The greatest thing about this recipe is... there isn't one! This is a great recipe for playing with your favourite tastes and incorporating whatever you like or have ready!
My usual mix:almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds (or meal), dried cranberries, medjool dates, agave, raw cacao, Raw Power (brand) protein blend, hemp hearts, cinnamon and a shredded coconut crust!
Energy Balls
raw option, gluten free, vegan, dairy free, processed sugar free, nut-free option
- Throw together in a food processor:
almonds, pecans, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts, pumpkin seeds, ANYTHING you want. (I sometimes skip this step and most people would have to, but it is always best to soak nuts and seeds overnight and then dehydrate til dry! This helps release any enzymes within the nut/seed so you can digest it easier, and to it's maximum nutrient potential!)
- Pulse until crumbly.
- Add some medjool dates (these are best, but if using other dates, be sure to soak in water for a bit before hand to loosen them up!) I also add a bit of agave in there for a bit more sweetness and for a bit of extra stickiness for the balls! (optional)
- Add dehydrated fruits of your choice: I prefer cranberries, but there are SO many things you can add!
- Add any other supplements, such as: protein powder, flax seeds, dehydrated&shredded coconut, cocoa (I keep mine as raw and true to form as possible by using a RAW cacao powder) cinnamon, spices, anything!
- Mix in food processor for smooth balls, or transfer to mixing bowl and stir in mix-ins, until it all forms a ball. Make as chunky or as smooth as you like! This is where it gets tricky, because adding too little dates won't allow it to stick, and too many will be a gooey mess! Add other ingredients as necessary to achieve desired consistency.
- Break off little chunks and roll into a ball with your hands. I make mine about the size of a timbit!
- Sprinkle some shredded coconut or processed nuts onto a plate and roll the ball around, pressing the bits into the ball. (This step to me is important, because mine usually come out a bit gooey and almost oily. Adding a bit of 'crust' not only gives these balls a delightful crunch and texture, but it soaks up any excess oils and helps prevent sticking and mushing into the rest of the balls during storage!)
- I keep these in a container in the refridgerator when possible. Especially in a warm house! But refridgeration is necessary if any ingredients are considered "raw" (and when using flax!)
** If nut free, use a heavy concentration of seeds and try sprouting buckwheat and/or quinoa and then dehydrating, or oven baking on super low until crispy
What are your favourite mix-ins?
I could not do without my sunflower seeds, almonds, cocao and coconut!
Do you eat dates regularly like I do?
I love medjool dates! When fresh, the texture is fantastic, and I find them very satisfying. Stay tuned for a educational post on the nutritional content of dates!
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