Saint Valentine’s Day falls on February 14th, which marks the celebration of love and affection. There’s often an abundance of flowers, sweets, and chocolate. However, it doesn’t necessarily have to be Valentine’s to add some good quality chocolate to your day.

Raw cacao powder is made from cacao beans that are milled down at low temperatures to preserve nutrients and flavour. Cacao actually contains the love compound phenylethylamine (PEA). It’s no wonder it often accompanies this romantic occasion! PEA is the same chemical the body naturally produces when you’re absolutely smitten by someone.

Cacao is rich in antioxidants and minerals such as copper, iron, zinc, calcium, and potassium too. This superfood also contains an abundance of magnesium, which relaxes nerves and muscles, improves cognitive function, and aids in mood regulation. However, cacao can be extremely stimulating depending on your sensitivity so be cautious consuming too close to bedtime!

Raw Cacao Truffles Ingredients:

1 cup of dates, pitted & soaked overnight

1/2 cup almond butter

1/3 cup brown rice syrup or raw honey

1/2 cup coconut oil, melted

1/3 cup cacao powder

1 tablespoon coconut butter

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/3 cup hemp seeds (or cacao, coconut, or chopped nuts) for rolling

Directions:

Drain dates. Combine all ingredients except hemp seeds in a food processor. Blend until smooth consistency. Refrigerate mixture for at least 4 hours. Form into balls with your hands and roll with hemp seeds. Refrigerate and serve cold.

Makes 25

Recipe originally published on www.lulora.com