, dipped in dark chocolate, and sprinkled with sea salt. They taste like a proper confection. They take five minutes.

Ingredients (Makes 8):

• 8 Medjool dates, pitted
• 2 tbsp almond butter
• 50g dark chocolate (70% or higher), melted
• Flaky sea salt

Method:

1. Slice each date open lengthways (don't cut all the way through). Remove the stone if there is one.
2. Spoon a little almond butter into each date. Press closed gently.
3. Dip each date halfway into the melted dark chocolate. Place on a tray lined with parchment.
4. Sprinkle with a few flakes of sea salt.
5. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to set. Store in the fridge.

Why it's gut-friendly: Dates are rich in fibre and natural sweetness. Almond butter provides healthy fats. Dark chocolate contains prebiotic polyphenols. A small, rich, satisfying treat.