Save to Pinterest Rich, naturally sweet truffles featuring dates, toasted walnuts, and a dusting of cocoa powder, perfect for a healthy treat or gift.
I discovered these date & walnut truffles while searching for vegan desserts that didn't require baking. The rich flavor and simple process have made them a staple for special occasions.
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
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 2 tbsp, for coating
Instructions
- Toast walnuts:
- Preheat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add walnuts and stir for about 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool.
- Grind walnuts:
- Place cooled walnuts in a food processor. Pulse until finely ground.
- Mix truffle dough:
- Add pitted dates, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Process until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
- Shape truffles:
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough at a time and roll into balls with your hands.
- Coat truffles:
- Put cocoa powder in a shallow bowl. Roll each ball in cocoa until fully coated.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving so truffles firm up.
Save to Pinterest Whenever my family gathers for birthdays, these truffles are a requested treat. Kids enjoy rolling them in cocoa, and adults love the rich taste without added sugar.
Required Tools
You'll need a food processor, skillet for toasting, a mixing bowl, and measuring cups for this recipe.
Allergen Information
These truffles contain walnuts. If you use flavored cocoa powder or vanilla, double-check labels for gluten or dairy components.
Nutritional Information (per truffle)
Each truffle contains 70 calories, 4.5 g fat, 7 g carbohydrates, and 1.2 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Serve cold for best texture. These truffles keep well in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I toast walnuts for best flavor?
Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring often until fragrant. This enhances their natural nuttiness.
- → Can I substitute other nuts for walnuts?
Pecans or almonds work well as alternatives, offering a different flavor but similar texture when toasted.
- → What type of dates are ideal for this dish?
Medjool dates are preferred due to their soft texture and rich sweetness, making the mixture sticky and easy to shape.
- → How should these truffles be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness and firmness.
- → Can I add spices for extra flavor?
Yes, consider adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne for a unique spicy note.