Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Energy Dessert is a great combination of sweet and nourishing ingredients. It’s packed with healthy fats from nuts and seeds, natural sweetness from honey or maple syrup, and a dose of protein. The best part is you don’t need to feel guilty when indulging in this treat, as it’s made without refined sugars or artificial ingredients. This is a guilt-free way to satisfy your cravings while fueling your body with energy, making it perfect for busy days or when you need a quick pick-me-up. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and doesn’t require baking!

Ingredients

1 cup almonds (or mixed nuts)
1/2 cup dates, pitted
1/4 cup unsweetened peanut butter (or almond butter)
2 tablespoons chia seeds
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of sea salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a food processor, combine the almonds, dates, peanut butter, chia seeds, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
Pulse until the mixture begins to come together. You may need to scrape down the sides of the bowl a couple of times.
Once the mixture is sticky and well combined, transfer it to a bowl.
Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. If the mixture is too sticky, you can lightly dampen your hands with water to make rolling easier.
Place the balls on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper.
Refrigerate the energy balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Once set, they are ready to enjoy. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes about 12 energy balls, depending on the size.
Total Time: 40 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations

Different Nuts: Feel free to use any type of nuts, such as cashews, walnuts, or pecans, depending on your preference.
Add-ins: You can add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or shredded coconut for extra flavor.
Sweeteners: If you prefer a different sweetener, try agave syrup or coconut nectar.
Flavor Boost: For a bit of spice, add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a little bit of cocoa powder.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to one month.
Reheating: These energy balls are best served chilled, but you can let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating if preferred.

FAQs

1. Can I use other nut butters instead of peanut butter?

Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or any nut butter of your choice.

2. Can I use dried fruit in this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding dried cranberries, apricots, or raisins will give these energy balls a natural sweetness and chewy texture.

3. How long do these energy balls last?

These energy balls will last up to a week in the refrigerator or about one month in the freezer.

4. Can I make these without a food processor?

Yes, you can chop the nuts finely by hand and mix all the ingredients together in a bowl, but a food processor makes it much easier to get the right consistency.

5. Can I use a different type of sweetener?

Yes, you can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut nectar as alternatives to honey.

6. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, simply use maple syrup or agave syrup instead of honey to make this recipe vegan.

7. Are these energy balls gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-based ingredients.

8. Can I add protein powder to this recipe?

Yes, you can add a scoop of protein powder to boost the protein content. Just be sure to adjust the amount of sweetener to your taste.

9. Can I make these energy balls in advance?

Yes, these energy balls can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a few days or frozen for longer storage.

10. Can I make these energy balls into bars instead?

Yes, you can press the mixture into a baking dish lined with parchment paper to make bars instead of balls. Just be sure to cut them after they chill.

Conclusion

This Energy Dessert is the perfect balance of sweet, healthy, and energizing ingredients that will fuel your body without weighing you down. Whether you need a quick snack or a healthy treat to curb your cravings, these energy balls are a delicious and nutritious option. With endless customization possibilities, you can make this recipe your own and enjoy it as part of your daily routine. Make a batch today and feel good about indulging in something sweet!

Energy Dessert That You Can Eat Without Guilt

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Looking for a sweet treat that won’t leave you feeling guilty? This energy dessert recipe is perfect for satisfying your cravings while providing a natural energy boost. Made with wholesome ingredients like almonds, dates, chia seeds, and natural sweeteners, these energy balls are the ideal healthy snack. Enjoy a dessert that fuels your body without refined sugars or artificial additives. Quick, easy, and customizable, it’s a guilt-free indulgence!

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 10 minute
Total Time: 40 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: About 12 energy balls
Category: Snack, Dessert, Healthy Treat
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 cup almonds (or mixed nuts)

1/2 cup dates, pitted

1/4 cup unsweetened peanut butter (or almond butter)

2 tablespoons chia seeds

2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of sea salt

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Instructions

In a food processor, combine almonds, dates, peanut butter, chia seeds, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
Pulse until the mixture starts to come together. Scrape down the sides of the bowl if needed.
Once the mixture is sticky and well combined, transfer it to a bowl.
Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If it’s too sticky, dampen your hands with water.
Place the energy balls on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.