Jaffa Bites
For some reason, fruit and chocolate just go hand in hand – berry chocolate, cherry chocolate, pear and chocolate, banana, and the list goes on. Orange would have to be an all time favourite in our family. A solid combination or sweet and citrus.
This recipe is a spin on my chocolate peanut butter slice and it’s a perfect example of how to alter a recipe by changing a couple of ingredients to come up with a completely new recipe.
Jaffa Bites
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 6 medjool dates
- 3 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 3 cups sugar free cornflakes
- 140 grams dark chocolate
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut cream
- 3 drops orange essential oils (if you don't have essential oils use rind of 2 oranges
The Base
Chocolate
Method
Base
- In a blender add coconut oil, cacao, pitted dates and peanut butter. Blend until smooth.
- Add the corn flakes and blend again until you get a sticky but crunchy consistency. Don’t over blend the cornflakes as you want to keep the crunch in the base. Blend slowly and check it as you go to ensure you haven’t over blended.
- Line a slice tray with baking paper and press the mixture into the tin. Push it down and create an even flat surface. Place in freezer whilst you make up the chocolate top.
Chocolate
- Melt the chocolate
- Add to the chocolate the peanut butter, coconut cream, maple syrup, orange essential oils (or grated orange rind). When adding the coconut cream, to achieve a thicker consistency, don’t stir the coconut cream. Instead when you open the can scrape the cream all off the top and then add a little bit of liquid.
- Pour chocolate over the base (that was in the freezer) and place in fridge to set.
- Slice into small squares an serve.
Notes/tips:
Freeze individual portions wrapped in baking paper and sealed
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular dates instead of medjool dates in this chocolate orange slice recipe?
Medjool dates are typically used in recipes like this for their natural sweetness and sticky texture. While you can use regular dates, you may need to adjust the quantity since medjool dates are larger and sweeter. You may need to use more regular dates to achieve the same level of sweetness. Additionally, regular dates tend to be drier, so you might want to soak them in warm water for a short time to soften them before blending them into the base mixture.
What can I use as a substitute for coconut oil in the base of this recipe?
If you prefer not to use coconut oil or have a coconut allergy, you can substitute it with other plant-based oils like melted vegan butter, olive oil, or avocado oil. Keep in mind that the choice of oil may slightly affect the flavor and texture of the base, so select one that complements the other ingredients and your taste preferences.
Can I replace the sugar-free cornflakes with a different type of cereal?
Yes, you can substitute sugar-free cornflakes with other types of cereal, such as rice cereal or gluten-free cereal, depending on your dietary preferences and restrictions. Just ensure that the cereal you choose is suitable for your dietary needs and provides a similar crunch and texture to the base.
Is there a vegan alternative to dark chocolate for the chocolate topping?
Yes, there are vegan alternatives to dark chocolate. You can use dairy-free or vegan dark chocolate, which is readily available in many grocery stores. Look for options that are specifically labeled as vegan or dairy-free, and check the ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.
Can I omit the orange essential oils or orange rind in this recipe if I don't want an orange flavor?
Absolutely! If you prefer a plain chocolate flavor without the orange twist, you can omit both the orange essential oils and the orange rind. The base chocolate and peanut butter combination will still create a delicious treat.
