Chocolate Coconut Energy Balls with Pecans and Dates
User Reviews
5
Chocolate Coconut Energy Balls with Pecans and Dates
Description
This recipe combines roughly chopped pecans with chopped dates, half the shredded coconut, cocoa powder, coconut oil, and a pinch of kosher salt. The ingredients are processed until they form a dense mixture that can be shaped by hand. If the mixture is too dry, a bit of water is added to help it bind. Portions are rolled into balls with a tablespoon measure and then coated evenly with reserved shredded coconut. Placing the balls in the refrigerator for at least thirty minutes firms their texture, making them easy to handle and eat later.
The energy balls offer a chewy texture featuring the natural sweetness from the dates along with nutty and chocolate notes. Coating with coconut adds a tender, slightly crisp layer on the outside. These snacks are portable and bite-sized, suitable for a quick nutritious bite at home or on the go.
Variations may substitute pecans with other nuts like almonds or walnuts, or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. The size and yield of the energy balls will vary based on the size of dates and scooping technique.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pecans
- 15 dates roughly chopped, whole, pitted
- 1/2 cup coconut divided, shredded, unsweetened
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon water (if needed)
Instructions
- Put pecans (1/2 cup) in food processor and pulse until roughly chopped.
- Place 1/4 cup of the shredded coconut in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Add the remaining ingredients except for the 1 tablespoon water to the food processor. Turn food processor on until very well mixed. If mixture seems too dry to stick together, add the water.
- Using a tablespoon measure, spoon out mixture and roll in balls.
- Coat each ball in the reserved 1/4 cup shredded coconut.
- Place on a parchment covered baking sheet and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes, until they harden.
- Store in the fridge in an airtight container or plastic bag for up to two weeks.
Notes
- To make nut-free, replace pecans with sunflower seeds.
- Almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts can be used as alternatives to pecans.
- The recipe yields about 16 energy balls, but the amount may vary based on date size and portioning method.
- Nutrition details do not include added seasoning or brand variations; consider calculating separately if needed.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 16energy balls
Amount Per Serving
Calories 67 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1energy ball | |
| Calories | 67kcal | 3% |
| Carbohydrates | 6g | 2% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 5g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 4mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 79mg | 2% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 5g | 10% |
| Vitamin A | 2IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 0.1mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 6mg | 1% |
| Iron | 0.3mg | 2% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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