How do I toast walnuts properly?

Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring often until fragrant and slightly browned, then cool before use.

Can I substitute other nuts for walnuts?

Yes, pecans or almonds can be used as alternatives to walnuts for a different flavor and texture profile.

Coating with cocoa powder adds a slightly bitter contrast to the sweet and nutty interior while preventing stickiness.

Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to firm up the texture before enjoying them.

Yes, they are vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making them suitable for various dietary needs.

Rich, naturally sweet truffles featuring dates, toasted walnuts, and a dusting of cocoa powder that are perfect for a healthy treat or gift.

I was inspired to make these truffles for my family when we wanted a wholesome dessert that didn&t require baking or complicated steps.

Toast walnuts:: Preheat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add walnuts and toast for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Allow to cool.
Process walnuts:: Place toasted walnuts in food processor. Pulse until finely ground.
Add dates and flavorings:: Add pitted dates, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Process until mixture forms a sticky dough and starts to come together.
Roll into balls:: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon at a time and roll into balls using your hands.
Coat truffles:: Place cocoa powder in shallow bowl. Roll each truffle in cocoa powder until evenly coated.
Chill truffles:: Refrigerate truffles for at least 20 minutes before serving to firm up.

We love making these together on a weekend afternoon, rolling the truffles and sneaking tastes as we go.

Food processor, skillet, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons

These truffles contain tree nuts but are gluten-free and dairy-free. Double-check labels for cocoa powder and vanilla extract.

Each truffle contains about 70 calories, 4.5 g total fat, 7 g carbohydrates, and 1.2 g protein.

Enjoy these nutritious bites fresh from the fridge. They make an ideal snack or a thoughtful homemade gift for loved ones!

→ How do I toast walnuts properly?: Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring often until fragrant and slightly browned, then cool before use.
→ Can I substitute other nuts for walnuts?: Yes, pecans or almonds can be used as alternatives to walnuts for a different flavor and texture profile.
→ What does rolling these bites in cocoa powder do?: Coating with cocoa powder adds a slightly bitter contrast to the sweet and nutty interior while preventing stickiness.
→ How long should these treats be refrigerated?: Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to firm up the texture before enjoying them.
→ Are these bites suitable for special diets?: Yes, they are vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making them suitable for various dietary needs.