Double Chocolate Energy Bites
Nothing like having no-bake treats on hand for pre/post-workout fuel or simply something to satisfy a sweet tooth. Make way for these coming in contact with your freezer stash. It takes all of roughly ten minutes to combine these simple, nutrient-dense ingredients into grab-n-go balls of energy. Additionally, cacao has the major power of depleting cortisol, the stress-hormone- hello, where were these during finals?! I recommend stocking up on the mere eight, versatile ingredients because these are bound to be devoured well before a week has flown by!
Ingredients:
1 cup medjool dates, pitted
1/2 cup pecans/walnuts
1/2 cup sweet potato purée
2/3 cup cacao powder
1.5-2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tbsp coconut oil, melted + cooled
1/3+ cup chocolate chips, ideally crushed
sea salt, for topping
Directions:
In a food processor, briefly pulse the dates and nuts, until lightly chopped
Add the sweet potato purée, cacao powder, maple syrup, and melted coconut oil, then blend again until smooth.
Either dampen your hands or use two damp spoons to form the batter into balls, sized as desired. As you go, place on a freezer-safe tray or baking sheet.
When all the batter has been used, roll each ball in the (crushed) chocolate chips.
Store in the freezer for about 20 minutes, or until firm.
Sprinkle with sea salt and enjoy right away!
Store leftovers, if any, in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.
Notes:
For homemade sweet potato purée, simply cook a sweet potato in boiling water for 4-5 minutes. Otherwise, microwave it for 3-4 minutes. Either way, once soft, peel the skin (can save for later) and mash with a fork!
If the dates are hard, particularly if stored in the fridge, place in warm water for 5-10 minutes before blending to prevent chunks.
Placing in the freezer v.s. fridge will affect the consistency so do what tastes best to you, softer or chewier!
