Energy Balls with Dates and Cashews

Name: Energy Balls with Dates and Cashews
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 portions
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup Medjool dates (pitted); 1 cup raw cashews; 1/2 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed); 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened); 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

15 min 12 portions Easy

All Recipes

Wholesome energy balls featuring dates and cashews, perfect for a healthy snack or quick breakfast option.

Prep

10 min

Total

15 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Energy balls are a fantastic way to fuel your day with wholesome ingredients. These bite-sized snacks combine the natural sweetness of dates and the creamy texture of cashews to create a delightful treat. Perfect for on-the-go snacking, these energy balls are packed with nutrients and are incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you're looking for a midday pick-me-up or a quick breakfast option, these energy balls are sure to satisfy.

Instructions

Prepare the dates

Place the pitted dates in a food processor and pulse until they form a sticky paste.

Pro tip: If the dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes and drain before processing.

Add the cashews

Add the cashews to the food processor and pulse until roughly chopped, ensuring some texture remains.

Pro tip: Be careful not to over-process the cashews into a butter.

Combine remaining ingredients

Add the oats, cocoa powder, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and sea salt to the processor. Pulse until the mixture is well combined.

Pro tip: Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even mixing.

Chill the mixture

Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for about 5 minutes to firm up slightly.

Form the balls

Using a tablespoon, scoop the mixture and roll it between your palms to form balls. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

Pro tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.

Store the energy balls

Place the energy balls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator.

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Tips & Tricks

Use Medjool dates for their natural sweetness and soft texture.
Pulse the ingredients gently to maintain some texture in the energy balls.
Refrigerate the mixture before rolling to make it easier to handle.
Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are energy balls made of?

Energy balls are made of dates, raw cashews, rolled oats, cocoa powder, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and sea salt.

How long do energy balls last?

They last up to two weeks in the refrigerator and up to three months in the freezer.

Can I use a different nut instead of cashews?

Yes, you can substitute cashews with almonds or walnuts if you prefer.

Are these energy balls gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free rolled oats, these energy balls are gluten-free.

Can I add protein powder to the recipe?

Yes, you can add a scoop of your favourite protein powder to increase the protein content.

Serving Suggestions

These energy balls are best stored in the refrigerator, where they can last up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing them for up to three months. Pair these energy balls with a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing smoothie for a nourishing snack. They are also great to pack in lunchboxes or to take along on hikes and road trips.