Hazelnut & Dark Chocolate Energy Bites
These no-bake Hazelnut & Dark Chocolate Energy Bites are a wholesome and delicious treat, perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy dessert. Made with natural sweeteners and fiber-rich ingredients, they're both satisfying and easy to prepare.
For 12 servings
If desired, lightly toast the raw hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Let them cool completely before proceeding. This step enhances their nutty flavor.
In a food processor, combine the rolled oats and cooled hazelnuts. Pulse several times, then process until they form a coarse flour-like consistency. Be careful not to over-process into a butter.
Add the pitted Medjool dates, unsweetened cocoa powder, sea salt, and vanilla extract to the food processor. Process until the mixture comes together into a sticky, cohesive dough. It should stick when pressed between your fingers.
If the mixture seems too dry or crumbly and doesn't hold together easily, add the optional maple syrup, 1 teaspoon at a time, and process again until the desired sticky consistency is achieved.
Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a compact ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture. You should get about 12-15 bites.
If using, place the shredded coconut (or other coating) in a shallow dish. Roll each energy bite in the coating until evenly covered.
Arrange the finished energy bites on a plate or in an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up, which makes them less sticky and easier to handle.
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store any leftover energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For easier processing, ensure your dates are soft and fresh. If they seem dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain thoroughly before using.
- 2To prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands while rolling, lightly dampen your palms with water or lightly grease them with a tiny bit of coconut oil.
- 3Experiment with different coatings like finely chopped nuts, extra cocoa powder, or even a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for added indulgence.
- 4If your food processor struggles, process the oats and hazelnuts first, then remove half, add dates and other ingredients to the remaining half, process, then combine with the reserved oat mixture and process again until uniform.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nut/Seed Swap
Replace hazelnuts with almonds, walnuts, cashews, or a mix of seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a different flavor profile and nutritional boost.
Flavor BoostersFlavor Boosters
Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a pinch of cayenne pepper for a 'Mexican hot chocolate' twist, or the zest of half an orange for a citrusy note.
Protein PowerProtein Power
Incorporate 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite plant-based protein powder (e.g., pea or rice protein) for an added protein kick, adjusting liquid if needed.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Rolled oats and dates are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Healthy Fats & Antioxidants
Hazelnuts provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, while cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.
Sustained Energy
The combination of complex carbohydrates from oats, natural sugars from dates, and healthy fats from hazelnuts offers a balanced energy release, preventing sugar spikes and crashes.
Frequently asked questions
While a food processor is highly recommended for the best texture, you can try finely chopping the hazelnuts and dates by hand, then mixing all ingredients in a bowl. It will require more effort to get a cohesive dough.
