Sea Salt + Dark Chocolate Quinoa Energy Balls
One of my New Year's goals/intentions was to nix my after dinner sweets habit. It's not like I'm downing a pint of ice cream or anything, but I do like to have something sweet every night. Usually it's in the form of high-quality dark chocolate, but sometimes it's an energy ball or two, or maybe ...
One of my New Year's goals/intentions was to nix my after dinner sweets habit. It's not like I'm downing a pint of ice cream or anything, but I do like to have something sweet every night. Usually it's in the form of high-quality dark chocolate, but sometimes it's an energy ball or two, or maybe ...
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons raw cacao powder
- 1 1/2 cups medjool dates pitted (about 15)
- 1 cup walnuts (or pecans)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
- 1/4 cup quinoa crispies (learn how to make them at home)
- 1 (3 oz) bar of vegan dark chocolate (i like this va
- flaked sea salt to garnish (i use this one)
- Carbohydrate 0.191972999859857 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.462121749609686 g
- Fiber 0.0461637498521825 g
- Protein 0.119109249900407 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0438777499630027 g
- Serving Size 1 1 – 24 ball (1g)
- Sodium 21.8905624999273 mg
- Sugar 0.145809250007674 g
- Trans Fat 0.0214544499820232 g
- Calories 5 calories
Step-by-step
- To the food processor, add the dates. Process until broken apart and sticky, about 30 seconds. Add walnuts and process until ground and evenly distributed in the dates.
- With the food processor running, add the remaining ingredients (minus the crispies and chocolate bar) and process until a dough begins to form. You should be able to pinch it between your fingers and it will stay together. Pulse in the quinoa crispies.
- Form the dough into golf ball-sized truffles (you should get 20–24 balls). Place the ball on a parchment lined baking sheet and set aside.
- Melt the chocolate bar over a double boiler. Once melted, dip the top of each ball into the melted chocolate and return them to the baking sheet. Sprinkle with sea salt flakes while the chocolate is still shiny.
- Allow energy balls to chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until chocolate has set, then serve.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 5 days.
A Sweet Treat with a Healthy Twist: My Go-To Quinoa Energy Balls
As a busy working mom, finding time for myself is a constant juggling act. Between work deadlines, school pick-ups, and making sure dinner’s on the table, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I love recipes that are quick, easy, and delicious, especially those that satisfy my late-night sweet cravings without derailing my healthy lifestyle goals. These sea salt and dark chocolate quinoa energy balls are my current obsession. They’re the perfect blend of sweet and salty, rich and satisfying, and best of all, they take only minutes to whip up!
I stumbled upon this recipe a few months ago, and it has quickly become a staple in my household. My kids love them (although I have to admit, I usually sneak a few before they even get a chance!), and they're a fantastic alternative to store-bought sweets that are often packed with artificial ingredients and refined sugars. The combination of chewy dates, crunchy quinoa crispies, and rich dark chocolate is truly irresistible. The hint of sea salt balances the sweetness perfectly, preventing it from being overpowering. Plus, the addition of ingredients like walnuts and almond butter provides a welcome boost of healthy fats and protein, keeping me feeling full and energized, not sluggish and craving more sugar.
Why these energy balls are my new favorite:
- Quick and easy: No-bake recipes are my absolute favorite. These energy balls require minimal effort and come together in minutes, meaning less time in the kitchen and more time to enjoy my evening.
- Healthy ingredients: I focus on using natural, wholesome ingredients. Medjool dates provide the natural sweetness, walnuts add healthy fats, and the quinoa crispies provide a satisfying crunch. The dark chocolate is a treat, but I choose a high-quality option with a high percentage of cacao for added antioxidants.
- Versatile: These energy balls are easily customizable. Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, spices, or dried fruits to create your own unique flavor combinations. I've even added a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick!
- Perfect for snacking: These energy balls are the ideal healthy snack to keep me going throughout the day or satisfy a late-night sweet craving. They’re a great alternative to less healthy sugary snacks.
- Make-ahead friendly: Once made, these energy balls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them ideal for meal prep or busy weeks. I often make a large batch on the weekend to have on hand for snacks during the week.
Beyond the convenience and health benefits, these energy balls have become a small act of self-care in my busy life. Taking a few minutes to make something delicious and healthy for myself feels like a small victory in the midst of a hectic schedule. It’s a reminder that even amidst the chaos, I can prioritize my well-being and indulge in a little bit of sweetness without the guilt. The simple act of making these balls, and then savoring each bite, brings a sense of calm and satisfaction that's hard to find elsewhere. So, give these energy balls a try – they're more than just a snack; they're a small moment of self-care in a busy life.
