I’m writing this recipe a few days after Halloween, so of course, I have candy and sweets on my mind! This recipe is a healthier take on an Almond Joy, which is such an underrated candy. Instead of candy, these chocolate coconut energy balls are gluten-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free. They’re made with dates and coconut which give them amazing flavor and texture! You’re going to love having these energy balls for a quick snack or a delicious dessert.

Do you love having a sweet treat every day as well? You can check out my blog post about eating dessert every day to read more about that! Whether it’s Halloween candy or a delicious homemade treat like this, a sweet snack is a must throughout the day. These chocolate coconut energy balls are the best snack to satisfy your mid-day sweet tooth and get you through work or school. They’re packed with fruit and healthy fats, which will keep you full and satisfied.

What Ingredients Do I Need?

These chocolate coconut energy balls could not be simpler. You only need a few ingredients to make these incredibly fudgy and decadent treats. Here is everything you’ll need:

Noor Deglet dates
Peanut butter
Cacao powder
Maple syrup
Shredded coconut
Vanilla extract
Salt

Types of Dates

Nope, I’m not referring to a romantic date here. The dates that I’m talking about are the sweet fruit that is so underrated! They don’t always look the prettiest, but don’t knock them until you try them.

I purchased a big bag of Noor Deglet dates from TJ Maxx that I love to snack on and bake with. A lot of people purchase Medjool dates, which are commonly found at grocery stores. Both would work in this recipe, but they do have a different flavor profile.

Medjool dates are on the sweeter side, while Noor Deglet dates tend to have a nuttier taste. I prefer using Noor Deglet dates in recipes because of their flavor, but it’s totally based on preference. Either type of date would work in this recipe, it just depends on how sweet you want these energy balls.

Soaking the Dates

All you need to make these chocolate coconut energy balls are a food processor! Throwing all the ingredients into one bowl or appliance is always a favorite of mine. Less clean up and less time.

There is just one additional preparation step for this recipe. It’s important that you soak the dates for at least 20 minutes before chopping them up in the food processor.

Soaking the dates in hot water allows them to soften and makes them so much easier to process. You don’t want to skip this step because it will change the texture of the energy balls. I just bring a tea kettle to a boil and pour them over the dates. That’s all!

Kiva Health Food Cacao Powder

I absolutely love the cacao powder

from Kiva Health Food. It’s a huge bag for a super good price! PLUS I have a discount code, “SPRINKLINGOFHEALTH15OFF” which allows you to get 15% off this product!

How to Store These

These energy balls need to be kept in the refrigerator because of the dates. They will stay good in there for up to one week, or can be kept in the freezer for up to a year!

Chocolate Coconut Energy Balls

Recipe by Mary WeissCourse: Snacks, DessertDifficulty: Easy

Servings

energy balls

Prep time

minutes

Ingredients

1 cup pitted Noor Deglet dates
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/3 cup + 2 tbsp cacao powder
1/3 cup shredded coconut (plus more for coating)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt

Directions

Bring some water to a boil and pour it over the dates in a bowl. Allow them to soak for at least 20 minutes, or until soft.
Drain the dates and place them into a food processor. Blend them until they are broken down and there are no large pieces.
Add the peanut butter and maple syrup and blend until combined. Blend in the cacao powder, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and salt until a thick dough forms.
Transfer the dough from the food processor to a bowl. On a separate plate, pour some shredded coconut onto it for coating the energy balls (about 1/2 cup).
Use a cookie scoop or 1 tbsp measure to form the balls. Roll them in your hands to make the shape of a ball. Roll them around in the shredded coconut and place them in an airtight container. Store the energy balls in the fridge and enjoy!