Dates Chocolate & Nut Balls Recipe (Energy Balls)
Description:
The Dates Chocolate & Nut Balls, also known as Energy Balls, are an easy-to-make, no-bake snack that’s perfect for any occasion. These bite-sized balls are packed with nutrients and natural sweetness, thanks to the richness of dates. They are a wonderful alternative to sugary treats and provide a natural energy boost. Ideal for a quick snack, these energy balls are great for kids’ lunch boxes, a post-workout snack, or even as a delightful tea-time treat. They’re made without any added sugars, using dates to give them a natural sweetness that is better for you and your family. Whether you’re on the go or looking to satisfy a sweet craving, these healthy treats have got you covered!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dates (seedless) | 500 grams |
| Cashew nuts | 30 pieces |
| Whole almonds (badam) | 30 pieces |
| Pistachios | 30 pieces |
| Cocoa powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Sesame seeds (Til seeds) | 1/4 cup (roasted) |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information
Serving size: 1 ball (approx. 30g)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Sugars | 14g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Approx. 20-25 energy balls
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dates Paste
Start by grinding the seedless dates in a food processor or a mixer. Pulse the dates until you have a smooth, fine paste. Avoid adding water, as you want the mixture to stay thick. -
Chop the Nuts
Finely chop the cashew nuts, almonds, and pistachios into small pieces and set them aside for later use. -
Roast the Nuts
In a non-stick flat-bottomed pan, heat 1/2 tablespoon of ghee over a low to medium flame. Once the ghee has melted, add the chopped cashew nuts, almonds, and pistachios. Gently roast them, stirring occasionally, until they become golden and fragrant. Make sure not to burn them. Once roasted, remove them from the pan and set them aside. -
Cook the Date Mixture
In the same pan, add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of ghee. Once the ghee melts, add the ground date paste to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing the dates to absorb the ghee and become aromatic. Remove the pan from the heat and set it aside to cool for a few minutes. -
Combine the Ingredients
Once the date mixture has cooled slightly, add the roasted nuts along with the cocoa powder to the pan. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that the nuts and cocoa are well distributed throughout the date paste. Let the mixture cool down until it is cool enough to handle with your hands. -
Shape the Energy Balls
Once the mixture is cool enough, use your hands to form the mixture into bite-sized balls, roughly the size of a lemon. You can make them larger or smaller based on your preference. -
Coat the Balls
Roll each date chocolate ball in roasted sesame seeds, desiccated coconut, or cocoa powder for an extra touch of flavor and texture. This step is optional but adds a nice contrast to the richness of the dates and nuts. -
Store and Enjoy
Once all the balls are shaped and coated, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks, making them perfect for meal prep, snacking on the go, or even gifting during festive seasons like Diwali.
Serving Suggestions
These Dates Chocolate & Nut Balls are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them as a post-workout snack to replenish your energy, pop them into lunch boxes for a healthy treat, or keep them on hand for those mid-afternoon sweet cravings. Their bite-sized form makes them easy to carry while traveling, and they can even be used as a thoughtful gift wrapped in decorative packaging.
Pro Tips
- For a different flavor, try rolling the balls in shredded coconut or even chopped dried fruit like apricots or cranberries.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute the sesame seeds with more cocoa powder or try using almond flour for a slight variation in texture.
- These energy balls can also be made without the ghee for a dairy-free version, using coconut oil as an alternative for binding.
Enjoy the natural sweetness and crunch of these Dates Chocolate & Nut Balls — the perfect energy-packed snack for any time of day!
