No-Bake Energy Balls – Perfect Pre-Workout Fuel

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted (about 12-14 dates)
• 1 cup raw almonds
• 1/4 cup raw walnuts
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
• 3 tbsp cacao powder
• 2 tbsp chia seeds
• 2 tbsp hemp seeds
• 2 tbsp almond butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 2-3 tbsp water (as needed for consistency)
• Optional coatings: shredded coconut, cacao powder, crushed nuts

Instructions:

1. Prepare dates: If dates are dry, soak in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain well.
2. Process nuts: In a food processor, pulse almonds and walnuts until finely chopped but not butter. Transfer to a bowl.
3. Process dates: Add dates to food processor and blend until they form a sticky paste.
4. Combine ingredients: Return chopped nuts to processor with dates. Add oats, cacao powder, chia seeds, hemp seeds, almond butter, vanilla, and salt.
5. Process mixture: Pulse until all ingredients are well combined and mixture holds together when pressed. Add water 1 tablespoon at a time if too dry.
6. Test consistency: Mixture should stick together when pressed but not be overly wet or sticky.
7. Roll balls: Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion mixture and roll into 1-inch balls between your palms.
8. Optional coating: Roll balls in shredded coconut, cacao powder, or crushed nuts if desired.
9. Chill and store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for at least 30 minutes before eating. Store for up to 2 weeks refrigerated or 3 months frozen.

Nutrition (per energy ball):

Calories: 110 | Protein: 3g | Carbs: 12g | Fiber: 3g | Fat: 6g

Natural Energy Without the Crash

Fuel your workouts and busy days with these nutrient-dense, no-bake energy balls that provide sustained energy without any refined sugar or artificial ingredients. These portable power bites take just 15 minutes to make and deliver the perfect combination of natural carbohydrates, healthy fats, and plant-based protein to power you through any activity.

Unlike commercial energy bars loaded with processed ingredients and added sugars, these homemade energy balls use whole food ingredients that provide clean, lasting energy. The combination of dates, nuts, seeds, and oats creates a perfect pre-workout fuel that won’t cause blood sugar spikes or energy crashes.

Health Benefits

• Sustained Energy: Natural sugars from dates provide quick energy while fiber slows absorption
• Plant-Based Protein: Nuts and seeds deliver complete amino acids for muscle support
• Healthy Fats: Omega-3s and monounsaturated fats support heart and brain health
• Fiber Rich: Oats and dates provide digestive support and satiety
• Antioxidant Power: Cacao and nuts deliver free radical-fighting compounds
• No Added Sugar: Sweetened only with whole fruit for stable blood sugar