Raw Chocolate Cherry Pistachio Truffles

Many foods naturally contain melatonin, one of our important sleep hormones. Research has shown that eating melatonin-rich foods can assist sleep and provide antioxidant support for our bodies. These Raw Chocolate Cherry Pistachio Truffles will not make you sleepy, but they will satisfy your sweet tooth. They are made with antioxidant and melatonin-rich tart cherries. 

Other Melatonin rich foods include:

• Fruits and vegetables (tart cherries, corn, asparagus, tomatoes, pomegranate, olives, grapes, broccoli, cucumber)

• Grains (rice, barley, rolled oats)

• Nuts and Seeds (walnuts, peanuts, sunflower seeds, mustard seeds, flaxseed)

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Raw Chocolate Cherry Pistachio Truffles

Raw Chocolate Cherry Truffles

Makes 24 small truffles 
Author: Erica Leazenby, MD
Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pitted Medjoor dates (about 10-11)

• 2/3 cup Tart dried cherries

• ¼ cup raw almonds; toasted

• ¼ cup raw pistachios, toasted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• 1 generous pinch salt

• 2 Tablespoons cocoa powder

• Cocoa powder or finely chopped almonds or pistachios for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Place the nuts on a baking sheet in a single layer using caution to keep them separate. Toast the nuts for 6-8 minutes or until they are lightly browned and starting to become fragrant. Note: The two nuts may be ready at different times depending on their size. 

2. Place dates, nuts, cherries, cocoa powder, vanilla and salt in a food processor. Run the machine continuously until the mixture forms a ball (approximately 1-2 minutes.)

3. With damp hands roll the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls.

4. If desired roll each truffle in cocoa powder or chopped nuts.

5. Store in the refrigerator in an air tight container and enjoy.

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