Ingredients
- 7 oz (200 g) dates
- 2.1 oz (60 g) almonds
- 2.1 oz (60 g) cashews
- 0.35 oz (10 g) pumpkin seeds
- 2.1 oz (60 g) oatmeal
- 2.1 oz (60 g) dark chocolate (sugar-free)
- 1 tbsp peanut butter (15 g)
- 1 tbsp honey (15 g)
- 1 tsp vanilla essence (5 ml)
- 1 pinch salt
- ¼ tsp cinnamon (1 g)
- 3.5 oz (100 g) sesame seeds (for wrapping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dates
Start by soaking the dates to soften them for easier blending. Place the dates in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to soften. Once softened, drain the water and remove any pits from the dates. This will create a smooth, sticky texture that binds all the ingredients together.
Step 2: Blend the Dry Ingredients
In a blender or food processor, combine the almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, and oatmeal. Blend until the mixture forms small, even pieces. The ground nuts and oats will give your energy bites their hearty, nutritious base while providing a satisfying crunch.
Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients
Now add the soaked dates to the blender along with the dark chocolate, peanut butter, honey, salt, vanilla essence, and cinnamon. Blend the mixture until it becomes thick and sticky. This is the core of your energy bites, where all the ingredients come together in a rich, delicious blend. The chocolate adds depth, while the peanut butter and honey give it a smooth and slightly sweet flavor.
Step 4: Shape and Coat the Balls
Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to shape the energy bites. Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls using your hands. You can make them any size you like, but bite-sized portions work best for snacking and gifting.
To coat the balls, pour sesame seeds into a bowl. Roll each ball in the sesame seeds until they are fully coated. This adds a lovely crunch and a toasted flavor. Alternatively, you can use other coatings like grated coconut, cocoa powder, or crushed oats for a different texture and flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Store
For a beautiful presentation, place the coated energy bites in small paper baskets or cupcake liners. These make the bites look gift-ready and easy to serve.
Store the bites in an airtight container and refrigerate them to maintain their texture and freshness. They will last for up to a week, making them perfect for preparing in advance as a thoughtful, healthy gift.
Serving Suggestions
These date energy bites are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed anytime. Serve them as a healthy snack, a quick energy boost, or a sweet treat after meals. They also make a great homemade gift, packaged in a pretty box or jar.
Notes
- Customization: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping the nuts and seeds for your favorites, or adding other dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. If you prefer a different flavor, feel free to change the coating as well—try cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or shredded coconut for a different twist.
- Storage: To keep the energy bites fresh and firm, store them in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for longer storage and will last up to a month in the freezer.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 12 balls
Calories per Serving: 150 kcal
Total Fat: 9 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 40 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 15 g
Dietary Fiber: 3 g
Sugars: 8 g
Protein: 4 g