Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping things healthy. The dates provide natural sweetness and fiber, while the almonds offer a crunchy texture and a boost of protein. Plus, with no baking required, you can whip these up in no time for a delicious snack or dessert. They’re also portable and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for convenience!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1/16 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
- 3/4 cup medjool dates, pitted
- 1 1/2 tablespoons warm water
- 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup coarsely chopped almonds
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Whisk together the oats, cocoa powder, and salt in a large bowl.
- Puree the dates and warm water in a food processor or blender to form a paste.
- Add the date paste to the bowl with the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. Use your hands if necessary to combine.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Spread the chopped almonds and shredded coconut on a plate.
- Roll the balls in the almond-coconut mixture, pressing the toppings into the balls to adhere.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or in the freezer for 2-3 weeks.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 balls (1 ball per serving)
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Add-ins: Mix in some dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness and texture.
- Nut butters: You can substitute the almonds with other nuts like cashews or add a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter for a creamier texture.
- Sweetener: For a sweeter bite, consider adding a little honey or maple syrup to the date paste mixture.
Storage/Reheating
Store these chocolate coconut almond balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you prefer longer storage, keep them in the freezer, where they’ll last for 2-3 weeks. There’s no need to reheat them; just enjoy them straight from the fridge or freezer!
FAQs
1. Can I use regular dates instead of Medjool dates?
Yes, you can, but Medjool dates are softer and sweeter, making them easier to blend into a paste.
2. Can I substitute the oats with another grain?
Yes, you can use quick oats or even ground flaxseeds as a substitute for oats.
3. How many balls does this recipe make?
This recipe yields about 12 one-inch diameter balls.
4. Can I use sweetened shredded coconut?
It’s best to use unsweetened coconut to keep the recipe healthier, but sweetened coconut can work if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
5. Can I make these balls vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan, as it doesn’t contain any dairy or animal products.
6. How can I make these balls more chocolatey?
To make these even more chocolatey, you can add a bit more cocoa powder or mix in chocolate chips.
7. Are these balls gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, these chocolate coconut almond balls are gluten-free.
8. How can I make the balls firmer?
If the mixture is too loose, you can add a bit more oats or coconut to help bind the ingredients together.
9. Can I use other nuts in place of almonds?
Yes, you can use any nut of your choice, such as walnuts, pecans, or cashews.
10. Do I need to refrigerate the balls?
Yes, it’s best to refrigerate the balls to maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming too soft.
Conclusion
These chocolate coconut almond balls are a fantastic snack or dessert that delivers a perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and nutrition. They are easy to make, require no baking, and store well in the fridge or freezer. Whether you’re looking for a quick energy boost or a healthier alternative to sugary treats, these bite-sized delights will definitely hit the spot!
