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Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dates and Hazelnuts:
- Start by pitting the Medjool dates. If your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes to soften them before using. Once softened, drain the water.
- Roughly chop the hazelnuts. You’ll need some for the truffle mixture and extra for coating the truffles later.
2. Blend the Truffle Base:
- In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, chopped hazelnuts (1/2 cup), cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
- Pulse until the mixture is finely ground and begins to stick together. The dates will act as the natural sweetener, giving the truffles their sticky consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the processor a few times to ensure everything is well mixed.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water or a bit more coconut oil to help it come together.
3. Shape the Truffles:
- Once the mixture is well combined and holds together, scoop out small amounts (about 1 tablespoon) and roll them into balls using your hands. You should get about 12-14 truffles, depending on the size you make them.
- For extra crunch and flavor, roll each truffle in the reserved chopped hazelnuts, pressing lightly so the nuts stick to the surface.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
- In a small bowl, break the dark chocolate into pieces and melt it. You can melt it in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, or use a double boiler on the stove.
- Once melted, stir in the coconut oil (if using) to give the chocolate a smoother consistency.
5. Coat the Truffles:
- Dip each truffle into the melted dark chocolate, using a fork to lift them out. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the truffles back on a parchment-lined tray.
- After coating in chocolate, return the truffles to the fridge to set for 15-20 minutes or until the chocolate hardens.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the chocolate has hardened, your Sugar-Free Hazelnut Date Chocolate Truffles are ready to enjoy! Serve them chilled or at room temperature. They also make a great gift when packaged in a cute box or jar.
Tips for the Perfect Sugar-Free Hazelnut Date Chocolate Truffles:
- Choosing the Right Dates: Medjool dates are the best option for this recipe because they are soft, sticky, and naturally sweet. If using other dates, ensure they are soft and moist, as dry dates can make the mixture harder to blend.
- Customize the Coating: If you want to add more texture, try rolling the truffles in unsweetened shredded coconut, chopped dark chocolate, or even a dusting of cocoa powder.
- Make It Nut-Free: If you have a nut allergy or prefer not to use hazelnuts, you can substitute the hazelnuts with sunflower seeds, oats, or even almonds. You can also leave the nuts out entirely and use the date mixture as a base for chocolate truffles.
- Storage: Store your truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They also freeze well for longer storage—simply thaw them before serving.
Why You’ll Love These Truffles:
These Sugar-Free Hazelnut Date Chocolate Truffles are everything you want in a treat—decadent, rich, and indulgent—but with none of the added sugars or refined ingredients. The combination of dates, cocoa powder, and hazelnuts provides natural sweetness, healthy fats, and a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the smooth dark chocolate coating.
They’re a healthier alternative to store-bought chocolates and candy, and they’re a great option for those following a sugar-free, vegan, or gluten-free diet. Plus, the ingredients are simple and wholesome, so you can enjoy these truffles without any guilt.
Final Thoughts:
These Sugar-Free Hazelnut Date Chocolate Truffles are the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth while keeping things healthy and natural. With their creamy, chocolatey center and crunchy hazelnut coating, they’ll satisfy any dessert craving in the most delightful way.
Whether you’re treating yourself, serving them at a party, or gifting them to someone special, these truffles are sure to impress. Whip up a batch today and enjoy the delicious goodness of these nutrient-packed, sugar-free truffles!
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