Save Rich, naturally sweet truffles featuring dates, toasted walnuts, and a dusting of cocoa powder—perfect for a healthy treat or gift.
I first made these truffles for a holiday party and they were an instant hit with friends and family, especially those looking for a healthier dessert option.
Ingredients
- Walnuts: 1 cup (120 g), toasted
- Medjool dates: 1 cup (180 g), pitted (about 10 to 12 large dates)
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Sea salt: 1/4 tsp
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Toast walnuts:
- Preheat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Allow to cool.
- Grind nuts:
- Place the toasted walnuts in a food processor. Pulse until finely ground.
- Combine ingredients:
- Add the pitted dates, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Process until the mixture forms a sticky dough and starts to come together.
- Form truffles:
- Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll into balls using your hands.
- Coat with cocoa:
- Place the cocoa powder in a shallow bowl. Roll each truffle in cocoa powder until evenly coated.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the truffles for at least 20 minutes before serving to firm up.
Save Every time I make these date walnut truffles for my kids, they disappear within hours. It's a recipe they request for birthday parties and school lunches.
Required Tools
Food processor, skillet, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (walnuts). Gluten-free and dairy-free, but double-check labels if using flavored cocoa powder or vanilla extract.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 70 per truffle, Total Fat: 4.5 g, Carbohydrates: 7 g, Protein: 1.2 g
Save Enjoy these wholesome truffles as a snack or post-dinner treat. They're easy to make and perfect for gifting any time of year.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → How do I toast walnuts to enhance flavor?
Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant to bring out their natural oils and deepen flavor.
- → Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Yes, pecans or almonds work well as alternatives and provide a slightly different but delicious texture and taste.
- → What is the best way to store these cocoa-dusted bites?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness and firmness.
- → How does the cocoa powder coating affect taste?
The unsweetened cocoa powder adds a pleasant bitterness that balances the natural sweetness of dates, creating a well-rounded flavor.
- → Are there optional additions to boost flavor?
Adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne can introduce warm or spicy notes to complement the sweetness.