How do I toast walnuts properly?

Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring until fragrant and lightly browned. Cool before use.

Can I substitute other nuts for walnuts?

Yes, pecans or almonds can be substituted to vary flavor and texture while maintaining a nutty richness.

Cocoa powder adds a rich, slightly bitter coating that balances the sweetness of dates and enhances overall flavor.

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

Yes, these treats are vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making them suitable for various 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 gift for a friend who loves healthy desserts. They were a hit at the party, and everyone asked for the recipe.

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

My kids love rolling the truffles in cocoa powder and sneaking a taste before they're even refrigerated.

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

Contains tree nuts (walnuts). Gluten-free and dairy-free, double-check labels if using flavored cocoa powder or vanilla extract.

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

Serve these truffles cold with coffee for maximum enjoyment. They make a thoughtful and delicious edible gift.

→ How do I toast walnuts properly?: Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring until fragrant and lightly browned. Cool before use.
→ Can I substitute other nuts for walnuts?: Yes, pecans or almonds can be substituted to vary flavor and texture while maintaining a nutty richness.
→ What is the role of cocoa powder in these treats?: Cocoa powder adds a rich, slightly bitter coating that balances the sweetness of dates and enhances overall flavor.
→ How should I store these nut and date bites?: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness and firmness.
→ Are these bites suitable for special diets?: Yes, these treats are vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making them suitable for various dietary preferences.