Description
This No-Sugar Energy Dessert is a wholesome, vegan snack made from nutrient-dense ingredients like Medjool dates, raw nuts, and superfood seeds. These energy balls are naturally sweetened without any added sugars, offering a delicious, quick, and healthy treat perfect for a midday boost or a guilt-free dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup raw almonds
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
Flavor and Texture Add-ins
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional
- 1–2 tablespoons water (as needed)
- Shredded unsweetened coconut for rolling (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a food processor, add the pitted dates, raw almonds, raw cashews, unsweetened cocoa powder, chia seeds, flaxseed meal, cinnamon, and sea salt. Pulse the mixture until it is finely chopped and starts to stick together, indicating a good texture for forming balls.
- Add Vanilla and Adjust Moisture: Pour in the vanilla extract and pulse again to incorporate. If the mixture feels too dry to hold together, slowly add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water, a little at a time, pulsing until the mixture forms a sticky, malleable dough.
- Shape Energy Balls: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll each portion into a ball using your hands. If desired, roll each ball in shredded unsweetened coconut to coat and add additional texture.
- Chill and Set: Place the formed energy balls on a tray lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the texture, making them easier to handle and enhancing flavor melding.
- Store Properly: After chilling, store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh for up to 1 week, providing a convenient, ready-to-eat snack.
Notes
- You can substitute other nuts like walnuts or pecans to vary the flavor and texture.
- For an extra boost of flavor, add a teaspoon of espresso powder or a pinch of orange zest into the mixing process.
