Walnut Coconut Cacao Energy Bites

Jun 1

What do you do when your freezer energy ball supply is running low and you didn't realize it until after you went to the grocery? Raid your well stocked pantry of course!

I had a busy few weeks at the end of April, and wanted something extra special to fuel my afternoons. Healthy fats, quick energy, and something a little decadent were my main criteria.

Here's the rundown on what I chose and why:

Walnuts = Healthy Fats + Brain Fuel
Coconut = Healthy Fats
Dates = Quick Energy + Fiber
Cacao Nibs = Antioxidants + Mood Enhancer + Chocolatey Goodness
Maca Powder = Energy + Mood Boosting + Fertility Enhancing Adaptogen

The result tastes like chewy, chunky coconut chocolate chip cookie dough. A perfect pick me up for that 4pm slump.

Freezer stash stocked.

Walnut Coconut Cacao Energy Bites

Makes 12-14 bites

12 soft medjool dates*
1 cup walnut halves
1/4 cup cacao nibs
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1 Tbs. maca powder
1/4 tsp. pure vanilla extract
pinch sea salt

Pulse walnuts in a food processor until coarsely chopped. Place into mixing bowl.

Add dates to food processor and pulse until a chunky paste forms (you don't want it too smooth). Scoop mixture into the bowl with walnuts.

Using your hands or a wooden spoon, mix walnuts and dates together until well incorporated. Add remaining ingredients and continue to work the dough until uniform and well incorporated.

Roll the mixture into 12-14 bite sized balls and place them in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet or other pan. Refrigerate for several hours until set.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or for several months in the freezer.

*If dates are hard, soak them in warm water for 3-5 minutes before processing. Be sure to drain them well first.