We’re taking truffles to a new healthier place by adding pumpkin/pepita seeds, hemp seeds and figs for additional protein and fiber resulting in a delicious, guilt-free treat. Raw cacao is a good source of magnesium. Peppermint oil is healing and soothing to digestion.
MAKES: 36-40 balls
Ingredients:
| 2 cups pitted dates
6 dried figs, stems removed 1/2 cup ground pumpkin/pepita seeds (grind in dedicated coffee bean grinder not used for coffee or a food processor or blender until finely ground.) 1/2 cup hemp 1 pinch sea salt |
1/4 cup unsweetened raw cacao or cocoa
1 tablespoon coconut oil 2 tablespoons hot water 3-4 drops pure peppermint essential oil (or 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract) 1 cup finely shredded unsweetened coconut flakes mixed with 2 tablespoons cacao for rolling balls |
Instructions:
- Place dates, figs, ground pepitas, hemp, salt, cacao, coconut oil, hot water and peppermint oil into a food processor bowl fitted with knife blade.
- Pulse until mixture comes together in a ball and is well combined. May have to add an additional tablespoon of water (add one teaspoon at a time).
- Spread coconut/cacao mixture on a plate (or piece of waxed paper).
- With two teaspoons form small (walnut sized) balls and drop into coconut. Roll between hands into balls. May refrigerate for firmer texture or leave at room temperature and enjoy!
Sueson Vess
Sueson Vess is a professional chef, author/food writer and educator helping people eat healthier, especially those with food intolerances and others with chronic illnesses. She is passionate about nutrition and helping others achieve and maintain a “good for your health” lifestyle. There are always delicious, helpful and healthy solutions! Her focus is on “Foods with Benefits” – learning to increase delicious beneficial foods in your daily life. Sueson makes bone broth at Nature’s Own in North Carolina, and teaches cooking classes at FirstHeath and Duke Cancer Center. She is a regular contributing writer for Sandhills Naturally and Gluten-Free & More publications.
