COCOA DATE TRUFFLES!!

These can be prepared a number of different ways. Pick one flavoring, then roll them in the coatings of your choice.

ingredients

• 3 tablespoons raw cacao powder
• 1 1/2 cups Medjool dates, pitted
• 3 tablespoons (or more) unsweetened shredded coconut or quick-cooking oats
• Pinch of sea salt

Flavoring options: (choose one)

• 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder

Coating options: (mix and match)

• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup lightly toasted sesame seeds
• 1/2 cup crushed lightly toasted pistachios
• 1/2 cup crushed lightly toasted hazelnuts

• Ingredient info:Raw cacao powder and unsweetened shredded coconut can be found at natural foods stores, specialty foods stores, and some supermarkets.

preparation

Purée cacao powder, dates, 3 tablespoons coconut, and salt in a food processor until almost smooth, adding water by teaspoonfuls if too dry and crumbly and coconut by teaspoonfuls if too wet and sticky. Add desired flavoring and pulse to combine.

Scoop date purée by the tablespoonful and roll into 1" balls. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 week ahead. Cover and chill.

Roll truffles in desired coatings to cover.