Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Truffles Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: PT-490858H31M45S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup raw hazelnuts; 12 Medjool dates, pitted; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons coconut flour; 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted; 1½ tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon coarse salt; ¼ cup hazelnuts or almonds, ground; ¼ cup finely shredded coconut flakes; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder blended with ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper and ¼ teaspoon coarse salt

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If you have a sweet tooth and a soft spot for all things nutty and chocolatey, this Chocolate Hazelnut Truffles Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. These little bite-sized delights pack an incredible flavor punch, with the rich, toasty essence of hazelnuts perfectly balanced by the deep, luscious cocoa. Not only are they delicious, but they also feel indulgent while being made from simple, wholesome ingredients that come together quickly for a treat that’s as satisfying to make as it is to enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A group of round chocolate truffles arranged closely on a white plate, each truffle covered with different toppings. Most truffles are dark brown with rough texture and coated in finely chopped nuts, giving a light beige speckled look. Some truffles have coarse white flakes on their surface, while others are dusted in a fine cocoa powder that is smooth and dark brown. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and a textured white cloth is partly visible in the corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, bringing texture, sweetness, and a touch of natural richness. This list is delightfully straightforward, ensuring your truffles have the perfect balance of flavor and body without any fuss.

½ cup raw hazelnuts: Adds a wonderful toasted crunch and signature hazelnut flavor.
12 Medjool dates (pitted): Natural sweetness and moisture that binds everything beautifully.
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides deep chocolate richness without extra sugar.
2 tablespoons coconut flour: Helps absorb moisture and create a fudgy texture.
1 tablespoon melted coconut oil: Adds silkiness and a subtle tropical aroma.
1½ tablespoons pure maple syrup: Enhances sweetness naturally with its warm, caramel notes.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor and adds a fragrant finish.
¼ teaspoon coarse salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate.
Optional: ¼ cup ground hazelnuts or almonds: Boosts nuttiness and adds texture variation.
Optional: ¼ cup finely shredded coconut flakes: Adds a lovely chew and tropical flair on the outside.
Optional coating mix: 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder mixed with ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper and ¼ teaspoon coarse salt for a spicy kick.

How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Truffles Recipe

Step 1: Soak Your Dates

Start by soaking your pitted Medjool dates in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes. This softens them up so they’ll blend more easily, creating that perfect creamy base for your truffles. It’s a simple step that makes a huge difference in texture.

Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace

Line a rimmed baking sheet with wax paper to keep your truffles from sticking later on. At the same time, set out any coatings you want to use—whether that’s more finely ground nuts, coconut flakes, or the spicy cocoa blend—on shallow plates for easy access during rolling.

Step 3: Grind the Hazelnuts

Pop the hazelnuts into a food processor and pulse them until finely ground. This imparts both taste and texture without turning into a paste, so you still get a lovely nutty bite in each truffle.

Step 4: Blend the Dates with Cocoa

Next, drain your softened dates and add them to the food processor with the cocoa powder. Blend thoroughly for about 3 to 4 minutes until silky smooth. If it seems too thick, add a few drops of water cautiously just until it reaches the right consistency—smooth yet firm enough to hold its shape.

Step 5: Mix in Remaining Ingredients

Add the coconut flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and coarse salt to your chocolatey date mixture. Process until everything is evenly combined and forms a cohesive dough that’s slightly sticky but firm enough to roll.

Step 6: Shape and Coat Your Truffles

Remove the dough from the processor and divide it into 15 to 18 equal portions. Roll each into a smooth ball with your hands, then roll them through your chosen coatings to add layers of flavor and texture. This step is where you can get creative—keep it classic with cocoa or coconut, or spice things up with cayenne and salt.

Step 7: Chill Before Serving

Place your completed truffles on the prepared baking sheet and pop them into the refrigerator. A quick chill of several minutes helps the truffles firm up and lets the flavors meld beautifully before you dive in.

How to Serve Chocolate Hazelnut Truffles Recipe

Several round chocolate truffles are arranged closely on a white plate, each with a rough textured coating. Some truffles are covered in dark cocoa powder dusted with small white salt crystals on top, giving a matte finish. Others are rolled in coarse white coconut flakes or pale crushed nuts, creating a mix of white and light tan speckles over a dark chocolate base. The surface underneath the plate is a white marbled texture. The arrangement shows a mix of dark brown, white, and light beige colors from the different coatings, with a close-up focus on the varied textures of the truffles. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a bit of texture or visual flair takes these truffles from simple to spectacular. Try sprinkling a few crushed toasted hazelnuts or a dusting of extra cocoa powder right before serving. Even a delicate drizzle of melted dark chocolate can make them look as luxurious as they taste.

Side Dishes

While these truffles shine brilliantly on their own, they pair wonderfully with a cup of rich espresso or a glass of creamy almond milk. For a decadent dessert spread, complement them with fresh berries or slices of ripe pear to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re gifting these or serving them at a party, presentation is everything. Arrange the truffles in mini cupcake liners, or place them artfully on a wooden platter surrounded by edible flowers or chopped nuts for that wow factor. You could even customize the coatings per guest preferences for a fun interactive experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Chocolate Hazelnut Truffles will keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This keeps them firm and fresh while preserving their flavor. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these treats later or prepare them in advance for a special occasion, freezing is a great option. Place the truffles on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll last up to 2 months and thaw quickly at room temperature.

Reheating

No need for complicated reheating. Simply bring your chilled or frozen truffles to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor and creamy texture. Avoid microwaving as it may soften them too much and alter the texture.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?

Absolutely! Almonds or walnuts can substitute hazelnuts if you prefer or have allergies. Keep in mind the flavor will change slightly, but the texture and richness of the truffles remain just as delightful.

Are these truffles vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, thanks to the use of dates, coconut flour, and no animal products or gluten-containing ingredients. They’re a fantastic option for many dietary preferences.

How sweet are these truffles?

They strike a perfect balance—not overly sweet thanks to the natural sweetness of dates and maple syrup. This lets the rich hazelnut and cocoa flavors shine without being cloying.

Can I make these truffles without a food processor?

A food processor makes the process much easier and quicker, but if you don’t have one, finely chopping the nuts and mashing dates by hand with a fork can work in a pinch. It will take more time and effort to achieve the right consistency, though.

What’s the best way to customize the coatings?

Feel free to mix and match! Ground nuts, shredded coconut, extra cocoa powder, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon or chili powder all work beautifully. The key is to choose coatings that complement the rich chocolate and hazelnut base without overpowering it.

Final Thoughts

Making these Chocolate Hazelnut Truffles Recipe is like inviting a hug in dessert form into your life. They’re easy enough for a weeknight treat but special enough to impress friends and family. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to sweet fix. So go on, give them a whirl—you won’t regret it!