Happy Holidays! These chocolate coconut date energy balls are a wonderful alternative to traditional holiday treats, satisfying your sweet cravings while keeping your health in mind. They are vegan, nut-free, gluten-free, and packed with natural, nutritious ingredients. In place of nuts, hemp seeds provide a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Dates offer natural sweetness and an abundance of fibre and micronutrients, making them a better sweetener compared to sugar when enjoyed in moderation. The coconut coating not only gives them a festive look without the use of powdered sugar but also adds a delightful coconut flavour. This guilt-free treat makes for a delectable and wholesome holiday indulgence.

Yield: 15 Balls

Ingredients

20 Large Medjool Dates, Pitted

1 ¼ Cup Desiccated Coconut (shredded, unsweetened)

¼ Cup Unsweetened Cacao Powder

½ Cup Hemp Seeds

2 Tbsp Water

A pinch of sea salt

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet or plate with parchment paper. Then, place ¼ Cup of desiccated coconut into a separate small bowl. Set aside.
2. In a food processor, add pitted Medjool dates, the remaining 1 cup of desiccated coconut, cacao powder, hemp seeds, water, and salt. Pulse until it forms a paste-like texture. If things aren’t sticking together, add more water, a little at a time until it does.
3. Scoop a heaping tablespoon of mixture into your hands and roll into a ball. Then, roll the ball in the bowl with the coconut until the outsides of the ball are fully coated. Place the finished ball onto the parchment-lined baking sheet or plate. Repeat until all the mixture is used up.
4. Place the balls into the freezer for 2 hours allowing them to firm up.
5. Thaw the balls for a few minutes before you enjoy them.

Nutritional Information (per ball)

177 calories, 28g carbohydrates (4g fibre, 22g sugar), 3g protein, 8g fat (4.5g saturated, 0g trans, 3.5g unsaturated), 15mg sodium

Recipe adapted from Walder Wellness and approved by Chloe Cheng, Registered Dietitian, Wholesome Kids Catering.