What’s not to love about energy balls?
Whether you need an afternoon snack, post-workout treat, scrumptious dessert, or just-a-lil-something-to-nibble-on; energy balls are a delicious way to nourish yourself and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Because they’re packed with satiating fats, protein and fiber; these balls support steady blood sugar, and load you up with brain-healthy nutrients. And because they’re bite-size, you can take them wherever you go!
They’re also super versatile, require minimal ingredients (and no cooking!) and come together quickly. So let’s make this happen.
This recipe is:
Simple: All you need is a food processor and a little patience.
Minimal: Just 5 ingredients!!
Versatile: Your pantry is your playground. Use whatever nuts/seeds you have; swap out the blueberries for dried cherries (a friend used the Trader Joe’s Powerberries which was GENIUS), cacao nibs, dried mango; add spices or lemon zest – you can’t go wrong.
Delicious: I won’t lie, I do tend to brag about my own recipes. But when I shared these at a hike a few years ago, the levels of enthusiasm and gushing I received from my fellow hikers was unexpected and frankly a little alarming.
So yes – these are worth making.
Try them, let me know if you love them, and share! xo
Blueberry Coconut Bliss Bites
Makes ~18 tablespoon-size balls | Gluten-free | Vegan
1 cup freeze-dried blueberries (see note)
1 cup raw almonds
1 cup shredded coconut dried and unsweetened
4 dates pitted
¼ teaspoon sea salt
You’ll need a food processor, measuring cups & spoons and a little patience.
Throw the freeze-dried blueberries, almonds, coconut, pitted dates and sea salt into a food processor. Pulse until the ingredients crumble, then process until the mixture starts sticking together - for roughly 10 minutes. The mixture should stick when you press a little quantity between your fingers.
Once it's sticky enough, transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Using a tablespoon-size measuring spoon or a melon baller, scoop a small quantity of the mixture onto your hands, then roll into balls. This will make approximately 18 tablespoon-size balls.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge, and enjoy within 10 days.
Note:
I use a heavy-duty Cuisinart food processor which makes this recipe a breeze. A hand-chopper will work too but might take longer to get the texture you need. If that’s the case, add coconut oil or any nut/seed butter to the mixture to get it to stick.
You’ll find freeze-dried blueberries in any health food store or online. Swap out with other dried/freeze-dried fruit like mango, strawberries or apple for a yummy variation. If you use dried fruit, you may want to use fewer dates or omit them altogether.