Chocolate Espresso Energy Bites

overhead shot of date balls on a white plate

5 from 1 vote

Chocolate Espresso Energy Bites

Chocolate espresso energy bites are a delicious and protein-packed on-the-go snack! This recipe is Whole30, Paleo, and Vegan approved. I have a ziplock bag of these date balls in my freezer at all times.

Prep Time15

Cook Time15

Total Time30

Course: healthy snacks

Cuisine: American

Servings: energy bites

Calories: 99kcal

Author: Mike Cleavenger

Ingredients

2 cups pitted Medjool dates
2 cups cashews raw
1 cup almonds unsalted
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
2 tablespoons coconut oil melted
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons espresso
½ teaspoon sea salt

Garnishes

Malden sea salt
unsweetened shredded coconut

Instructions

Place all ingredients into a food processor. Pulse until everything comes together into a large ball. If the mixture is too dry add another tablespoon of espresso or water.
Using a ½ ounce cookie scoop portion energy bites out onto a parchment-lined baking tray.
Roll between hands to form a circular and smooth ball. If your hands get sticky place a few drops of water on your hands to keep the dates from sticking to them.
Place a few flakes of Malden sea salt on top of each date ball and lightly press the salt into the ball.
Flash freeze the date ball in the freezer on the baking tray. Once completely frozen, transfer the balls to a ziplock bag, and leave them in the freezer.

Video

Notes

Medjool dates are the best. I find that these dates are the softest and stickiest dates out there. Other varieties require you to rehydrate to soften them up.

Don't add too much liquid at first. You want to add just enough water or espresso to bring the mixture together. To achieve the best result, add 1 tablespoon of liquid at a time until you reach the desired texture.

Use a food processor. Sure you can chop the nuts and dates by hand, but I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy. I love my Cuisinart food processor for this task. Just throw everything in and pulse it until the dates form a large ball.

Keep hot water nearby. Dates are so sticky! They stick to your hands and cookie scoop. I like to dip my scoop in the hot water to clean it during the process. Put a couple of drops of water on your hands and it will keep the dates from sticking.

Nutrition