Go Back
–+ servings
A white plate holds a pyramid stack of chocolate energy bites with dates and visible bits of nuts, set on a wooden table.
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Date Energy balls Balls Recipe

Healthy date energy balls with 3 easy flavor variations. Naturally sweetened, freezer friendly and perfect for meal prep.
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Middle eastern, World
Keyword: easy, healthy, no-bake, vegan
Servings: 10 balls
Calories: 119kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Cacao Almond Date Balls:

  • 7 oz Medjool dates pitted
  • 3 oz Almonds
  • 2 tablespoons Cacao unsweetened (see notes)
  • 1 tablespoon Coconut oil
  • 1 tablespoon Natural peanut butter
  • Pinch Salt

Cashew Tahini Date Balls:

  • 7 oz Medjool dates pitted
  • 3 oz Cashew nuts
  • 1 tablespoon Coconut oil
  • 1 tablespoon Tahini
  • 3 tablespoons Desiccated coconut
  • Pinch Salt

Walnuts Cranberries Date Balls:

  • 7 oz Madjool dates pitted
  • 3 oz Walnuts
  • 1.7 oz Dried cranberries
  • 3 tablespoons Desiccated coconut
  • 1 tablespoon Coconut oil
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Crush the nuts: Add the nuts to a food processor and pulse for 10–15 seconds, until finely crumbly.
  • Add the dates: Add the dates and the remaining ingredients and process for about 1 minute, or until the mixture becomes sticky and holds together when pressed between your fingers.
  • Shape into balls: Scoop and roll the mixture into small balls using your hands.
  • If desired, roll the balls in shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or cacao powder.
  • Chill: Chill for 15–20 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Video

Notes

  • Dates: Soft Medjool dates work best for this recipe. If your dates are dry or firm, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain well before using.
  • Cacao vs. Cocoa Powder: Both work well here. Raw cacao powder has a slightly richer and more bitter flavor, while unsweetened cocoa powder gives a more classic chocolate taste. You can use either one.
  • Yield: Each variation makes approximately 10 date balls, depending on the size.
  • Texture: If the mixture feels too dry, add 1–2 teaspoons of water or extra coconut oil. If it’s too sticky, add a little more coconut or nuts.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They also freeze very well for up to 2 months.
  • Variations: You can easily customize these with chia seeds, flaxseeds, cinnamon, vanilla extract, espresso powder, or different nut butters.

Nutrition

Calories: 119kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 156mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 21IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 21mg | Iron: 1mg