Save Rich, naturally sweet truffles featuring dates, toasted walnuts, and a dusting of cocoa powder—perfect for a healthy treat or gift.
I first learned to make these date & walnut truffles when searching for an easy dessert to share with vegan friends. They vanished quickly at gatherings and became a favorite healthy treat in our home.
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
- Cocoa powder: 2 tbsp, unsweetened
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Instructions
- Toast Walnuts
- Preheat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Allow to cool.
- Grind Walnuts
- Place the toasted walnuts in a food processor. Pulse until finely ground.
- Make Dough
- Add the pitted dates, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Process until the mixture forms a sticky dough and starts to come together.
- Shape Truffles
- Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll into balls using your hands.
- Roll in 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 These truffles are now a holiday staple in our house. My kids love helping shape the mixture into balls, and we gift batches to family and friends each season.
Required Tools
You'll need a food processor, skillet, mixing bowl, and measuring cups and spoons for this recipe.
Nutritional Information
Each truffle contains about 70 calories, 4.5 g total fat, 7 g carbohydrates, and 1.2 g protein.
Variations
Try adding 1 tsp ground cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne for extra flavor. Substitute pecans or almonds for walnuts if preferred.
Save Enjoy these wholesome truffles as a snack or dessert. They make delightful homemade gifts and are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Cooking Questions
- → How do I toast walnuts properly?
Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant to enhance flavor and crunch.
- → Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Yes, pecans or almonds can be used instead, offering a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
- → What is the best way to shape the truffles?
Use about a tablespoon of the mixture, rolling it between your palms until smooth and uniform in size.
- → How should the cocoa powder be applied?
Place cocoa powder in a shallow bowl and roll each ball until evenly coated for a rich, chocolatey finish.
- → How long can the finished treats be stored?
Store them refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Are these sweet balls suitable for special diets?
Yes, they are vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, accommodating many dietary preferences and restrictions.
