Description
These Easy Cocoa Date Truffles are a delicious and nutritious no-bake treat combining the natural sweetness of dates with rich cocoa and dark chocolate. Perfect as a healthy snack or dessert, these truffles are quick to prepare and can be customized with your favorite extracts and toppings like sea salt, shredded coconut, or nuts for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup dates, pitted
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon flavored extract (such as raspberry, orange, coconut or peppermint)
Toppings
- 1/4 cup flaky sea salt, shredded coconut, chopped nuts or freeze dried fruit (for topping or rolling)
Instructions
- Soak the Dates: Place the pitted dates in boiling water and let them soak for five minutes to soften, which makes them easier to blend. After soaking, drain the dates and reserve the soaking water for later use.
- Blend the Mixture: In a food processor, combine the soaked dates, cocoa powder, and 2 tablespoons of the reserved soaking water. Add the flavored extract if using. Process for 4-5 minutes, pausing to scrape down the sides to ensure a smooth mixture. Add additional soaking water one teaspoon at a time if needed until the mixture reaches a consistency slightly thinner than cookie dough.
- Scoop the Batter: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the truffle batter onto a parchment-lined sheet pan. The batter will be too soft to shape now; place the tray in the freezer for 10 minutes to firm up.
- Melt the Chocolate: While the truffles chill, melt the chopped dark chocolate with optional coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 60 seconds, stir well, and if lumps remain, microwave in 15-second intervals stirring in between until fully melted. Set aside.
- Roll the Truffles: Take the firmed-up truffle batter from the freezer and roll each portion between your palms into smooth balls.
- Coat with Chocolate: Using a fork, dip each truffle ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Tap the fork against the bowl edge to remove excess chocolate, then gently transfer the truffle back to the parchment-lined sheet. Immediately sprinkle your chosen topping, such as flaky sea salt or shredded coconut, while the chocolate is still wet so it adheres properly.
- Set the Chocolate: Return the coated truffles to the freezer for about 5 minutes until the chocolate hardens completely. Once set, the truffles are ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Soaking the dates is essential to soften them for a creamy blend.
- Add water gradually to avoid making the mixture too runny.
- Optional flavored extracts allow customization of taste.
- Freezing helps shape and firm up the truffles before coating.
- Coconut oil in the chocolate helps achieve a smooth, glossy coating.
- Store leftover truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: cocoa date truffles, no bake truffles, healthy dessert, vegan truffles, healthy snacks, chocolate truffles, date sweets
