My obsession with dates continues…it’s hard to beat the date caramel in my Wild Blueberry Tarts, but these Chocolate Energy Balls are about as delicious as a truly healthy sweet snack gets. A great source of protein without any added sweeteners/sugar, these are perfect for before or after a workout. I also love them for a quick boost when that mid-afternoon sweet craving hits.
A Lärabar but better!
If you’ve had a Lärabar, these have the same texture from the date+nuts base, plus added nutrients from hemp and flaxseed (see my Super Seeds post).
To get that smooth texture, you’ll need a food processor, which I know some of my newbie cooks may not have 🙁 I got a Cuisinart Mini Prep a few years ago and it’s served me really well — perfect size for 1-2 people (and small kitchens) and you can get it for about $40 or less. I also use it to make pesto and other sauces, hummus, etc.
Make the switch to Cacao
At first glance, you might think ‘cacao’ is just a fancy spelling of ‘cocoa’ but there’s actually a big difference! Cacao is the completely raw form of chocolate, which means that it provides the most nutrients. It’s full of powerful antioxidants that protect the nervous system and reduce the risk of heart disease.
So when you’ve heard that dark chocolate is good for you, we’re not talking about Hershey’s dark. If you can’t find cacao powder at your grocery store, there are a ton of great options on Amazon, including my new favorite, Terrasoul.
Chocolate Energy Balls
Ingredients
- 1.5 cup raw nuts (I like half cashews and half walnuts)
- 1 cup pitted dates*
- 3 tbsp hemp seeds, ground flaxseed or a mix
- 2 tbsp raw cacao powder**
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract optional
- 1 tbsp water or coconut oil if needed
Instructions
- Add the nuts to the bowl of your food processor - I use my Cuisinart Mini Prep - and process into small crumbs.
- Add the pitted dates (soaked if needed - see notes) and process until a sticky mixture forms.
- Lastly, add the seeds, cacao powder and vanilla, if using, and process again until well combined. I usually need to stop a few times and use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides. If the mixture isn't sticking together, you can add 1 tablespoon of water or coconut oil.
- Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls with your hands (it should make 8-10), and place on a cookie sheet or large plate. Freeze for about 15 minutes, or until cold. Eat right away, or store in an airtight container or bag in the fridge or freezer (they stay soft even in the freezer so I eat them straight from there).
Cindy Phillips
Hi chefshiv, Love these. Made them as as soon as you gave me the recipe. Everyone I shared them with loved them even Madison who is 9. I am going to try and make them tomorrow with figs. Love, Cindy
Daisy Dolan
Sioban…these little protein ball are DELICIOUS!!! I am not a huge fan of dates, but these are not like what I would expect from dates. These delights are the perfect combo of slightly sweet with a light chocolate flavor. I love the texture with the seeds and nuts. They hold their shape with just the right amount of moisture and density of ingredients. Perfect!! I could easily eat many of them at once, they are that addicting! I can’t wait to make these, to stash in my freezer. Someone at my work let me try a few that she made. 🙂
Siobhan
Hi Daisy, that’s so great to hear – thanks for letting me know!
Michele
Just made these, and like them more than Lara bars. The cacao adds a nice flavor, and makes them less super sweet.
I like the extra texture the of the seeds too. I now have a nice supply in the freezer.
Siobhan
Great! And I agree – I like having the option of a quick bite instead of a whole bar