We are big fans of energy balls! And what’s not to love? These bite size treats are:
Naturally sweet
Easy to make
Portable
Nutritious
There are many different variations of energy balls on the internet. This recipe, though, is one of my favorites. The balls are sweet with a gingery kick that I love! I try to keep pecans and walnuts in my pantry at all times and I just love their flavor combination with dates, coconut, and ginger. I was originally inspired by Every Last Bite’s recipe for this delicious version. These tasty bites contain only 5 ingredients, all of which boast amazing benefits.
Medjool Dates: This FRESH fruit is a great natural sweetener. Yes, Medjool dates are not dried like other dates. There is no processing at all; the dates are just picked, cleaned, and packaged. They contain many vitamins and minerals, antioxidants and of course fiber. Interestingly, studies have also shown dates to promote labor. (I wish I would have known that 12 years ago…!)
Nuts: I used pecans and walnuts in this recipe. You could really use any other nut that you have on hand. Nuts are a great source of protein. Walnuts in particular are a great source of omega-3 and both types help fight inflammation and contain antioxidants.
Coconut flakes: Another high fiber ingredient, coconut flakes have also been linked to detoxification.
Ginger: This recipe contains 2 whole tablespoons of fresh ginger. Ginger has long been touted for its medicinal properties as well as its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
These bits come together quickly and will last in the fridge for a week. You can store them in the freezer and actually taste great frozen! Grab your food processor and let’s go!
Boasting amazing health benefits, these bite-sized treats are naturally sweetened with a slight kick of ginger. They are a perfect afternoon pick-me-up and your kids will never know they’re good for them!
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup medjool dates
2 Tbsp pecans (may substitute any nut you have on hand)
2 Tbsp walnuts (may substitute any nut you have on hand)
3/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
2 Tbsp grated fresh ginger
Instructions
Peel and grate 2 Tbsp fresh ginger.
Place nuts into a food processor and pulse a few times.
Add the rest of the ingredients to the food processor and process until everything incorporated and is chopped into tiny pieces.
Using your hands, form balls with the mixture. I usually make mine into about 1-inch balls.
If desired, roll the finished balls in extra coconut flakes. (The phots show half the balls rolled in coconut flakes and half plain)
Grand-daughter loves these!
★★★★★