These Chocolate Hazelnut Balls are my healthier version of a Ferrero Rocher! These treats are chocolatey, nutty, and easy to make. With less than 30 minutes of prep time and just 6 ingredients, you can enjoy these delicious bites for dessert or snack any time of the week! They also happen to be packed with healthy fats and protein, as well as being dairy-free, vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar free!
It is definitely no secret that a Ferrero Rocher chocolate is super delicious. You just cannot deny that chocolate paired with hazelnuts is one of the best flavour combination. However, little did you know that one serving, or 3 chocolates, contains 36.9 grams of sugar! They may be super tasty but just not a treat you would want to enjoy on a regular basis.
For that reason, I decided to try and make my own homemade version that would be lower in fat, calories and most importantly, sugar. Inspired by all of the natural ingredients in a Ferrero Rocher, I came up with a recipe that needed only six wholesome ingredients. They are loaded with a rich chocolate and nutty flavour, a fun crunchy center and just the perfect amount of natural sweetness. I'll be honest though, they don't taste exactly like the real deal but they are not too far off it, especially when made with the simplest and healthiest ingredients! They are perfect for anytime of the year and I promise you they will be a popular treat!
1/2 cup hazelnuts
1/4 cup almonds (or 2 tbsp almond butter)
8 large medjool dates, pitted
2 tbsp cacao powder
Pinch of salt
Extra hazelnuts for the centre (exclude from food processor)
METHOD:
1. In a food processor, pulse the hazelnuts and almonds until broken down into a mealy texture. Remember not to blend all the way, otherwise the mixture will start to turn into a butter.
2. Add to the mixture the dates, cacao powder, hemp seeds and a pinch of salt. Process until a dough-like texture begins to form.
3. Once combined, you can start to add in water to help everything stick together. I found that 2 tablespoons of water worked perfectly, but you can continue to add more if that’s not enough to make things stick.
4. Take 1-2 tablespoons of mixture and press one hazelnut into the center. Roll into a ball and pack tightly to form your bliss ball. Repeat until all of the mixture has been rolled.
5. Place the finished energy bites onto a plate and transfer to the fridge for an hour (or freezer for 30 minutes) to let them set and harden. Enjoy immediately, or transfer to an airtight container for storage!
Store your finished bliss balls in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for about 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
If storing in the freezer, be sure to let them thaw for a few minutes before eating (to allow them to soften).
Let me know if you make this recipe! Leave a comment and don’t forget to tag @moniquenikki on Instagram and hashtag it #eatwithmoniquenikki so I can see all the deliciousness!
With love,
MN x
Post a Comment