Valentine's Day Tea — granolagrrl

Happy Galentine’s Day! Even though I do not have a “valentine,” I think that spreading the love for friends and family on this holiday is so important too. And, what better way to do it than throwing a little tea party? Each year, I always tell myself that want to have a big celebration for Galentine’s Day, but, life always tends to get in the way of my dreams to go “all out” in celebrating. However, throwing a little Valentine’s tea party was honestly such a cute and attainable thing, even in the midst of a busy week. Honestly, even if its a “bring your own tea and cup to a dorm” kind of event, even the idea of calling something a “tea party” will get people excited. After all, the whole purpose of Galentine’s Day is to celebrate friendships, so why not do so over a cup of tea (and maybe even some naturally sweetened desserts)!

For one of the food items at the tea, I included some chocolate dipped dates. Dates honestly make the absolute perfect dorm dessert food and they’re light yet rich - perfect for a tea party. Even if you choose to modify this recipe by not dipping the dates in melted chocolate, it will be an incredible, natural sweetness. Yes, not everyone enjoys the taste of dates, but if they’re frozen with chocolate and almond butter, they’re sure to be a hit. Although I also included this recipe in my recap post for the cooking class, the recipe is also included below!

Chocolate Dipped Dates

Shredded coconut (to top)
Medjool dates
Almond butter
Dark Chocolate Chips
Coconut oil (optional)

1.) Slice each date in half, removing the pits as you do.

2.) Fill the inside of each date with almond butter and stick both of the sides back together.

3.) Dip the dates in melted dark chocolate. (Done in the microwave by mixing chocolate chips and coconut oil, stirring every 30 seconds.)

4.) Sprinkle the chocolate tips with coconut and freeze for at least 10 minutes before enjoying.

Another dessert option that I thought was fun to put out were some date and nut truffles. Although I have made them several times before, this batch was a bit more heavy on the dates, making for a caramel-chocolate flavor even more prominent. These are a bit more time consuming that the dipped dates, so I would recommend making if you have a bit more time your hands. Also, this recipe can be hard on your blender, so it may be difficult to do if the blender is not very high in power.

Date Truffles

3 pitted medjool dates
1/2 cup almonds
1/2 cup cashews
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
1/4 cup almond milk (add more as you go if needed)
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (a handful added to blender and the rest melted to top)
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted (1 tbsp set aside for melting chocolate)
1 tbsp almond butter
coconut shreds (to top)

1.) Add all ingredients to blender, leaving some of the chocolate chips and coconut oil out. Add it chocolate chips last to make more chocolate chip cookie dough consistency.

2.) Blend until mixture reaches a doughy consistency but is still firm enough to roll into balls.

3.) Roll the blended mixture into balls, around the width of a quarter.

4.) Freeze for five minutes.

5.) While the nut balls are in the freezer, melt the chocolate and coconut oil in the microwave, stirring every 15 seconds.

6.) Take the balls out of the freezer and either dip or drizzle them with chocolate. Top with coconut if you choose!

7.) Put the balls back in the freezer for 5-10 minutes or before serving. Best served cold. Enjoy!

Simply pair one or both of these dishes with your favorite tea and you won’t be disappointed. Also, chocolate covered strawberries are never a bad idea either! I hope everyone has a fantastic Valentine’s Day! Don’t feel like you have to have a “valentine” to celebrate - self-love and friendship are just as important.