Rich, creamy, and naturally sweetened, these bite-sized vegan truffles blend dates and dark chocolate for a decadent yet wholesome treat—perfect for dessert or gifting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Healthy Vegan Chocolate Truffles are the perfect guilt-free indulgence. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they’re also a nutritious alternative to traditional chocolate truffles. With Medjool dates for natural sweetness and raw cacao powder for a deep chocolate flavor, these truffles offer a rich taste without any refined sugars or dairy. They’re vegan, gluten-free, and require no baking, making them a perfect option for anyone looking for a healthier dessert. Plus, they can be customized with a variety of coatings like shredded coconut, nuts, or cacao nibs for added texture.
Ingredients
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1 cup Medjool dates, pitted and soaked in warm water for 10 minutes
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½ cup raw cacao powder, plus extra for rolling
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¼ cup almond butter (or other nut/seed butter)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of sea salt
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the Dates: Start by soaking the Medjool dates in warm water for about 10 minutes. This softens them and makes them easier to blend. After soaking, drain them well.
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Blend the Mixture: Place the soaked dates in a food processor or high-speed blender. Blend until they form a smooth paste, scraping down the sides as necessary.
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Add the Other Ingredients: To the date paste, add the almond butter, raw cacao powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Blend again until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough-like consistency.
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Form the Truffles: Use a small cookie scoop or teaspoon to portion the mixture, then roll the portions into 1-inch balls using your hands.
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Roll the Truffles: Roll each ball in extra cacao powder (or shredded coconut, crushed nuts, or cacao nibs for a unique twist). This step adds an extra layer of texture and flavor to the truffles.
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Chill: Place the rolled truffles on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Servings and Timing
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Prep Time: 15 minutes (including soaking)
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Chilling Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 45 minutes
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Servings: ~16 truffles
Variations
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Coating Variations: Instead of cacao powder, roll the truffles in shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or even cocoa nibs for added texture and flavor.
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Nut Butter Swap: You can substitute almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different twist on flavor.
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Sweetness Adjustments: If you prefer a sweeter truffle, feel free to add a small drizzle of maple syrup or agave nectar to the mixture.
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Add-ins: For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a few drops of orange extract.
Storage/Reheating
Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They also freeze well, so feel free to make a large batch and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Simply allow them to thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use another type of date besides Medjool dates?
Medjool dates are best for this recipe because of their soft texture and natural sweetness. However, if you can’t find them, you can use other dates like Deglet Noor, but you may need to soak them a little longer to soften.
How do I know when the truffles are firm enough to eat?
Once the truffles have chilled in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, they should be firm and hold their shape when rolled. You can leave them longer if you prefer them to be firmer.
Can I make these truffles ahead of time?
Yes! These truffles can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for later use. They make great make-ahead treats for events, holidays, or simply as a snack.
Can I make these truffles with a different nut butter?
Absolutely! You can swap almond butter with peanut butter, sunflower seed butter, or cashew butter. Each variation will bring a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment.
Are these truffles safe for those with nut allergies?
If you’re making these for someone with a nut allergy, simply swap the almond butter for a seed butter like sunflower seed butter or pumpkin seed butter.
Conclusion
These Healthy Vegan Chocolate Truffles are an indulgent yet wholesome treat you can feel good about eating. They’re naturally sweetened, packed with nutrients, and easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a guilt-free dessert, or a thoughtful homemade gift, these truffles are the perfect solution. Enjoy the rich, creamy chocolate flavor with the added benefits of plant-based ingredients!
Print
Healthy Vegan Chocolate Truffles
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: ~16 truffles
Description
Rich, creamy, and naturally sweetened, these bite‑sized vegan truffles blend dates and dark chocolate for a decadent yet wholesome treat—perfect for dessert or gifting.
Ingredients
1 cup Medjool dates, pitted and soaked in warm water for 10 minutes
½ cup raw cacao powder, plus extra for rolling
¼ cup almond butter (or other nut/seed butter)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
1. Drain soaked dates and add to a food processor or high-speed blender. Blend until they form a smooth paste.
2. Add almond butter, cacao powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend again until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough-like consistency.
3. Use a small cookie scoop or teaspoon to portion the mixture, then roll into 1″ balls with your hands.
4. Roll each ball in additional cacao powder (or shredded coconut, crushed nuts, or cacao nibs if desired).
5. Place truffles on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time:: 30 minutes
