Almond Coconut Date Balls

As I near the end of my pregnancy I have been trying to come up with ideas on how to incorporate more dates into my diet – they say is it supposed to help prep for birth. Who knows if it really does anything, but what I do know is that these Almond Coconut Date Balls are going to be in my regular rotation…pregnant or not. They are a healthier dessert or sweet snack that pack in some sneaky protein!

Here’s what you need

Ingredients

• dates
• old fashioned oats
• shredded coconut
• almond butter
• agave – or sub maple syrup
• vanilla extract
• vanilla protein powder
• semi-sweet chocolate chips
• coconut oil

Equipment

• food processor

Steps

Step 1: Blend it Up

The first thing we need to do is get the dough formed. You want to do this in a food processor – it will break up the dates nicely.

Add the dates, oats, coconut, almond butter, agave, vanilla extract & protein powder to a food processor. Blend until a ball of dough forms – this will take a couple minutes, so don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t form right away. Scrape down the sides as needed.

Step 2: Roll it Up

To make even balls, you can use a cookie scoop. But I usually just eyeball it. Break the dough in half and then break each half into 6 pieces.

Once you have your pieces broken up, roll each one into a ball. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place each ball on the baking sheet.

Pop the date balls into the freezer for 10 minutes so they can firm up.

Step 3: Dip

When the balls are almost done freezing, add the chocolate chips & coconut oil to a bowl. Pop it in the microwave for 1 minute. Remove from the microwave and stir until the chocolate is melted and smooth – you can pop it back in the microwave if needed.

Use a fork to dip each ball into the chocolate until coated, allowing the excess to drip off. Place back on the baking sheet. Once they are all coated sprinkle with some more shredded coconut and place in the freezer for 20 minutes.

Once the chocolate is firmed up you can enjoy your little treats! These are so freaking tasty, you won’t need any other dessert. I promise!

Tips & Tricks

I like to store these in the fridge – these don’t last long in my house, but they stay firm in the fridge.

Some other topping ideas: flakey salt or crushed almonds!

If you don’t want to use protein powder you can add another 1/3 cup of oats.