Protein Date & Nut Energy Balls

Quantities update as you change servings — treat scaled amounts as a guide, not an exact measure.

• 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
• ½ cup almonds
• ¼ cup peanut butter or almond butter
• 2 tbsp chia seeds
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: 1 tbsp water if mixture is too dry
• Optional: 2 tbsp shredded coconut for rolling

Method

1. 1 Pulse the almonds in a food processor for about 20 seconds until finely chopped but not a paste — you still want a little texture.
2. 2 Add the pitted dates, nut butter, chia seeds, cocoa powder, coconut oil and vanilla extract to the processor.
3. 3 Blend until the mixture comes together into a sticky, cohesive dough that holds its shape when pressed — if it's too dry and crumbly to stick together, add the water, one tablespoon at a time, and blend again.
4. 4 Scoop level tablespoons of the mixture and roll firmly between your palms into balls — firm, even pressure gives a smoother finish than a light touch.
5. 5 Roll in shredded coconut if using, then refrigerate in an airtight container for at least 30 minutes to firm up (they will keep for up to a week chilled).