Chocolate energy balls
If you’re new to the concept of energy balls, read on! And if you’ve already tried several variations, keep reading too because, to me and my little jury, this is by far the winning recipe.
WHAT ARE ENERGY BITES?
These little tasty powerhouses are a big hit amongst foodies around the globe. Why? Because they’re incredibly easy to make, taste delicious, are refined sugar free, and are packed with power foods. They’re usually made with a choice of crushed nuts, seeds, oats, coconut, nut butters, and dates or other dried fruit to make it all stick together. The ingredients are simply mixed in a food processor and then rolled into cute balls that are easy to eat on-the-go. Make sure to check out my popular apricot-coconut bliss balls.
A FEW WORDS ABOUT THE INGREDIENTS:
Nuts. I used almonds in this recipe, but you can experiment with any kind of nuts. If you want to find out more about the health benefits of nuts, read this interesting piece.
Medjool dates. it’s important to use Medjool dates for this recipe, as they are larger than most dates and are prized for their caramel-like taste and chewy texture. They are easily digested and an excellent source of fibre. They’re also full of important vitamins and minerals. Although fairly high in glucose or fructose, dates contain a special kind of soluble fibre called beta-D-glucan, which helps control blood sugar.
Raw cacao powder. Don’t use a processed cacao powder (such as Nesquick) because it’s high in sugar and stripped of all the health benefits of raw cacao. Raw cacao powder is especially popular for its high concentration of flavonoids which are extremely powerful antioxidants (four times the antioxidant power of regular dark chocolate).
If you struggle to find healthy snack ideas for your children, make sure to read this post: Healthy snacks for kids or download my free ebook "20 sugar-free snacks for kids" right below this post.
Ingredients
Makes about 30 balls (depending on size)
*Unless stated differently, my recipes are measured with US measuring cups like these ones.
Directions
Put the almonds in the food processor and blend for about 30 seconds until they’re nicely crushed
Add all the other ingredients and blend again until everything has mixed together and a sticky dough has formed
Roll the mix into small balls
If desired, roll them into shredded coconut
Store in the fridge in an airtight container or freeze
Ingredients
Directions
Put the almonds in the food processor and blend for about 30 seconds until they’re nicely crushed
Add all the other ingredients and blend again until everything has mixed together and a sticky dough has formed
Roll the mix into small balls
If desired, roll them into shredded coconut
Store in the fridge in an airtight container or freeze