Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and what better way to say “I love you” than with homemade chocolate truffles?! Made with just 3 simple ingredients, these Dark Chocolate Avocado Truffles come together in no time and taste just as rich and decadent as store-bought chocolates! Naturally gluten-free, with dairy-free, vegan, and high protein options included.
Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day.. can you even believe it?! I feel like I was just posting about Thanksgiving (but then again, that’s probably because I was..). Oops.
Anyways, if you’re one of the millions of Americans scrambling for a last minute gift for your loved one, then step back and take a deep breath because I GOT YOU.
These 3-Ingredient Dark Chocolate Avocado Truffles are embarrassingly easy to make, but are guaranteed to be a hit with your valentine this year! I promise you, he/she will be so busy shoveling these homemade treats into their mouth that they won’t even realize that you forgot to buy them a card (or that you purposely avoided buying them a card.. because let’s be real, have you taken a look at card prices lately?!)
Unlike most traditional chocolate truffles, these homemade dark chocolate avocado truffles get their creamy, rich texture from avocados, rather than heavy cream. While this combination may sound weird, I promise you that it totally works! As long as the ingredients are fully blended together, no one will ever guess that there is avocado hiding in their dessert.
And while it may not seem like much, this one simple swap turns an otherwise decadent chocolate treat into a decadent heart-healthy treat (which is quite fitting, given that February is both American Heart Month and National Chocolate Lover’s Month!)
Avocados and dark chocolate are two foods that are well-recognized for their cardiovascular benefits. In fact, research suggests that including these foods in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet may actually help to reduce the risk for heart disease.
Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (specifically oleic acid), which helps to reduce inflammation throughout the body and may protect against red blood cell damage that could otherwise lead to heart attacks and strokes. Not to mention, a 100-gram serving of avocado (about half a medium avocado) contains more potassium than a banana. High potassium intake is linked to decreased blood pressure, which may lower your risk for heart attacks and strokes.
Meanwhile, dark chocolate contains powerful plant chemicals (called flavonoids) which are known to help lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel circulation. Plus, dark chocolate is a good source of antioxidants and magnesium – both of which are beneficial to both overall and cardiovascular health. Oh and did I mention that it tastes AMAZING?! (Then again, you probably already knew that..)
If you’re looking for a healthier way to satisfy your sweet tooth, then these easy 3-Ingredient Dark Chocolate Avocado Truffles are for you! Whip up a batch in minutes or pin the recipe for the next time a chocolate craving hits. I promise you won’t be disappointed!
While you’re at it, be sure to check out a few of my other favorite heart-healthy recipes, like this Herbed Goat Cheese and Pistachio Crusted Salmon or these Lemon Dill Salmon Burgers with Yogurt Dill Sauce! And as always, let me know if you give this recipe a try by tagging @rootstorisenutrition on social media.. I absolutely love seeing what you guys are making!
3-Ingredient Dark Chocolate Truffles
Ingredients
Dark Chocolate Avocado Truffles
- ¾ cup dark chocolate chips
- ½ cup avocado, mashed (about 1 medium or 2 small)
- sea salt
Toppings (optional)
- cocoa powder, chopped nuts, sprinkles, shredded coconut, hemp seeds, etc.
Instructions
- Place chocolate chips in a small microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 30 seconds. Remove from microwave, stir, and repeat until chocolate is completely melted (about 90 seconds total).
- Add avocado, melted chocolate, and a sprinkle of sea salt to a small food processor. Pulse until fully combined, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Mixture should be smooth and avocado should no longer be visible.
- Transfer the batter to the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Once firm, remove from fridge and roll mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Roll each ball in desired toppings and store in fridge until ready to eat. Truffles are best if eaten within 24 hours, but will keep in the fridge for about 4 days.
Notes
- No food processor? No problem! You can make these truffles using a high speed blender or handheld mixer or you can even mix them by hand. Simply add the avocado to a medium bowl and mash until completely smooth and lump-free. Add melted chocolate and sea salt and stir until avocado is no longer visible. Just be sure to mash/stir all of the ingredients VERY well for a smooth, creamy truffle!
- Want to add some staying power? Try blending in 1/2 cup cooked black beans (rinsed and very well drained) and/or 2-4 tablespoons of nut butter and/or 2 tablespoons of your favorite chocolate protein powder for an extra protein punch.
- Conscious of your dairy intake? Be sure to choose dairy-free chocolate chips for a dairy-free and vegan option.
