Looking for a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without compromising your health goals? Say hello to these delectable Raw Cherry Chocolate Hazelnut Balls! Bursting with the rich flavors of cherries and cocoa, these bite-sized delights are not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these irresistible snacks that are perfect for any time of the day. Ready to indulge in a healthy dessert that will leave you craving more? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted cherries
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Place hazelnuts in a food processor and pulse until they are finely chopped with a slightly rough texture.
- Add pitted cherries to the food processor with the chopped hazelnuts and pulse until the cherries are well incorporated and broken down.
- Add cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the food processor. Blend all ingredients until they form a sticky, cohesive mixture that can hold together when pressed.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup. If too wet, sprinkle in a bit more cocoa powder.
- Using clean hands, roll the mixture into small balls approximately 1-inch in diameter. The mixture should make about 10 balls.
- Optional: Roll the balls in additional cocoa powder or finely chopped hazelnuts for extra texture and coating.
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Store the cherry chocolate hazelnut balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Cherries: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, ripe cherries. If cherries are out of season, frozen pitted cherries can work just as well—just make sure to thaw and drain them before use.
- Pulse, Don’t Blend: When processing the hazelnuts, pulse them instead of blending continuously. This will help achieve a slightly rough texture, adding a delightful crunch to your balls.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste and the sweetness of your cherries, feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup. Start with the recommended amount and add more if you prefer a sweeter treat.
- Chill for Best Results: Allow the balls to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps them firm up, making them easier to handle and enhancing their flavor.
- Get Creative with Coatings: For an extra touch, roll your balls in cocoa powder, finely chopped hazelnuts, or even shredded coconut before chilling. This adds texture and visual appeal.
- Storage Tips: Keep your cherry chocolate hazelnut balls in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. They can last up to 5 days, making them a convenient snack option throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 85kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
