These little divine bites are my “go to” recipe. They are perfect size for dessert, or an afternoon energy boost. They are sweetened with dates and contain the benefits of raw cacao. High quality chocolate, in its pure, natural state, is actually good for you! Let’s celebrate. Cacao is one of the worlds most antioxidant-rich superfoods, is high in magnesium (an important mineral for calcium absorption, especially for women) and offers a variety of benefits for cardio vascular health.  Cacao is also rich in tryptophan and has the ability to open the heart and spirit, therefore acting as a mood elevator. If you had to, you could replace the raw cacao with cocoa (the roasted version of the bean).

1 cup raw cacao

2  cup unsweetened shredded coconut

20 pitted dates

1/3 cup water

1/3 unrefined, extra virgin coconut oil1/4 chopped almonds, walnuts or nuts of choice

Dash of vanilla

Pinch of cinnamon

Pinch of sea salt

For rolling truffles

Shredded coconut, hemp hearts or chia seeds

Topping

Almonds, goji berries

Method

Soak dates in 1 cup of warm water for at least 10 minutes. 

While dates are soaking, in the food processor mix 1 cup of coconut with coconut oil.  Add cacao, water, nuts, vanilla, cinnamon and salt. Drain water from dates (save water) and add dates into the food processors. If the mixture is too dry, add some of the date water.

Mix until well combined. Mould into balls and roll in either shredded coconut, hemp hearts, or chia seeds. Top with almond or goji berry.

Place in fridge to set for 30 minutes before serving.

Makes 12-15 balls