Chocolate, Dried Apricot and Hazelnut Goodness Bites

Here is a delicious semi-healthy and fun snack that’s easy to make. The hardest part is waiting for the chocolate bites to set. Original recipe called for dried cranberries and sunflower seeds. In this instance I used dried apricots and roasted unsalted hazelnuts, a match made in heaven. There are so many great flavor combinations to choose from, what are some of your favorites?

Inspired by “Super Foods Every Day” by Sue Quinn.


Ingredients:

1 cup roasted and unsalted hazelnuts (chopped)
½ cup dried apricots (chopped)
½ cup confectioners’ sugar (sifted)
4 ounces dark chocolate (chopped)
3 tablespoons coconut oil
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

To prepare:

Line baking sheet with parchment paper. (set baking sheet upside down on parchment paper and trace with pen or pencil, cut into correct shape).

In a heavy skillet over medium heat, warm hazelnuts until lightly toasted about 3 minutes. Add apricot pieces and sprinkle over sugar. Stir constantly until sugar has melted. Scoop and flatten mixture onto baking sheet.

In a double boiler melt chocolate and coconut oil, mix together. (Be careful not to let water get over a simmer, chocolate will seize). Remove from heat and add cream and vanilla. Stir until slightly thickened. Spoon chocolate over fruit and nut mixture, spread to cover. Chill about 2 hours. Cut into pieces.