These pistachio chocolate balls are for that person in your life.

The one for whom it is impossible to shop because she already has everything. The one with unattainably high standards. The one you can’t invite over for dinner without first sending the complete menu for approval because she doesn’t eat X, Y, and Z.

No need to name names, you know the one. This easy no-bake dessert is here to please all—the highly discerning and those of us who regularly walk around wearing socks that don’t match (raises hand). Like classic chocolate truffles, these pistachio chocolate balls are unapologetically rich, luxuriously chocolatey, and gloriously decadent. However, unlike chocolate truffles:

They are made entirely from healthy ingredients—a combination of dates, nuts, and chocolate.AND they’re suitable for almost any diet—they’re entirely gluten free, dairy free, vegan, or paleo. (For those who need a nut-free dessert, try Dark Chocolate Red Wine Truffles).

No matter to whom you are serving them, these pistachio truffles will become a favorite treat.

How to Make Pistachio Chocolate Balls

If the concept of a healthy chocolate ball that tastes like a real truffle sounds more like a holiday miracle than reality, please allow me to introduce you to the wondrous combination of dates, nuts, and chocolate that make up these pistachio truffles.

The Ingredients

Dates. When blended with any kind of nut and unsweetened cocoa powder, Medjool dates form a sweet, smooth filling that is a serious dupe for the center of a chocolate truffle. (They’re also my secret to these Ginger Cookie Healthy Energy Balls.)Walnuts. Provide structure, body, and an extra layer of subtle nuttiness. You could also use pecans or almonds instead.Cocoa Powder. Gives the centers of these healthy truffles an intense chocolate flavor that will please any chocolate lover (like these Dark Chocolate Cookies).Pistachios. Offer a bright, festive finish if serving or gifting around the holidays. (This Honey Ricotta Dip with Pistachio and Apricot makes a festive holiday app too.)Vanilla. Enhances the chocolate flavors.Dark Chocolate. My recommendation for coating the nutty chocolate-date centers. You can also use milk chocolate or white chocolate, if preferred.Coconut Oil. Gives the chocolate a beautiful, glossy sheen once set.

The Directions

Storage Tips

To Store. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 weeks or at room temperature for 1 week.To Freeze. Place truffles in an airtight freezer-safe storage container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Set out at room temperature for a few minutes prior to serving.

You see, a universal gift for anyone on your holiday shopping list. Unless, of course, the recipient of your lovely pistachio truffles doesn’t like chocolate, in which case there’s always a sack of coal (or Honey Roasted Cashews if you’re feeling generous).

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