Vegan Chocolate Truffles

These yummy treats are super easy to make and just the right combination of “sweet” and “good for you.” Dates are an amazing source of dietary fiber and iron as well as tannins which are known to be anti-infective and anti-inflammatory. These plump and sweet fruits are so rich in essential vitamins and minerals that they are the food of choice when breaking a fast. They are also a great source of quick and easy energy. The cashews and almonds provide a good source of healthy fats and the raw cacao is extremely high in anti-oxidants. So, next time you reach for a sweet, empty calorie treat, think how easy it would be to make one that is nutrient dense.

This is a great recipe to make with your kids. It requires no cooking and the fun value of using the blender is very high. Kids also enjoy rolling the paste into balls. I find that involving my kids in the process of food preparation makes food fun for them. It also opens up their minds to new foods and possibilities.

Cooking with your kids is a great way for them to learn math and practical life skills. Also, the more they are involved in the process, the more interested they are in eating the final product.

Vegan Chocolate Truffles

By Tapp, April 14, 2013

Yields @20 truffles

Ingredients:

dates - 1 cup
cashews - raw, 1/2 cup
Cashews make you feel good and look good. High in minerals, they support your heart ,brain, bone and nerve health. These nuts are good for your skin and nails and are also an effective anti-depressant.
almonds - raw, 1/2 cup
Almonds are a rich source of Vitamin E, calcium, folic acid, as well as the minerals magnesium, selenuim, phosphorus and zinc. Almonds are wonderful for maintaining skin elasticity as well as helping to lower cholesterol. They are also a good source of protein.
raw cacao powder - 3/4 cup
Raw Cacao is rich in cell-protecting anti-oxidants, as well as containing a wide variety of vitamins and minerals. This wonderful bean not only makes everything taste good, it makes us feel good too.
coconut - shredded, unsweetened 1/2 cup
maple syrup - 1/2 cup
vanilla extract - 2 teaspoons
salt - 1/2 teaspoon
almonds - raw- extra 20 for inside truffles
Almonds are a rich source of Vitamin E, calcium, folic acid, as well as the minerals magnesium, selenuim, phosphorus and zinc. Almonds are wonderful for maintaining skin elasticity as well as helping to lower cholesterol. They are also a good source of protein.
For Topping: -
coconut - shredded 1 tablespoon
cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
raw cacao powder - 1 teaspoon
Raw Cacao is rich in cell-protecting anti-oxidants, as well as containing a wide variety of vitamins and minerals. This wonderful bean not only makes everything taste good, it makes us feel good too.

Instructions:

In a high speed blender or food processor, blend together the dates, cashews and almonds until they form a crumble-paste. Add a little warm water if the paste is too thick-it shouldn’t be totally smooth and it shouldn’t be wet; it should be crumbly with nutty pieces in it.

4 truffles on plate

Add the raw cacao powder and blend.

Add in the maple syrup, vanilla, coconut and salt and blend until completely incorporated. Make sure you stop and scrape down the sides of the blender a few times to keep the mixture moving.

Measure the truffle mixture out as 1 tablespoon each.

If the dough is too sticky at this point, put it in the freezer for 10 minutes; it is easier to manage when it is cold.

Place one of the raw almonds into the middle of the truffle and roll into balls. Coat with shredded coconut, cinnamon or raw cacao.

I find the easiest way to coat the truffles is to put whatever topping you choose into a plastic or paper bag. One by one put the truffles in and shake. Kids LOVE this part.

While the truffles can be eaten right away, they are better when eaten cold. For best results, place the truffles in the freezer and allow them to harden for at least an hour. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months (though they would be lucky to last until the end of the day). Remove from freezer 10 minutes before serving.

truffles w-tea 4