Chocolate Coconut Energy Balls
/Yield: ~ 15 balls
Prep time: ~ 10 minutes
This past weekend, I was lucky enough to not only be welcomed to participate in a prenatal yoga session but also to talk to some amazing mamas about nutrition during pregnancy. And as with any nutrition talk, yummy snacks are essential!
Before the session, I was trying to think of a quick and easy recipe that the mamas could make with their busy schedule and I ended up stumbling upon the perfect one! This recipe is amazing in that it not only tastes delicious (of course there is cocoa), but you only need 5 ingredients, there is no bake time and it has those healthy omega-3 fatty acids we all need! Keeping our energy levels up and our bellies full and happy.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup walnuts*
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup dates, pitted**
- 1 Tbsp cocoa powder
- ~ 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut
Instructions:
- Add walnuts, rolled oats and cocoa powder to a high speed blender. Process to a flour-like consistency.
- Add in dates. Mix ingredients throughly to a dough-like consistency.
- Place coconut onto a plate.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop out some dough and form mixture into a ball with your hands.
- Roll ball into coconut.
- Place energy balls in a storage container and freeze for about 1-2 hours. These will last about a week in the fridge.
* I have only tried walnuts but I’m sure almonds or even hazelnuts would taste just as great (not
as many of the omega-3 fats but that’s okay!)
** If dates are not soft, soak in water for at least 1 hour.
Interesting nutrition fact: Why are omega-3 fats so good for us?
Omega 3 fatty acids are helpful in reducing inflammation and blood clotting. In utero, omega 3 fats help develop the nervous system. Research is still being done to see if omega-3 fats can help lower the risk of depression, cancer and dementia.
Happy snacking,
xo Lisa
Recipe inspired from A Sunshine Mission.