It's Valentines weekend…we all know what that means: Chocolate galore! And while we should partake in treating ourselves in moderation, we can tend to get carried away. I mean who really eats only ONE chocolate out of the ten pound assorted box? We should most definitely indulge in these items appropriately, but when you get the notion to have "just one more" it helps to have a "healthy alternative" to turn to, satisfying that nagging sweet tooth that turns one or two into the whole dang box!

So, here is a spin on a classic Valentines cliché treat: chocolate truffles.

Nutrition Facts Face-Off!

This Recipe Rescue has slightly more ingredients and yields approximately the same number and size of servings. Dried fruit as the main ingredient in a chocolate dish makes for a surprising product most wouldn't think of as "dessert." The nutritional differences are mainly due to using only plant based ingredients, as we see a reduction in fat and cholesterol (which mainly come from animal products.) What a fabulous way to satisfy your chocolate cravings!

Directions:

1. Slowly add prunes and dates to a food processor until smooth paste forms.
2. Add the maple syrup and cocoa powder. Mix and process until well combined.
3. With your hands form 12 one inch balls. If the paste gets too sticky, wet your fingers to help.
4. Place them in the refrigerator or freezer for a couple hours for optimal texture. The freezer makes it more "truffle like."

*get extra creative and roll truffles in tasty additions like coconut, sprinkles or chopped nuts.

I rolled mine in cocoa powder (pictured.)