Raw Cacao Nib Mexican Truffles

 We've all heard it before. Dark Chocolate is actually good for you! Wahoo! Break out the candy!

Not. So. Fast.


   Before you reach for that commercial candy bar, think twice. Because that candy bar you are about to devour is loaded with processed sugar, preservatives, artificial coloring, soy by products, and drumroll please....little to none of that "beneficial dark chocolate". Just because the candy bar itself is dark, does not make it dark chocolate. That candy bar is doing more harm than good. Even if it is "fun-sized". Because the reality is that there is barely any actual "chocolate" in it. Any benefit you could possibly receive from chocolate is masked by additives and stripped of its nutritional content when milk and processed sugar is added.

   To really reap the benefits of dark chocolate, you should be reaching for Cacao in either powder or nib form. Cacao in its raw form is loaded with anti-oxidants, flavonoids, fiber, magnesium, and iron which help to boost your immune system and may help to fight certain diseases.

   These truffles are the perfect way to curb your chocolate craving and reap the benefits of cacao all at the same time. By using dried Turkish apricots that are free of preservatives, these truffles balance the crunchy bitter flavor of cacao nibs with the natural sugars in the fruit. I also combined them with organic shredded coconut and ground cayenne pepper for an extra immunity boosting kick!

   Just make sure to eat these on an empty stomach as it contains fruit which is best digested before a heavy meal full of proteins or starches.

Additionally, I made these again a few days later with a slight variation. I used ground cinnamon instead of cayenne and rolled them in cocoa powder before I froze them. Both recipes are equally delicious.

Recipe:

6 oz organic dried Turkish Apricots (sulfite free)
1/2 cup raw organic unsweetened cacao nibs (I used Navitas Naturals)
1 tsp unrefined organic coconut oil
3 Tbsp filtered water
1/4 cup organic shredded coconut flakes
1/8 tsp ground cayenne pepper

Directions:

 Note: When choosing dried apricots, they should appear bright and feel plump to the touch if you squeeze the bag. If necessary, soak apricots in hot water for 5 minutes to soften.

In a food processor, combine above ingredients until it begins to form a chunky paste. Add additional water if necessary so that you are able to roll into small balls without it being too crumbly. Place in freezer for an hour before serving. Truffles should also be stored in freezer in a BPA free container. For a pretty serving option, lightly sprinkle unsweetened cocoa powder on top.