These cocoa mint truffles taste like the holidays — minty and chocolatey. They’re different than your typical truffle — a bit more firm, but they are a tasty holiday treat, and great to bring to a party.
In fact, I brought these specifically to take to my friend over the weekend for a get together she hosted. They were a hit and I also decided that they will be my next seasonal flavor at Cultured Caveman, along with my staple, salted almond bites (find my recipe for these HERE).
If you don’t have coconut butter on hand, I imagine melted coconut oil will work too.
Cheers and enjoy!
Cocoa Mint Holiday Truffles
Ingredients:
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa or cacao powder
- 1 cup blanched slivered almonds (find HERE)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup softened coconut butter (I used this kind)
- 1 cup medjool dates, pits removed (about 10-12 large dates)
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 3/4 tsp peppermint extract (I like this brand) OR 2 drops high-quality peppermint essential oil (where to get good-quality essential oils)
Directions:
- In the food processor, combine the almonds, cocoa powder, coconut and sea salt. Pulse until well combined.
- Next add the pitted dates, coconut butter and peppermint extract or peppermint essential oil. Blend until well combined. You may need to add half the dates, pulse, and then add the remaining. If needed, add more dates and coconut butter for added stickiness or sweetness.
- Once everything is mixed together well and there are no large chunks, dump the mixture into a large bowl. (Note: mixture may seem crumbly, but will stick together once you pack it. If it’s still too crumbly, try more dates and/or coconut butter as I mentioned above.).
- Roll into 1-inch balls (tablespoon-size) and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. Alternatively, you can pack the mixture down into an 8×8 pan and cut into squares. These will keep for a 2-3 weeks in the fridge. You can freeze them as well.
Total time: 20 minutes + time for truffles to chill
Yields: ~24 pieces
These were soooooo good!!! Thank you for leaving us with leftovers! And you are totally right about only needing one. It hits that chocolate sweet craving just right, but I don’t feel like pigging out on them cause they are pretty rich. 😉 Thank you for posting the recipe!!
Absolutely, Laura! I’m so glad you enjoyed them 🙂 I look forward to seeing you again soon!
The only thing peppermint I eat is randomly gum and tea! These look really good though! I’m planning on getting my parents to stock up on dates and try some of your recipes that use them over the holidays!
I’m kind of obsessed with using peppermint extract right now, especially now that we’re in the holiday season. I love peppermint (and spearmint) tea too, but don’t chew gum — haven’t chewed gum in three years or something like that. I hope you get a chance to try some of my recipes 🙂
I love the addition of the peppermint extract, makes it nice and festive! Have you seen my Smooth Paleo Chocolate at http://thewholefoodtruth.wordpress.com/2012/12/01/smooth-paleo-chocolate/ I know its been popular with my other Paleo friends! have a great pre-christmas wind up
Elissa
Thanks, I think so too! And yes, I did see that post … I “liked” it the day you posted it 😉
Why do I always forget about the awesomeness of dates?! They’re so versatile and fabulous. These sound amazing, anything with peppermint (great for digestion) is a win! Can’t wait to make them!
I love using dates in treat-making! They are definitely versatile and even delicious on their own. I hope you enjoy making and eating these 😉
YUM
I love these!! I am going to make some without the dates (eek). I’ll let you know how it goes lol.
Thanks! I’m not sure how well it will work because the dates make them stick together, but it may be possible if you add a bunch more coconut butter. Have fun experimenting and keep me posted!
Could you use a tablespoon or so of honey or maple syrup instead of the dates to make it sticky?
I’m not sure how well it will work, but you could give it a go. I’m sure it’ll work, but may take some experimentation. Are you unable to eat dates?
These look great! I love coming up with different truffle flavors to make with dates and nuts. Gotta give this one a try!