These 3-ingredient, homemade Vegan Chocolate Truffles are incredibly simple to make and taste fantastic. They’re naturally gluten-free, dairy-free and refined sugar-free. The method even shows you how to make a chocolatey ganache-like mixture from scratch.

Recipe Difficulty – Very Easy
Table of Contents
- Why this recipe works
- Ingredients
- Substitutions
- Variations
- How to make the truffles
- Storage
- Recipe FAQs
- Recipe Card
Why this recipe works
The holidays are the perfect time for small, indulgent treats. This recipe simplifies the classic chocolate truffle: just coconut oil, cacao powder, maple syrup and a pinch of salt. It’s ideal when you want a gluten-free and dairy-free option without compromising on flavour. The result is a rich, dark truffle that’s quick to make and impressive to serve.
These truffles are more indulgent than everyday snacks, which makes them perfect for festive gatherings or gifting. They’re also versatile — use different coatings and toppings to create a selection of flavours and textures.
Ingredients to make Vegan Chocolate Truffles

- Coconut oil – gives the truffles a smooth texture and subtle flavour.
- Cacao powder – provides deep, intense chocolate flavour. Cocoa powder can be used as an alternative.
- Maple syrup – a natural liquid sweetener that blends well with the cacao.
- Salt – just a pinch to balance the sweetness and deepen the chocolate notes.
See the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Substitutions
- Cacao powder: Swap for cocoa powder if needed; it may be slightly sweeter.
- Maple syrup: Agave syrup works well as a vegan substitute. Honey is an option for non-vegan cooks.
Variations
- Deluxe: Roll your truffles in crushed pistachios, cacao nibs, or raw cacao powder. A drizzle of raw vegan white chocolate adds contrast.
- Kid friendly: Let children help roll and choose toppings — a fun activity and a tasty result.
How to make Vegan Chocolate Truffles

Step 1: Gently heat the coconut oil, maple syrup and pinch of salt in a bain-marie (water bath) until the oil melts. Stir to combine.

Step 2: Add the cacao powder one tablespoon at a time, whisking after each addition until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe bowl or dish. Freeze for 45–60 minutes, until the mixture is firm enough to scoop.

Step 4: Remove from the freezer, scoop portions with a spoon, and roll into balls using your hands. Roll each truffle in your chosen coating. Return to the freezer for 15–30 minutes to firm up, then enjoy.
Hint: Experiment with toppings to create a variety — cacao powder, crushed nuts or cacao nibs all work well.
Leftovers
Store truffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months.
Recipe FAQs
Yes. These vegan truffles use coconut oil instead of cream, along with cacao powder, maple syrup and a pinch of salt.
Popular choices include cacao powder, crushed pistachios and cacao nibs. You can also add desiccated coconut or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Not all vegan products are gluten free, but this truffle recipe is gluten-free when made with gluten-free cacao and toppings.
A truffle is a bite-sized treat with a rich chocolate center, often coated in cocoa powder, nuts or other toppings.

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Vegan Chocolate Truffles
Ingredients
- 6 tbsp coconut oil, melted
- 6 tbsp cacao powder
- 5 tbsp maple syrup
- Pinch salt
Optional Toppings:
- Cacao powder
- Crushed pistachios
- Cacao nibs
Instructions
- Add the coconut oil, maple syrup and a pinch of salt to a bain-marie and mix until the coconut oil has melted.
- Slowly add the cacao powder, one tablespoon at a time, whisking until the mixture is smooth.
- Transfer the mixture to a freezer-proof dish and freeze for 45–60 minutes.
- Remove from the freezer when fairly firm, scoop portions and roll into balls. Coat with your chosen topping and freeze another 15–30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Step-by-step photos: The post includes photos to guide you through the process.
Substitutions & variations: See the sections above for alternatives and ideas.
To store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
To freeze: Freeze in an airtight container for up to three months.
Tips: Use a bain-marie to control heat, and ensure you freeze the mixture long enough so the truffles hold their shape when rolled.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 11 g |
Protein: 1 g |
Fat: 11 g |
Saturated Fat: 9 g |
Fiber: 1 g |
Sugar: 8 g
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