Decadent Chocolate Covered Apricots: A Simple Sweet Treat

I remember the first time I had a chocolate covered apricot. It was at a small farmers market in Provence, France. The sun was warm, the air was filled with the scent of lavender, and the stall was overflowing with the most vibrant, plump apricots I had ever seen. The vendor dipped one in rich, dark chocolate right before my eyes, and that first bite – the sweet, tangy fruit against the intense, slightly bitter chocolate – was pure bliss. It was a simple pleasure, elevated by the quality of the ingredients and the beauty of the moment. Now, I recreate that feeling in my own kitchen, and I’m so excited to share this easy recipe with you!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 30
• Yield: 30 pieces
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 30 dried apricots
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon solid shortening (such as Crisco)

Equipment Needed

• Small microwave-safe bowl
• Microwave
• Spoon or fork
• Waxed paper or parchment paper
• Refrigerator

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your workstation. Lay a sheet of waxed paper or parchment paper on a flat surface. This will be where you place the dipped apricots to cool.

2. In a small microwave-safe bowl, place the semi-sweet chocolate chips.

3. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between each interval to ensure even melting and prevent burning. It’s crucial to monitor the chocolate closely.

4. Once the chocolate is mostly melted but still has some unmelted bits, add the solid shortening to the bowl.

5. Continue to stir until the shortening is completely blended into the melted chocolate and the mixture is smooth and glossy. The shortening helps to thin the chocolate slightly and gives it a nice shine, as well as prevents blooming.

6. Now, it’s time to dip the dried apricots. Hold an apricot by one end and dip it half-way into the melted chocolate.

7. Gently shake off any excess chocolate to prevent the coating from being too thick.

8. Place the chocolate-dipped apricot onto the prepared waxed paper or parchment paper.

9. Repeat the dipping process with the remaining apricots and chocolate.

10. Allow the chocolate to set completely at room temperature. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the ambient temperature.

11. Once the chocolate has set, transfer the chocolate covered apricots to the refrigerator to chill for at least 15 minutes. Refrigerating helps the chocolate to harden completely and gives the apricots a firmer texture.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Chocolate Choice: While semi-sweet chocolate is classic, feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate offers a more intense flavor, while milk chocolate creates a sweeter treat. White chocolate can also be used for a beautiful contrast.
• Melting Chocolate: The key to perfectly melted chocolate is patience. Microwaving in short intervals and stirring frequently prevents burning. If you prefer, you can melt the chocolate in a double boiler over simmering water.
• Apricot Selection: Choose plump, moist dried apricots for the best results. If your apricots are particularly dry, you can plump them up slightly by soaking them in warm water for a few minutes and then patting them dry before dipping.
• Blooming Prevention: The addition of shortening helps to prevent chocolate bloom, which is the white, powdery coating that can sometimes appear on chocolate as the cocoa butter separates. If you skip the shortening, be sure to store the finished apricots in a cool, dry place to minimize the risk of blooming.
• Elevated Presentation: Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle the dipped apricots with chopped nuts (such as pistachios or almonds), shredded coconut, or a pinch of sea salt for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Temperature Control: Ensure the bowl is dry. Even a single drop of water can cause the chocolate to seize.
• Thinning the Chocolate: If the chocolate is too thick, you can add a tiny bit more shortening, 1/4 teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these chocolate covered apricots as a delightful appetizer, a sweet ending to a meal, or a homemade gift. They are perfect alongside a cup of coffee or tea.

Store the chocolate covered apricots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be stored in the freezer for longer storage (up to a month), although the texture of the apricots may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, layer the apricots between sheets of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. There is no need to reheat, enjoy them straight from the fridge!

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	34.1 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	11 g	34%
Total Fat	1.3 g	2%
Saturated Fat	0.6 g	3%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	1 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	6.2 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.7 g	2%
Sugars	5.3 g	21%
Protein	0.3 g	0%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Dark Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Use dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70% or higher) for a richer, more intense flavor.
• Nutty Indulgence: Dip the apricots in chocolate and then roll them in chopped toasted nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
• Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the melted chocolate for a bright, citrusy twist.
• Spicy Kick: Stir a pinch of cayenne pepper into the melted chocolate for a subtle heat.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan chocolate chips and a vegan shortening alternative.
• Dried Fruit Medley: Experiment with other dried fruits like cranberries, cherries, or figs.
• Yogurt Covered Option: Instead of chocolate, dip the apricots in Greek yogurt and freeze for a healthier treat.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?
A: While you can use fresh apricots, the result will be quite different. Fresh apricots contain more moisture, so the chocolate may not adhere as well, and the apricots will need to be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within a day or two.

Q: My chocolate seized up when I was melting it. What did I do wrong?
A: Chocolate seizes when even a tiny amount of water comes into contact with it. Ensure your bowl and spoon are completely dry before melting the chocolate. If it does seize, you can sometimes salvage it by stirring in a tablespoon of hot water at a time until it smooths out, but the texture may not be ideal.

Q: Can I temper the chocolate for a shinier finish?
A: Yes, tempering the chocolate will result in a more professional-looking finish that is glossy and snaps nicely. However, for this simple recipe, it’s not essential.

Q: How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?
A: Adding a small amount of shortening to the chocolate helps to keep it pliable and prevents cracking. Avoid sudden temperature changes, which can also cause the chocolate to crack.

Q: Can I use a different type of fat instead of shortening?
A: You can use coconut oil, but it will give the chocolate a slight coconut flavor. Butter is not recommended as it contains water and can affect the chocolate’s texture.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Covered Apricots are a testament to the fact that the simplest things are often the most satisfying. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a truly delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chocolatier, and enjoy the sweet, tangy, and utterly irresistible combination of apricots and chocolate. I encourage you to experiment with different variations and share your creations with friends and family. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know what you think!