Dark Chocolate Truffles

These Chocolate Truffles are a crowd-pleasing treat and make excellent gifts (especially for those who don’t believe eating healthy can be delicious and satisfy your sweet tooth every once in a while). This version is vegan, gluten-free and has the benefits of coconut oil (including medium-chain triglycerides and lauric acid). 

Serves: 24 truffles

Total time: 2 1/2 hours

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces unsweetened dark chocolate, chopped
• ¼ cup Nutiva Virgin Coconut Oil
• ¾ cup coconut milk (full fat) or coconut cream
• 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• Stevia, honey or maple syrup to taste

For the coating:

• ½ cup cocoa powder OR coconut flakes OR slivered almonds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Using a double boiler, melt the chocolate and coconut oil together, stirring continuously. Add the coconut milk and whisk until smooth.
2. Remove from heat, then add the vanilla, salt, and a little bit of the recommended sweetener.
3. Chill mixture for 2 hours or until set.
4. Using a tablespoon, scoop a spoonful of the mixture, roll into a ball and then roll in coating of your choice.
5. Return finished truffles to the refrigerator and chill truffles for at least 10 minutes, then serve.
6. Store in a cool place.

- Healthy Holistic Living