The orange and chocolate no-bake treats are delicious little bites that are prepared in a few minutes, without an oven and without added sugars. An extremely easy recipe, perfect to offer with coffee, as a light dessert, or to package in small gift bags during the holidays.
Their flavor resembles classic truffles, but with a 100% natural base: only dates, almonds, cocoa, and orange juice.
The result is a soft, fragrant treat with a full chocolate flavor, balanced by the citrus freshness of the orange. No cooking or special equipment needed: just a food processor and a few minutes of work.
Additionally, they are without added sugars, butter-free, and naturally gluten-free if you use certified ingredients.
You can easily customize them: with hazelnuts instead of almonds for a gianduia effect, or with shredded coconut in the dough for a more exotic note. If you roll them in unsweetened cocoa, they will have an intense flavor, while with a coating of coconut, almond crumbs, or dark chocolate, they will become small pastry pralines.
They keep in the refrigerator for several days and improve in flavor over time, becoming even more harmonious. They are also perfect as a post-workout snack or as a homemade gift idea, and you can present them neutrally or festively by simply changing the baking cups or decorations.
A genuine, simple, and impressive recipe, to note among the time-saving treats that everyone always likes.
READ THE F.A.Q. AND TIPS WITH VARIANTS BELOW THE RECIPE
OTHER INTERESTING RECIPES:
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Medium
- Rest time: 1 Hour
- Preparation time: 5 Minutes
- Portions: 10 Pieces
- Cooking methods: No Bake
- Cuisine: Creative
- Seasonality: All Seasons, Christmas
Ingredients
- 4.6 oz organic pitted dates
- 0.88 oz almonds
- 0.88 oz whole peeled hazelnuts
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (choose gluten-free if certification is needed)
- 0.7 fl oz orange juice (100% natural and without added sugars)
- ground cinnamon (optional)
- unsweetened cocoa powder
- hazelnut crumbs (or almond crumbs)
Tools
- Chopper
Steps
Pour the nuts into the blender cup.
Add the dates and chop (if your dates are too dry, soak them for 10 minutes in hot water, then drain and proceed).
Pour the orange juice and pulse the chopper a few times. Refrigerate for about an hour.
Shape the balls with slightly damp hands and then roll part of them in cocoa.
Roll the remaining balls in the chosen crumbs (of hazelnuts or almonds or a mix of both).
Place the orange and chocolate no-bake treats on a tray and serve them. They keep in the fridge (read the F.A.Q. below).
Tips and Variations:
Christmas version: add a dash of cinnamon or gingerbread spices, then roll the treats in a mix of cocoa and powdered sugar for a “snowy” effect.
Coconut variant: replace half of the almonds with shredded coconut and add a splash of plant-based milk.
Gourmet touch: incorporate a pinch of fine salt or a dash of pink pepper to enhance the aroma of orange and chocolate.
Gift idea: place the treats in baking cups, close them in a transparent box, and add a piece of candied orange peel for decoration.
Dried fruits: decide whether to use the mix of almonds and hazelnuts or 1.76 oz of just almonds or just hazelnuts.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
How to store the orange and chocolate no-bake treats?
They keep in the refrigerator for up to 5-6 days, sealed in an airtight container. You can also freeze them: just let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Can I replace the dates?
Yes, you can use dried figs or dried apricots, soaking them for a few minutes in warm water. Keep in mind that the flavor and natural sweetness will slightly change.
What type of almonds is best to use?
You can choose blanched almonds for a more delicate flavor or almonds with skin if you prefer a rustic note. Alternatively, cashews are also fine.
Are they suitable for a gluten-free or vegan diet?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, but always check that the ingredients (especially packaged cocoa and dates) are labeled as “gluten-free”.
Can I make them more chocolaty?
You can add small dark chocolate chips or dip the treats halfway in melted chocolate and let them dry on parchment paper: they become like small artisanal pralines.
