15 Minute Healthy Dark Chocolate Truffles

8 steps · 45 min total

1. 01

   Soak the Dates

   Place the dates in hot water to soften them while you gather the remaining ingredients; they'll need about 5 minutes. The water should be hot to the touch, but not scalding.
2. 02

   Process Almonds

   Add the slivered almonds to a food processor and pulse until they form a coarse meal.
3. 03

   Add Pecans

   Toss in the pecans and continue to pulse until they're also ground into a coarse meal alongside the almonds.
4. 04

   Drain Dates

   Drain the softened dates, then use your hand to squeeze out any excess water. You want them pliable, but not dripping wet.
5. 05

   Make Truffle Base

   Return the drained dates to the food processor, along with the cocoa powder, vanilla extract, agave nectar, and sea salt. Process until the mixture comes together into a smooth, thick paste. It should hold its shape when pressed.
6. 06

   Form Truffles

   Use a tablespoon measure to help form the truffles. Scoop a heaping tablespoon of the mixture and really pack it into the measure. Gently slide the half-rounded ball out with your fingers.

   Then, use your hands to firmly squish and shape it into a tightly packed sphere. I find they hold their shape better if you press and squish them into balls rather than trying to roll them loosely.

7. 07

   Finish Forming

   Continue forming truffles until all the mixture is used. If there's a tiny bit left that's not enough for a full truffle, consider it a chef's treat.
8. 08

   Coat Truffles

   If you like, gently roll the formed truffles in your chosen topping. Unsweetened coconut flakes or extra cocoa powder work well. Keep in mind that cocoa powder will add a more intense, slightly bitter dark chocolate note, so skip it if that's not what you're after.