Raw Cinnamon-Almond Truffles
One of my favorite things in the world is when I discover a raw foods recipe that, once devoured, no one would guess that it was raw. That is exactly why I loved these truffles the first time I made them. My clients were popping these in their mouths like truffles were going out of style and they still ask for more, more, more all the time. Believe me, coming from them, that is quite a compliment.
Besides these treats being ridiculously delicious, they are actually ridiculously good for you, too. Admittedly, I’ve even been known to eat a few for breakfast. Each ingredient in these delightful little nuggets of joy has amazing nutritional benefits. The almonds are high in protein and essential oils that are great for your hair and skin. Goji berries are a so called superfood, and if you aren’t already hooked on them, you need to be. They are super high in antioxidants (read: 8 times higher than pomegranates!), vitamin C, and contain all of your essential amino acids. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Goji Berries help to strengthen your heart, liver, lungs, and kidneys and are mood-elevating and *ahem* libido-enhancing. Need I say more? The health benefits of these little fruits go on and on. While some find that the flavor may take some getting used to, the chocolate and dates in this recipe disguise the taste of the Goji making the benefits accessible even to those without a particular affinity for the flavor. In addition to the health benefits of the almonds and Goji, the cinnamon is great for regulating blood sugar levels, and, of course, we all know how fantastic chocolate is for you. Am I right, Ladies?
So, go ahead, enjoy these treats without guilt. Your body will thank you!
RAW CINNAMON-ALMOND TRUFFLES
adapted from a recipe on goneraw.com
makes 18 truffles
1 cup raw almonds, unsoaked
1/2 cup dates, preferably Medjool, pitted
4 Tbs. dutch-processed cocoa powder or raw cacao powder
2 Tbs. Goji berries
4 Tbs. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. vanilla extract or vanilla flavor
1/4 cup water
In a food processor, combine almonds, dates, cocoa powder, Goji berries, and vanilla. The dates and almonds will be very noisy when you begin mixing and will cause the machine to become a bit unsteady. Be sure to hold the machine to stabilize it for the first few seconds it is on. With the processor running, slowly add water a little bit at a time until the “dough” becomes a bit sticky and will hold its shape when rolled into a ball. Once you’ve achieved the desired consistency, turn off the machine. Pour the cinnamon out onto a clean plate. Roll a small amount of “dough” in between your hands to form little balls that are about 1 inch wide. Place the little balls in the cinnamon and roll them around to thoroughly coat. Tap off any excess cinnamon and place on a clean plate or serving tray. Indulge!
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I made these tonight and they were a hit! I ended up substituting cranberries for the goji and they were still good. Thank you so much for sharing the recipe.