Valentines Snacks Chocolate Covered Apricots

Name: Valentines Snacks Chocolate Covered Apricots
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried apricots; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional for drizzling); Sea salt (for sprinkling, optional)

Highlighted under: Occasion Collection

I absolutely love making these chocolate-covered apricots for Valentine's Day! It's a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of dried apricots with rich, smooth chocolate. The contrast of flavors and textures makes it a perfect gift for loved ones or even for myself. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make and require just a few ingredients. Every time I prepare them, I am reminded of special moments spent with my family, sharing delicious snacks and stories together.

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:13:37.822Z

When I first tried chocolate-covered apricots, I was entranced by the harmony of flavors. The chewy apricots paired beautifully with silky chocolate, creating an indulgent yet healthy treat! I realized that by using high-quality dark chocolate, I could elevate the taste and keep the sweetness balanced. Every bite brings a burst of fruity flavor that complements the richness of the chocolate.

Additionally, I discovered that drizzling a bit of white chocolate on top not only adds visual appeal but also a touch of creamy sweetness. This technique makes them even more special for gifting. These snacks not only satisfy my sweet tooth but also remind me of the joy of sharing homemade treats.

        You'll Love These Treats Because
        Rich, fruity flavor with a chocolatey indulgence
Easy to make and perfect for sharing
A unique twist on traditional chocolate-covered snacks

      

Perfecting Your Chocolate Coating

The key to achieving a smooth and shiny chocolate coating lies in the melting process. When melting dark chocolate chips, do it slowly in the microwave using 30-second intervals. Stir after each interval to avoid overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize. You'll know it's ready when the chocolate is glossy and can easily coat the back of a spoon. For a richer flavor, consider using chocolate with a higher cocoa content, but be mindful that it will have a stronger taste compared to milk chocolate.

If you find the chocolate too thick to coat the apricots smoothly, you can add a teaspoon of vegetable oil or coconut oil to the melted chocolate. This will help achieve a thinner consistency that coats the apricots more easily and creates a beautiful, even layer. Just keep in mind that adding oil might slightly alter the flavor and texture, but it can make dipping a much simpler task.

Personalizing Your Treats

While the classic dark chocolate coating is a sumptuous choice, you can easily customize these treats to match your taste or theme. For example, adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts or shredded coconut on top of the chocolate before it sets can add delightful crunch and flavor. If you wish to make a more festive version, consider adding colorful sprinkles or edible glitter to impress your recipient, particularly for celebrations like Valentine’s Day.

Additionally, feel free to switch up the chocolate types. Milk chocolate or white chocolate can be used for dipping for a sweeter profile. If you're looking for a more nuanced flavor, try flavored chocolates, like sea salt caramel or orange-infused chocolate. Each variation will impart a unique vibe to your snacks, making them even more special!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your chocolate-covered apricots are set, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to two weeks, though I find they tend to disappear much quicker! If you want to keep them for a longer time, you can freeze them. Just layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they will maintain their flavor and texture for about three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to enjoy them at their best.

These treats can be a fantastic addition to any dessert platter or served alongside a fresh fruit salad. They also pair wonderfully with wine or other festive beverages for a romantic evening. If you're feeling creative, consider using chocolate-covered apricots for a fun take on dessert skewers by threading them onto sticks with berries and mini marshmallows, making them perfect for sharing!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious chocolate-covered apricots.

Ingredients

1 cup dried apricots
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional for drizzling)
Sea salt (for sprinkling, optional)

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let's dive into the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your chocolate-covered apricots.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until completely melted and smooth.

Dip the Apricots

Using a fork, dip each dried apricot into the melted dark chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them on parchment paper-lined baking sheets.

Drizzle with White Chocolate

If using, melt the white chocolate chips in the same way as the dark chocolate. Drizzle over the dipped apricots for a decorative touch.

Chill and Serve

Sprinkle with sea salt if desired and place the tray in the refrigerator for 15 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened. Serve and enjoy!

Your chocolate-covered apricots are now ready to impress!

Pro Tips

Using high-quality chocolate can make a significant difference in taste. Don't skip the sea salt sprinkle for an added flavor contrast.

Tips for Perfect Dipping

To achieve a clean and professional-looking finish, use a dipping tool or a fork specifically designed for chocolate dipping. This will help you control the chocolate-covered apricots better and ensure they don’t end up with too much extra chocolate. Be sure to give each apricot a little shake after dipping to allow excess chocolate to drip off, preventing them from being overly thick.

If you find that the chocolate hardens too quickly while you're dipping, you can return it to the microwave for 5-10 seconds to reheat. Just be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the chocolate to become grainy or lose its melting qualities. Keeping the chocolate warm can make the dipping process much smoother and more enjoyable.

Understanding the Ingredients

Dried apricots are not only the star of this recipe but also contribute essential nutrients like fiber and antioxidants. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate, creating a well-balanced flavor profile. Look for apricots that have a vibrant orange color; avoid overly dry or tough specimens as they can be difficult to bite into and may not provide the best texture.

Using dark chocolate chips brings approximately 70% cocoa solids into your recipe, which is known for its health benefits. It's essential to choose high-quality chocolate for melting, as it affects both taste and texture. Chocolate chips specifically labeled for melting will yield better results than regular chocolate bars, which may seize or not melt evenly.

Going Beyond Apricots

If you're looking to explore beyond dried apricots, this chocolate coating technique works beautifully with a variety of dried fruits. Consider trying figs, mangoes, or even bananas. Each fruit will impart its unique flavor, and the process remains the same. Just be sure the fruits are fully dried to ensure proper chocolate adherence and a satisfying texture.

For a surprise twist, you can also try coating nuts or pretzels in chocolate alongside the fruit. The salty crunch of pretzels or the nutty richness of almonds complements the sweet, fruity apricots perfectly, making for a deliciously varied treat platter. Don't hesitate to get creative!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate will work, but it will result in a sweeter flavor.

→ How long do these have to be stored?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I add nuts to the apricots?

Absolutely! Chopped almonds or walnuts would add a nice crunch.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses dried fruits and chocolate.