Ingredients
Truffle Base
- ¾ cup (100g) hazelnuts, toasted
- 3.5 oz (100g) dark or semi-sweet vegan chocolate bar or chips
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt
Instructions
- Toast the Hazelnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts evenly on a baking sheet and toast them for about 10 minutes until golden and fragrant. Once toasted, allow them to cool slightly and rub them in a clean towel to remove most of the skins.
- Melt the Chocolate: Break the chocolate into small pieces and melt it gently using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to prevent burning, until smooth.
- Prepare the Truffle Mixture: In a food processor, combine the toasted hazelnuts, melted chocolate, maple syrup, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Process until the mixture is smooth and comes together as a thick dough-like consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides occasionally to ensure even blending.
- Chill the Mixture: Transfer the truffle mixture to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up, which will make shaping easier.
- Form the Truffles: Using a teaspoon or melon baller, scoop out small portions of the chilled mixture and roll them quickly between your palms to form smooth balls. Place the formed truffles on a parchment-lined tray.
- Coat the Truffles: For an extra touch, roll the truffles in cocoa powder, finely chopped nuts, or shredded coconut as desired.
- Final Chill: Refrigerate the truffles again for 30 minutes to set completely before serving. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Maple syrup can be substituted with agave nectar for a different flavor profile.
- Use honey instead of maple syrup if not strictly vegan.
- To toast hazelnuts without an oven, dry roast in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- If you prefer, freeze the mixture briefly to make rolling easier.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
