Description
Date-Nuts Energy Balls are a healthy, satisfying snack that combines dates, nuts, and seeds for a naturally sweet and energizing treat. These no-bake energy balls are packed with fiber, healthy fats, and protein, making them perfect for a quick snack or a post-workout boost.
Ingredients
1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1/2 cup almonds (or your preferred nuts, like cashews or walnuts)
1/4 cup sunflower seeds (or chia seeds, flaxseeds, etc.)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for added flavor)
1–2 tablespoons water (if needed to help bind the mixture)
A pinch of salt (optional, to enhance the flavors)
Instructions
- Prepare the dates: If the dates are not soft, soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes to soften. Drain and remove the pits if not already done.
- Process the mixture: In a food processor, combine the dates, almonds, sunflower seeds, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using). Pulse until everything is finely chopped and well mixed. The mixture should be sticky and slightly crumbly.
- Add water (if needed): If the mixture seems too dry and doesn’t hold together, add 1-2 tablespoons of water and pulse again until the mixture becomes sticky and easily holds together when pressed.
- Shape the energy balls: Using your hands, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture sticks to your hands, wet your hands slightly with water to make it easier to shape the balls.
- Chill and serve: Once all the energy balls are formed, place them on a parchment-lined tray or plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up. After chilling, they’re ready to enjoy!
- Serve: Enjoy these Date-Nuts Energy Balls as a quick snack, pre-workout fuel, or a healthy dessert. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 weeks.
Notes
Chocolate Date-Nuts Energy Balls: Add 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder or some mini dark chocolate chips to the mixture for a chocolatey twist.
Tropical Date-Nuts Energy Balls: Add dried coconut flakes and a bit of dried pineapple or mango to the mixture for a tropical flavor.
Protein-Packed Energy Balls: Stir in a scoop of your favorite protein powder for an extra boost of protein.
Spicy Date-Nuts Energy Balls: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger for a spicy kick.
Nut-Free Version: Use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds in place of nuts for a nut-free option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 energy ball
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg