Richly decadent yet secretly wholesome, Date Chocolate Fudge Truffles with Sea Salt are the treat that bridges blissful indulgence and nourishing comfort. Every glossy bite delivers velvety chocolate, a deep caramel-like date sweetness, and just the right sparkle of sea salt on top. Prepare yourself—you won’t believe how fast these disappear!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Texture: These truffles are fudgy and decadent on the inside, with a crisp chocolate shell and a playful sprinkle of sea salt on top.
- Naturally Sweetened: The dates add a deep caramel flavor and natural sweetness, making these an irresistible treat you’ll feel good about.
- Surprisingly Simple: Everything comes together in minutes in the food processor—no baking required—so homemade truffles are always in easy reach.
- Customizable for All: Whether you love dark chocolate or crave add-ins like orange or cinnamon, these truffles are endlessly adaptable for every chocolate lover.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s almost magical—just a handful of pantry ingredients transforms into elegant Date Chocolate Fudge Truffles with Sea Salt! Each ingredient plays its part in creating rich flavor and luxurious texture, and you don’t need anything fancy to make these surprising little bites shine.
- Dates: Preferably Medjool for extra softness and natural caramel flavor; these are the heart of the fudge and bind everything together.
- Walnuts or Pecans: For a buttery richness and velvety mouthfeel—plus, they boost the “fudge” factor.
- Shredded Unsweetened Coconut: Gives the truffles subtle chew and a hint of tropical aroma without making them taste overtly coconutty.
- Semi-Sweet or Bittersweet Chocolate Chips: These intensify the chocolate flavor and melt seamlessly into the mix.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Lends deep, rich chocolate notes and helps with that classic truffle consistency.
- Sea Salt: A little goes into the mix for depth, and a sprinkle on top brings every flavor forward.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Smooths the edges of the chocolate profile and highlights the natural sweetness of the dates.
- Melted Bittersweet Chocolate: For dipping—a shiny coating that cracks beautifully and keeps the truffles extra luxurious.
- Coarse Sea Salt (for topping): Just a pinch transforms these into the ultimate sweet-and-salty treat.
Variations
The beauty of Date Chocolate Fudge Truffles with Sea Salt is how easy they are to personalize. Whether you’re looking to use what you have on hand, adjusting for dietary needs, or just want to get adventurous, the possibilities are inspiring and delicious!
- Nuts Galore: Swap walnuts for pecans, hazelnuts, or even almonds—the texture will shift, and each nut brings its own twist.
- Add Some Zest: Stir in a touch of orange or lemon zest to the filling for a bright, citrusy burst.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cinnamon, instant espresso, or even a tiny pinch of cayenne to amplify the chocolate depth.
- Go Vegan or Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and check that your chocolate coating is vegan for plant-based perfection.
- Essential Oil Flavors: Add a few drops of food-grade essential oils—think orange, peppermint, or cinnamon—for a gourmet truffle experience at home.
How to Make Date Chocolate Fudge Truffles with Sea Salt
Step 1: Blend the Base
Add your pitted dates, walnuts or pecans, shredded coconut, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and a pinch of sea salt to your food processor. Pulse several times until the mixture starts to break down, stopping to scrape down any cocoa that sticks to the sides—this ensures even blending and avoids any dry spots.
Step 2: Add Vanilla and Process
Sprinkle vanilla extract right over the crumbled mixture. Now, process on high for 2–3 minutes, pausing if needed to scrape down the bowl. You’re looking for a rich, sticky dough that will easily press together in your hands—if it holds together, you’re ready!
Step 3: Roll Into Truffles
Using a melon baller or a tablespoon, scoop out even portions of dough. Roll or press each into 1-inch balls, and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet with a little space between each for easy chocolate dipping later.
Step 4: Freeze Until Firm
Slide the pan of truffles into the freezer for about one hour. This step is crucial: chilled truffles hold their shape perfectly when dipped, so don’t rush it!
Step 5: Dip and Decorate
Once truffles are firm, melt your chocolate in a double boiler. Take each truffle and gently roll it in the chocolate with a spoon, letting any excess drip off, then return it to the pan. Quickly sprinkle coarse sea salt on top of each before the chocolate sets for that signature salty sparkle.
Step 6: Chill and Enjoy!
Pop the pan into the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes until the chocolate hardens. Once set, transfer your Date Chocolate Fudge Truffles with Sea Salt into an airtight container and find the willpower not to eat the entire batch at once!
Pro Tips for Making Date Chocolate Fudge Truffles with Sea Salt
- Use Super-Fresh Dates: Medjool dates yield the creamiest texture; if your dates seem firm or dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes and pat dry before using.
