Energy Balls

These no bake coconut and date macaroons, aka “energy balls”, are my latest obsession. They really hit the spot while completely satisfying my sweet tooth craving. The best part is the sweetness comes naturally from the dates so there is NO other sugar needed.  Guilt-free AND amazing! Can you say hallelujah? 

I call them energy balls because they’re that perfect afternoon snack to quickly pop in your mouth and keep your energy going until dinner. The almonds contain your protein, coconut is packed full of the good fats, and dates are a great source of fiber and carbs that your body can easily access for energy.  

Ingredients:

Almonds, Dates, Shredded Coconut, Coconut Oil, Cacao Powder

Step 1 – In a food processor, pulse 1 cup of almonds until it becomes almost flour consistency, but make sure to leave some chunks.  You don't want it completely smooth.

Step 2 – Remove the pits from about 15 dates. Try to buy the honey dates because they're sweeter,  but the medjools are fine too. Add them to the almonds and blend until it’s dough-like.

Step 3 – Add 2 tbsp of cacao powder and 3 tbsp of coconut oil and blend.

Step 4 – Take your heavenly dough and starting rolling them into balls.

WARNING: Restricting yourself from eating spoonfuls of the dough at this point is extremely challenging.

Step 5 – Take your balls and roll them into a bowl of shredded coconut coating them evenly.

Step 6 – Place them on a sheet parchment paper and set in the fridge for 2 hours.

Step 7 – Enjoy!

Optional: I added some hazelnuts and cashews with the almonds to give it a little more of a creamy texture as well as enhance the flavor. Feel free to experiment with other kinds of nuts!