Chocolate Chip Energy Balls
One of the best things I started doing in recent years is make snacks at home. I used to rely on packaged snacks until I started making homemade energy balls like these. I always keep these Chocolate Chip Energy Balls and other similar snacks on hand. Having homemade snacks prepped in the fridge or freezer is something I swear by to help me cut down on my intake of packaged snacks.
These balls are so easy to make and require minimal ingredients. plus, they are naturally gluten free and vegan friendly.
To sweeten, I use dates in their whole fruit form. Since dates as a whole fruit contain fiber you don’t have to worry about them spiking your blood sugar like added sugars (unrefined and refined sugars). Plus, these balls contain extra fiber, protein and healthy fats which helps contribute to blood sugar regulation.
I do love adding chocolate chips or chunks to these balls because they add a little extra something delicious. You can skip the chocolate chips if you want to avoid any added sugars and they will still be just as delicious. You can also look for an added sugar free dark chocolate at your local health food store or simply use cacao nibs if you want the chocolate without added sugars.
To store, just place the balls in a sealed glass container or a reusable silicone bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months or in the fridge for up to a week.
This recipe does require soft dates for the best consistency. If you are using dates that are not soft and are somewhat dry, just add them to a bowl of water and soak for 30-60 minutes to soften.
What you need (makes 12 balls):
1 cup rolled oats
A pinch of salt
3 tbsp almond butter
12 pitted and softened dates
2 tbsp of flax meal
1/4 tsp vanilla bean powder or 1 tsp vanilla extract
1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
Directions: Add the oats, salt, almond butter, dates, flax meal and vanilla to a food processor and pulse until everything is broken down into small pieces (it doesn’t have to be a smooth batter). Then transfer the dough into a mixing bowl. Fold in the chocolate chips. Then begin scooping out about 2 tbsp of batter and form into balls. It might help to squeeze them in the palm of your hand to form the balls instead of rolling them. Enjoy.