Chocolate Coconut Date Balls
Chocolate Coconut Date Balls are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and coconut with the natural sweetness of dates. These little bites of joy are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them perfect for a quick snack or a healthy dessert option. Whether you are looking for a post-workout boost or a sweet indulgence, these chocolate coconut date balls will satisfy your cravings without the guilt.
Reasons to Love Chocolate Coconut Date Balls
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Chocolate Coconut Date Balls. Here are just a few:
- Quick and Easy: These date balls come together in just a few minutes, making them a convenient option for busy days.
- No Baking Required: With no baking involved, you can whip these up without needing to preheat the oven.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with healthy fats from nuts and the natural sweetness from dates, these treats are not only delicious but also good for you.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like spices, seeds, or dried fruits to make them your own.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party, a picnic, or a cozy night in, these date balls are perfect for any event.
What You’ll Need
To create these delightful Chocolate Coconut Date Balls, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup raw pecans
- 1 cup raw almonds
- 12-14 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp cocoa powder
- 3-4 cranks of sea salt
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
Equipment Breakdown
Make sure you have the following equipment on hand:
- Food Processor: Essential for blending the nuts and dates into a smooth mixture.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining ingredients after processing.
- Baking Sheet: To place the date balls on while they firm up in the refrigerator.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spatula: Helpful for scraping down the sides of your food processor.
Chocolate Coconut Date Balls in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Nuts
Begin by placing the raw pecans and almonds into your food processor. Pulse until they are finely ground but not turned into flour. You want some texture here!
Step 2: Add Dates
Next, add the pitted Medjool dates to the food processor. Pulse the mixture until the dates are well incorporated and everything starts to clump together.
Step 3: Incorporate Cocoa and Coconut
Add in the unsweetened shredded coconut, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Pulse again until the mixture is combined and has a sticky consistency.
Step 4: Stir in Chocolate Chips
Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl and fold in the dark chocolate chips using a spatula.
Step 5: Form the Balls
Using your hands, take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about the size of a tablespoon. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 6: Chill to Set
Once all the balls are formed, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 7: Enjoy!
After chilling, your Chocolate Coconut Date Balls are ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
International Equivalents
If you’re making these Chocolate Coconut Date Balls outside of the United States, here are some helpful equivalents:
- 1 cup = 240 ml
- 1 tbsp = 15 ml
- 1 tsp = 5 ml
- 12-14 Medjool dates = 200-250 grams
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
When making Chocolate Coconut Date Balls, feel free to experiment with various nuts or add-ins. You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile. Additionally, adding a pinch of cinnamon or a scoop of protein powder can enhance both the taste and nutrition.
- Make sure the dates are fresh and sticky; this helps with binding the ingredients together.
- For a tropical twist, consider rolling the balls in extra shredded coconut after chilling.
Shelf Life & Storage
Chocolate Coconut Date Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
FAQ
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans and almonds?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts, such as cashews or walnuts, based on your preference.
Are these date balls vegan?
Yes, Chocolate Coconut Date Balls are entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly, making them a great option for everyone!
Can I add protein powder to the recipe?
Yes, adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder can increase the nutritional value and make these date balls an excellent post-workout snack.
How can I make these nut-free?
If you need a nut-free version, you can replace the nuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, adjusting the quantity to maintain the right consistency.
Cook This Next
If you loved these Chocolate Coconut Date Balls, consider trying these delightful recipes next:
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Coconut Date Balls are the ultimate blend of health and indulgence. With their rich chocolatey flavor and chewy texture from the dates, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Easy to make and customizable, these treats offer a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a delicious snack that you can feel good about!
Chocolate Coconut Date Balls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by placing the raw pecans and almonds into your food processor. Pulse until they are finely ground but not turned into flour. You want some texture here!
- Next, add the pitted Medjool dates to the food processor. Pulse the mixture until the dates are well incorporated and everything starts to clump together.
- Add in the unsweetened shredded coconut, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Pulse again until the mixture is combined and has a sticky consistency.
- Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl and fold in the dark chocolate chips using a spatula.
- Using your hands, take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about the size of a tablespoon. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Once all the balls are formed, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- After chilling, your Chocolate Coconut Date Balls are ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Make sure the dates are fresh and sticky; this helps with binding the ingredients together.
- For a tropical twist, consider rolling the balls in extra shredded coconut after chilling.
- These date balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
