Date Walnut Truffles Cocoa Dust

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 date & walnut truffles for a family gathering and they disappeared within minutes. The combination of naturally sweet dates and rich toasted walnuts rolled in cocoa is both satisfying and wholesome.

Ingredients

• Walnuts: 1 cup (120 g), toasted
• Pitted Medjool dates: 1 cup (180 g), about 10 to 12 large dates
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Sea salt: 1/4 tsp
• Cocoa powder: 2 tbsp, unsweetened, for coating

Instructions

Toast walnuts:

Preheat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Let cool.

Grind walnuts:

Place cooled toasted walnuts in a food processor and pulse until finely ground.

Blend with dates and flavorings:

Add pitted dates, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Process until a sticky dough forms and the mixture starts to come together.

Shape truffles:

Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll into balls using your hands.

Coat truffles:

Place cocoa powder in a shallow bowl. Roll each truffle in cocoa powder until evenly coated.

Refrigerate:

Chill truffles for at least 20 minutes before serving to firm up.

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My kids love to help roll these truffles and dust them with cocoa, making it a favorite activity during the holidays.

Variations & Customization

For extra flavor, try adding 1 tsp ground cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne to the mixture. You can also substitute pecans or almonds for walnuts if you prefer.

Serving Suggestions

These truffles are wonderful as a post-dinner treat, packed lunch addition, or arranged in a gift box for festive celebrations.

Nutrition & Allergies

Each truffle contains about 70 calories, 4.5 g total fat, 7 g carbohydrates, and 1.2 g protein. Note that this recipe contains tree nuts.

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Enjoy these wholesome truffles as a quick energy boost or share as a thoughtful, homemade gift!

Recipe FAQ

→ How can walnuts be toasted evenly?

Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant to ensure even browning.

→ What is the best date variety to use?

Medjool dates are ideal due to their soft texture and natural sweetness, which helps bind the mixture well.

→ Can other nuts replace walnuts?

Yes, pecans or almonds can be substituted, providing different but complementary flavors and textures.

→ Why roll the mixture in cocoa powder?

Cocoa powder adds a rich, slightly bitter coating that balances the natural sweetness and enhances flavor depth.

→ How should these treats be stored?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness and firmness.

→ What options exist to vary flavor profiles?

Adding ground cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne introduces warmth or spice, elevating the overall taste experience.