- Chill Before Dipping: Freezing the truffles makes them sturdy for chocolate coating, preventing melting or crumbling when they hit the warm chocolate.
- Thin Chocolate Coating: To keep the chocolate shell crisp but not overwhelming, let excess chocolate drip off your spoon before placing truffles on the tray.
- Sprinkle Salt While Wet: For the perfect sea salt sparkle, sprinkle while the chocolate is still glossy; it’ll stick flawlessly and elevate every bite.
How to Serve Date Chocolate Fudge Truffles with Sea Salt
Garnishes
You don’t need to do much—just that little sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top is pure magic! For extra flair, try a tiny pinch of edible gold dust, cacao nibs, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate zig-zagged across the tops for contrast. They look every bit as luxurious as they taste.
Side Dishes
When serving Date Chocolate Fudge Truffles with Sea Salt, accompany them with a simple espresso, strong black coffee, or a glass of red wine for grown-up decadence. If you’re feeling playful, a platter of fresh berries or a fluffy coconut whipped cream dip makes a lovely, fresh complement.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, line up your truffles in petite paper candy cups on a serving platter, or stack them in a glass jar tied with a ribbon for a generous edible gift. For holiday flair, mix in cocoa-dusted and coconut-dusted truffles alongside the chocolate-dipped ones for a trio of tempting textures and colors. They’re the homemade truffles that truly look bakery-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh and fudgy for up to one week. Just bring them to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best gooey center and smooth chocolate shell.
Freezing
If you want to get ahead, freeze Date Chocolate Fudge Truffles with Sea Salt on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag or freezer container. They’ll keep perfectly for up to two months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight—or enjoy slightly chilled; they’re divine either way!
Reheating
These truffles don’t need reheating, but if you love a super-gooey texture, rest them at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. If you’ve stored them in the freezer, a half hour in the fridge is all you need before they’re ready to serve.
FAQs
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Can I make Date Chocolate Fudge Truffles with Sea Salt without a food processor?
The food processor is key for getting that smooth, fudge-like texture, but if you don’t have one, you can fine-chop all ingredients and use a strong fork or potato masher. The mixture may be chunkier, but still delicious!
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Do I have to use Medjool dates, or are other dates okay?
Medjool dates are preferred for their softness and caramel flavor, but you can use Deglet Noor or another type. If your dates feel firm or dry, soak them briefly in warm water before processing to ensure smooth blending.
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Can I skip the chocolate dipping step?
Absolutely! The filling is so fudgy and satisfying that you can simply roll the truffles in cocoa powder, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts. The chocolate shell just adds extra polish and snaps with every bite.
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How long do Date Chocolate Fudge Truffles with Sea Salt last?
Stored in the fridge, these truffles will keep for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to two months and thaw when ready to enjoy—perfect for planning ahead for parties or gifts!
Final Thoughts
If you love recipes that feel both impossibly decadent and nourishing, Date Chocolate Fudge Truffles with Sea Salt will have you swooning. Don’t be surprised if they vanish before your eyes—friends, family, and that late-night chocolate craving will all say thank you. Give them a try and let chocolate bliss steal the show!
PrintDate Chocolate Fudge Truffles with Sea Salt Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins
- Yield: 18–22 truffles 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing, Freezing, Dipping
- Cuisine: Global
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these rich and decadent Date Chocolate Fudge Truffles with a hint of sea salt for a perfect balance of flavors. These bite-size treats are a delightful combination of sweet and savory, making them a great option for any chocolate lover.
Ingredients
Dates Chocolate Fudge Truffles:
- 3/4 cup pitted dates (8-10 dates, packed)
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans
- 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips
- 2 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For Dipping:
- 1 cup bittersweet chocolate, melted
- Coarse sea salt for finishing
Instructions
- Prepare Truffle Mix: In a food processor, combine dates, walnuts, coconut, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and sea salt. Process until well incorporated. Add vanilla extract and blend until a consistent texture forms.
- Shape Truffles: Roll small amounts of the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a lined pan. Freeze for 1 hour.
- Cover in Chocolate: Dip frozen truffles in melted chocolate, sprinkle with sea salt, and refrigerate until set.
Notes
- The recipe yields approximately 18-22 bite-size truffles.
- Medjool dates are recommended for their sweetness and soft texture.
- A food processor and melon baller are essential tools for this recipe.
- Experiment with different chocolate chip varieties for varying flavors.
- Enhance with essential oils like orange, mint, or cinnamon for added depth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 truffle
- Calories: Approx. 110
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg