Almond and coconut energy balls
These throw-together snacks are easy to make and store for a filling, quick bite on the go.
Let’s talk energy balls, shall we? Sometimes called “energy bites,” these sticky, two-bite goodies are naturally sweetened with dates and come together in a food processor in minutes. They require minimal ingredients, can be modified to suit your tastes, and are surprisingly filling for such a tiny treat. Best of all, when stored in the fridge, they last for weeks.
This is the thing I grab when I absentmindedly open the fridge, looking for something (in both food and existential senses).
A couple of notes:
Make the balls small! The mixture is pretty caloric, so I make them no more than about 1 Tbsp each.
Do toast the almonds and coconut. That little bit of browning really enhances the flavor and makes the balls less sweet.
Test your dates before using. If they don’t squish almost effortlessly, they may be a bit too tough or dry. If that’s the case, cover them with boiling (or just really really hot) water and let sit for 5 minutes.
Almond and coconut energy balls
Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 16 balls
1/2 cup raw almonds
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded or flaked coconut
16 pitted dates, rehydrated if too tough or dry
2-3 Tbsp almond butter
1/8 tsp almond extract
Pinch of salt
Water, as needed
Preheat the oven or toaster oven to 350. Spread the almonds and coconut out onto a baking sheet and toast until the coconut is just beginning to brown on the edges and the mixture smells nutty, about 3 minutes. Keep a close eye on the mixture to ensure that it doesn’t burn.
Put the toasted almonds and coconut in a food processor along with the dates, almond butter, almond extract, and salt. Whizz in the processor until the mixture comes together in one large mass, about 4-5 minutes. If the mixture doesn’t come together, sprinkle in about 1/2 tsp of water and try again, repeating about every 30 seconds until you have a large mass.
Scoop about 1 Tbsp of the mixture into wet hands and roll into a ball.
Chill the balls in the refrigerator to help them set.