Chocolate Date Poppers

Craving a sweet treat without all of the processed sugar? These are really delicious and easy to change up if you prefer other ingredients. Named because you can literally pop these little nutritionally rich delights in your pocket or belly, and be on the run! They’re perfect for busy people because you can make them and store them in bulk.  I make a version of these often – and love to add cashews, hemp seed, or whatever other nut or seed I have in the fridge. Energy balls are an amazing opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. You really can’t mess them up! If they’re too dry, add a touch of water. Too wet? Add some ground flax seed to soak it up.

If you try this out, leave a comment and let us know what you think!

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup finely chopped almonds (reserved to make them look pretty and add a little crunch!)

• 10 dates, pitted

• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1/3 cup unsweetened coconut flakes

• 1/4 tsp. salt

• 2 tsp water

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp chia seeds

Directions:

1. Blend all ingredients (except the almonds) in a food processor, and blend until mostly smooth.

2. The consistency of the mixture should be somewhat dry, but you should be able to shape it without it crumbling apart. If you think you need more water, then add an additional 1 teaspoon of water to start, and blend to combine. (or, add more vanilla if you like it super vanilla-ey!)

3. Place the chopped almonds in a shallow bowl.

4. Remove the mixture from the food processor. Prepare a sheet of parchment paper.

5. Shape the mixture into 1- to 2-inch balls. Gently roll each ball in the almonds, and then place them on the parchment paper until you’re finished.

6. These should keep in an airtight container in your refrigerator for about 5 days. Serve as is, or in muffin papers.