If you’re craving a bite-sized indulgence that feels both luxurious and wholesome, this Chocolate Almond Truffles Recipe is going to become your new favorite. These delightful little morsels combine the natural sweetness of medjool dates with the rich complexity of dark cocoa and the satisfying crunch of almonds, delivering a texture and flavor party in every bite. Whether you’re looking for an elegant homemade treat to impress guests or a personal pick-me-up, these truffles are simple to make yet incredibly rewarding.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a joy because each one plays a key part in creating the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and nutty notes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how every component contributes to the overall flavor and texture.
- 10 medjool dates (seeds removed and halved): Naturally sweet and sticky, they act as the perfect base to bind the truffles together.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm floral undertones that elevate the chocolate’s richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract: Gives a subtle nutty aroma that complements the almond butter beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons creamy almond butter (salted optional): Brings creaminess and depth of flavor with a hint of saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon coconut butter: Adds a luscious, tropical smoothness that enhances mouthfeel.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut flakes: Introduces a mild coconut flavor and a delicate texture contrast.
- 2 tablespoons dark cocoa powder: Provides the intense chocolatey punch for those truffle cravings.
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and deepens the chocolate flavor.
- 1/4 cup almonds (finely chopped for rolling): Offers a delightful crunch on the outside and looks beautiful too.
How to Make Chocolate Almond Truffles Recipe
Step 1: Pulse Dates and Extracts
Start by combining the medjool dates with the vanilla and almond extracts in your food processor. Pulse these until the dates are coarsely chopped, giving the mixture a sticky, fragrant foundation to work from. This step unlocks the natural sweetness and aroma that forms the soul of the truffles.
Step 2: Blend in Nut Butters
Next, add the creamy almond butter and coconut butter to the food processor. Continue processing until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture smoothly starts to come together. This blend creates a silky texture, rich flavor, and healthy fats that elevate the truffles beyond a simple snack.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Salt
Now, toss in your unsweetened coconut flakes, dark cocoa powder, and kosher salt. Blend until the mixture becomes sticky to the touch and can easily be rolled into balls. This step is crucial because it balances the flavors and ensures the perfect consistency for shaping your truffles.
Step 4: Form the Truffles
Using a tablespoon-sized spoon, scoop out the mixture and roll it into balls with your hands. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly round—they will still taste amazing and can be smoothed out when rolling in almonds.
Step 5: Roll in Chopped Almonds
Place the chopped almonds in a small dish and gently roll each truffle in the nuts. Press slightly so the almonds stick well, creating a crunchy, nutty coating that offers a satisfying contrast to the silky interior.
Step 6: Chill to Set
Arrange the truffles on a plate and pop them into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps them firm up, making them easier to handle and enjoy.
Step 7: Store and Enjoy
Once chilled, keep your delicious truffles covered in the fridge. They will last for several days, ready whenever you need a chocolate-almond pick-me-up.
How to Serve Chocolate Almond Truffles Recipe
Garnishes
To make these truffles feel even more special, consider sprinkling extra cocoa powder, shredded coconut, or a pinch of sea salt on top. These simple touches boost their visual appeal and add another layer of flavor dimension that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try them.
Side Dishes
Chocolate Almond Truffles pair beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, hot tea, or even a glass of chilled almond milk. Their rich flavor balances refreshingly with warm or cold beverages, making for a perfect treat any time of the day.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking of gifting these or serving them at a party? Place your truffles in mini decorative cupcake liners or arrange them artistically on a wooden platter with sprigs of fresh mint or edible flowers. Presentation can elevate these bite-sized gems into something truly unforgettable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover truffles should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps them fresh and maintains their texture for up to one week. They’re the perfect sweet treat ready to grab when a craving strikes.
Freezing
You can also freeze these truffles for longer storage. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating
These truffles are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer a softer texture, allow them to sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different nut butter instead of almond butter?
Absolutely! Peanut butter or cashew butter can work as substitutes, but keep in mind that they will change the flavor profile. Almond butter provides a mild, nutty taste that complements the chocolate perfectly, so if possible, stick to almond butter when making this recipe.
Are these truffles vegan-friendly?
Yes, this Chocolate Almond Truffles Recipe is completely vegan as it contains no animal products. The natural sweetness from dates and richness from almond and coconut butters keep them indulgently satisfying while still plant-based.
How long do these truffles last?
Stored properly in the fridge, these truffles will stay fresh for about a week. If you want them to last longer, freezing is a great option and won’t compromise the flavor or texture.
Can I make these truffles without a food processor?
While a food processor makes blending and achieving the right texture much easier, you can finely chop the dates and almonds, then mix everything by hand. It will take more elbow grease, but you can still enjoy these delicious truffles!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients used in this Chocolate Almond Truffles Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe and delicious treat for folks avoiding gluten.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Chocolate Almond Truffles Recipe is one of those delightful discoveries that you’ll want to make again and again. With simple pantry staples and minimal effort, you get a rich, indulgent treat that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Whether for yourself, friends, or family, these truffles are sure to become a beloved classic in your recipe collection. So go ahead—roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to some homemade chocolate almond magic!
Print
Chocolate Almond Truffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 9 truffles
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Deliciously rich and healthy Chocolate Almond Truffles made with medjool dates, almond butter, and cocoa powder, rolled in finely chopped almonds for an extra crunch. These naturally sweet, no-bake treats are perfect as a guilt-free snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 10 medjool dates, seeds removed and halved
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 tablespoons creamy almond butter (preferably salted)
- 1 tablespoon coconut butter
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut flakes
- 2 tablespoons dark cocoa powder
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
For Rolling
- 1/4 cup almonds, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates and Extracts: Combine the pitted medjool dates, vanilla extract, and almond extract in a food processor. Pulse until the dates are coarsely chopped, forming a sticky base.
- Add Nut Butters: Add the creamy almond butter and coconut butter to the food processor. Process the mixture until fully incorporated and it becomes smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate Remaining Ingredients: Add the unsweetened coconut flakes, dark cocoa powder, and kosher salt to the processor. Blend until the mixture is sticky and easy to roll into balls.
- Shape the Truffles: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls with your hands. Set these aside on a clean plate or tray.
- Coat with Chopped Almonds: Place the finely chopped almonds in a small dish. Roll each truffle in the chopped almonds, pressing gently so that the nuts adhere to the surface.
- Chill to Firm Up: Arrange the almond-coated truffles on a plate and refrigerate for about 30 minutes so that they firm up slightly and hold their shape better.
- Store Properly: Keep the truffles covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. They make a perfect ready-to-eat snack or dessert.
Notes
- Make sure to remove the seeds from the medjool dates before processing to avoid any bitterness or texture issues.
- If you prefer a sweeter truffle, you can add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup, but the dates provide ample natural sweetness.
- The coconut butter can be substituted with additional almond butter if unavailable.
- Use salted almond butter if you like a slight salty kick; otherwise, unsalted works just as well.
- Store the truffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
- For a festive touch, you can roll the truffles in cocoa powder, shredded coconut, or crushed pistachios as alternatives to almonds.
