How do I toast walnuts for best flavor?

Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. This enhances their nutty aroma and crunch.

What is the role of dates in these truffles?

Dates act as a natural sweetener and binder, creating a sticky dough that holds the truffles together without added sugar.

Yes, pecans or almonds can be used instead of walnuts to vary the flavor and texture of the truffles.

Cocoa powder adds a rich, slightly bitter contrast that balances the sweetness while providing a smooth, velvety coating.

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

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

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 truffles as a homemade holiday gift for friends. Their naturally sweet flavor and quick prep time won everyone over instantly!

Walnuts: Use 1 cup (120 g) for the base and toast to enhance flavor.
Pitted Medjool dates: 1 cup (180 g), about 10–12 large dates, brings natural sweetness.
Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for warmth and aroma.
Sea salt: 1/4 tsp, balances flavors.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: 2 tbsp, for rolling and a slightly bitter finish.

Toast walnuts:: Preheat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add walnuts and toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Cool completely.
Process walnuts:: Place toasted walnuts in a food processor. Pulse until finely ground.
Make dough:: Add dates, vanilla extract, and sea salt to processor. Blend until a sticky dough forms.
Shape truffles:: Scoop 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into balls by hand.
Coat truffles:: Roll each truffle in cocoa powder placed in a shallow bowl until evenly coated.
Chill:: Refrigerate truffles for at least 20 minutes before serving to firm up.

My family loves these truffles as a late-night snack, especially when craving something sweet but healthy. They disappear within hours every time!

To make these truffles easily, you'll need a food processor, a skillet for toasting nuts, and a small bowl for rolling in cocoa powder.

This recipe contains tree nuts from walnuts. It's gluten-free and dairy-free, but always double-check the vanilla extract and cocoa powder labels.

Each truffle is about 70 calories, with 4.5 g total fat, 7 g carbohydrates, and 1.2 g protein per serving.

Serve these truffles chilled for best texture. They are perfect as an elegant, homemade gift or a wholesome snack!

→ How do I toast walnuts for best flavor?: Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. This enhances their nutty aroma and crunch.
→ What is the role of dates in these truffles?: Dates act as a natural sweetener and binder, creating a sticky dough that holds the truffles together without added sugar.
→ Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?: Yes, pecans or almonds can be used instead of walnuts to vary the flavor and texture of the truffles.
→ Why coat the truffles with cocoa powder?: Cocoa powder adds a rich, slightly bitter contrast that balances the sweetness while providing a smooth, velvety coating.
→ How should these treats be stored?: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness and firmness.
→ Are these suitable for special diets?: Yes, they are vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making them suitable for many dietary preferences.