Cacao Hazelnut Truffles

These cacao hazelnut truffles are a delicious and healthy treat that are easy to make. They are made with a blend of hazelnuts, dates, cacao powder, vanilla extract, sea salt, and coconut oil. The truffles are then coated in shredded coconut and chilled in the refrigerator before serving. These truffles are perfect for a snack or dessert, and they can also be given as gifts.

These cacao hazelnut truffles were inspired by a trip I took to Italy a few years ago. I was visiting a small town in the Piedmont region, and I stopped at a local chocolate shop. I ordered a cup of hot chocolate, and the barista gave me a small truffle to go with it. The truffle was so delicious that I asked the barista for the recipe. She was kind enough to oblige, and I have been making these truffles ever since.

Prep time: 20 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 10

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw hazelnuts
• 10 medjool dates, pitted
• 3 tbsp raw cacao powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
• 2 tbsp shredded coconut (for coating)

Instructions

1. In a food processor, pulse the hazelnuts until finely ground.
2. Add the dates, cacao powder, vanilla extract, sea salt, and coconut oil. Process until the mixture comes together.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
4. Put the shredded coconut in a shallow dish and roll each truffle in the coconut to coat.
5. Chill the truffles in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Why It Works

• The combination of hazelnuts, dates, cacao powder, and coconut oil creates a rich and flavorful truffle.
• The shredded coconut coating adds a bit of texture and sweetness to the truffles.
• Chilling the truffles in the refrigerator helps to firm them up and makes them easier to handle.