Save Rich, naturally sweet truffles featuring dates, toasted walnuts, and a dusting of cocoa powder offer a delicious healthy treat whenever you crave something special. This simple recipe is perfect for gifting or enjoying as a wholesome dessert any time.
I first made these truffles when searching for a no-bake dessert that everyone in my family could enjoy. The combination of dates and walnuts creates a luxurious texture and natural sweetness that keeps us coming back for more.
Ingredients
- Walnuts: 1 cup (120 g), toasted
- Medjool dates: 1 cup (180 g), pitted (about 10–12 large dates)
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Sea salt: 1/4 tsp
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 2 tbsp (for coating)
Instructions
- Toast the walnuts:
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Allow to cool.
- Process nuts:
- Place toasted walnuts in a food processor and pulse until finely ground.
- Make dough:
- Add dates, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Process until a sticky dough forms and the mixture comes together.
- Shape truffles:
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into balls using your hands.
- Coat truffles:
- Place cocoa powder in a shallow bowl. Roll each truffle in cocoa powder to coat evenly.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate truffles for at least 20 minutes before serving to firm up.
Save Making these truffles together has become a fun family weekend tradition, especially when preparing edible gifts for friends. Everyone loves rolling the mixture and dusting the truffles with cocoa.
Required Tools
Food processor, skillet, mixing bowl, and measuring cups are all you need for quick preparation.
Allergen Information
These treats are gluten-free and dairy-free, but always double-check ingredient labels if using flavored cocoa powder or vanilla extract.
Nutritional Information
Each truffle contains approximately 70 calories, 4.5 g total fat, 7 g carbohydrates, and 1.2 g protein.
Save Enjoy these cocoa-dusted truffles as a healthy dessert or share them as a thoughtful homemade gift. Their rich flavor and satisfying bite are sure to impress.
Common Questions
- → How are the walnuts prepared?
Walnuts are dry toasted in a skillet for 3–4 minutes until fragrant, enhancing their flavor and crunch.
- → What binds the mixture together?
The sticky texture comes from blending pitted Medjool dates with ground toasted walnuts, vanilla, and sea salt.
- → Can I substitute other nuts?
Yes, pecans or almonds can be used instead of walnuts to alter the flavor and texture.
- → What gives the final coating its flavor?
Unsweetened cocoa powder is used to coat each bite, adding a subtle bitter contrast to the sweet filling.
- → How should these treats be stored?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness and firmness.
- → Are there any allergen concerns?
Contains tree nuts; also gluten-free and dairy-free but check cocoa powder and vanilla labels for additives.