Espresso Date Energy Balls for the Trail
No-bake espresso date energy balls are naturally sweet, slightly caffeinated, and packed with oats, nuts, and cocoa—perfect for hiking or a quick energy boost.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 15 energy balls
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted Medjool dates
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup walnuts, almonds, or nuts of choice, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons almond butter
- 2 teaspoons espresso powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cacao nibs (optional)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine dates, cocoa powder, rolled oats, chopped nuts, almond butter, espresso powder, and salt. Blend on high for 1–3 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.
- Add the cacao nibs and maple syrup, and blend for 1 more minute, or until the mixture comes together. Blend longer for a smoother texture or less for a chunkier result.
- Scoop 1 to 2 tablespoon portions and roll into balls using your hands. Place on a plate or lined baking sheet.
- Freeze the balls for at least 1 hour until firm. Transfer to an airtight container for storage.
Notes
- Omit espresso powder for a caffeine-free version.
- Add more maple syrup if the mixture is too dry or crumbly.
- Swap nuts for sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 energy ball
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
