Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and skinned
- 1/2 cup pitted dates
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips, melted
- 1/4 cup hazelnuts, finely chopped
Special equipment needed:
- Food processor
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Spread hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
3. Let the hazelnuts cool for a few minutes, then transfer them to a food processor and pulse until finely ground.
4. Add dates, cocoa powder, maple syrup, salt, and vanilla extract to the food processor and pulse until the mixture comes together and forms a sticky dough.
5. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
7. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, then roll it in the finely chopped hazelnuts.
8. Place the balls back on the baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
- Makes about 20 balls
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 95
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almonds or walnuts can be used instead of hazelnuts.
- Honey or agave nectar can be used instead of maple syrup.
- Milk chocolate or dark chocolate can be used instead of chocolate chips.
Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup shredded coconut to the mixture for a tropical twist.
- Roll the balls in crushed graham crackers instead of hazelnuts for a s'mores-inspired treat.
- Use peanut butter instead of hazelnuts for a chocolate-peanut butter flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to toast the hazelnuts for the best flavor.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together.
- Wet your hands with water before rolling the mixture into balls to prevent sticking.
- Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Storage instructions:
- Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
- These balls are best served cold, but can be left at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the balls on a platter with a dusting of cocoa powder and a few extra hazelnuts for garnish.
Garnishes:
- Cocoa powder
- Crushed hazelnuts
- Shredded coconut
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Hot chocolate
- Red wine
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit
- Cheese plate
- Charcuterie board
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too wet, add more ground hazelnuts.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands before handling the ingredients.
- Store the balls in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
- Hazelnuts have been cultivated for thousands of years and were a popular food in ancient Rome.
- Chocolate was first consumed by the Aztecs and was brought to Europe by Spanish explorers in the 16th century.
Flavor profiles:
- Rich chocolate flavor with a nutty, slightly sweet taste from the hazelnuts and dates.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert or snack.
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