Description
These Cashew Date Sesame Energy Balls are packed with protein powder mixed in a chewy and chocolatey, spiced and naturally sweet date base with crunchy cashews rolled in sesame seeds.
Ingredients
Units
- 2 cups Medjool Dates, pitted ((about 16 - 18 whole dates))
- 1 1/4 cups raw cashews
- 1/2 cup pea protein powder (- or preferred protein powder)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds (- divided)
Instructions
- Combine cashews and 1 tablespoon of protein powder in a food processor. The protein powder absorbs the oils released from the nuts when pulsed so you don't end up with nut butter. Pulse until the cashews are coarsely chopped. Remove 1 cup of chopped cashews and set aside.
- Add dates, remaining protein powder, cocoa powder, cardamom, cinnamon, vanilla and sea salt to the food processor. Pulse to combine, then use a spatula to scrape down the sides. Continue to blend the mixture for a minute or two, until the mixture is sticky and blended.
- Transfer mixture to a mixing bowl and stir in reserved chopped cashews and 2 tablespoons sesame seeds. Stir or squish together with your hands until the nuts and seeds are fully incorporated into the mixture.
- Use a 2 tablespoon (medium) sized cookie scoop to measure, then roll each scoop into a smooth ball.
- Roll the balls in the remaining sesame seeds to coat. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep fresh up to a week.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to one week or freezer up to one month. To defrost, just set out at room temperature until balls have softened.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: Energy Balls