These rich and nutty energy balls are a deliciously wholesome snack that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the crunch of hazelnuts and the indulgence of cocoa.
Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats, they are low in saturated fat and perfect for a quick energy boost, meal prep, or satisfying a midday craving.
Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Balls
Equipment
- Small bowl (1)
- Food processor (1)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 10 medium pitted dates
- ⅓ cup hazelnuts plus 2 tablespoons for garnish
- ¼ cup chocolate hazelnut butter e.g., Justin’s
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Soak the Dates: Begin by placing all 10 pitted dates into a small mixing bowl. Pour enough hot water over them to just cover, allowing the dates to soften. Let them soak for 5 to 10 minutes. This step helps break down the dates’ natural sugars and makes them easier to blend smoothly into the mixture, resulting in a cohesive, slightly sticky texture that will hold together when rolled into balls.
- Prepare the Hazelnuts: While the dates are soaking, measure out ⅓ cup of hazelnuts. Add them to a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped. You want small, slightly uneven pieces to give the energy balls a pleasant crunch. Avoid over-processing at this stage, as finely ground nuts can make the texture too dense.
- Combine Ingredients in Food Processor: Once the dates have softened, drain them, reserving about 1 tablespoon of the soaking water. Add the softened dates to the food processor with the chopped hazelnuts. Then, add ¼ cup of chocolate hazelnut butter, 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Blend all ingredients until the mixture becomes thick, sticky, and uniform. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even mixing. The reserved soaking water can be added gradually if the mixture feels too dry, helping achieve the perfect pliable consistency.
- Chill the Mixture: Transfer the blended mixture to a small bowl and refrigerate it for at least 15 minutes. Chilling firms up the mixture, making it easier to handle and roll into balls. This step also allows the flavors of the dates, hazelnuts, and cocoa to meld beautifully, intensifying the overall taste.
- Form the Energy Balls: Once the mixture is chilled and firm, scoop approximately 1 scant tablespoon of mixture at a time. Roll each portion between the palms of your hands into a smooth, even ball. Continue until all the mixture has been shaped into 12 balls. This step is the most satisfying, as you can see the ingredients transform into perfectly bite-sized snacks.
- Garnish with Hazelnuts: Chop the remaining 2 tablespoons of hazelnuts finely. Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the top of each ball, pressing gently to adhere. This adds a delicate crunch and a visually appealing finishing touch. The garnish also enhances the nutty aroma, complementing the rich chocolate flavor.
- Refrigerate to Set: Place the finished energy balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow them to firm up completely. The balls will hold their shape better and develop a slightly firmer texture, making them perfect for snacking, meal prep, or gifting.
- Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately after chilling for a quick energy boost, or store the energy balls in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, they can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to one month. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature for a few minutes for a soft, chewy texture.
Notes
- Make sure to soak the dates in hot water; this softens them and ensures the mixture blends smoothly.
- Pulse the hazelnuts just until coarsely chopped; over-processing can create a paste rather than crunchy bits.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add the reserved soaking water gradually, one teaspoon at a time.
- Roll the balls firmly but gently; too much pressure can cause them to crumble, while too little can make them sticky.
- Garnish with extra chopped hazelnuts or cocoa powder for added texture and presentation.
- Refrigeration is key for shaping and storing—this keeps the energy balls firm and easy to handle.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Balls
The secret to these energy balls lies in texture and balance.
Soaking the dates softens their natural sugars, making them easier to blend with the nuts and nut butter.
Chilling the mixture before rolling prevents stickiness and helps the balls maintain their shape.
Using coarsely chopped hazelnuts instead of finely ground nuts adds a satisfying crunch.
Finally, a pinch of salt enhances the cocoa and nut flavors, creating a rich, well-rounded taste.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment
These energy balls are versatile and perfect for many occasions.
Serve them as a pre-workout snack to fuel your body with natural energy, or pair them with a cup of unsweetened almond milk or coffee for a mid-morning treat.
They also work well on a dessert platter alongside fresh fruit or yogurt.
For a festive twist, roll some in shredded coconut or cacao nibs to add both color and texture.
Storage Tips for Longevity and Freshness
Proper storage ensures these energy balls remain fresh and chewy.
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
If you want longer storage, freezing is a great option—place the balls in a single layer on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to one month.
Thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before eating to enjoy their soft, chewy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
Yes! Almonds, cashews, or pecans can be used as alternatives. Adjust the quantity slightly if using very oily nuts, as it may affect the texture.
2. Can I make these energy balls without chocolate hazelnut butter?
Absolutely. You can substitute with almond butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter. The flavor will vary slightly but remain delicious and rich in healthy fats.
3. How can I make the mixture less sticky?
Chill the mixture for at least 15 minutes before rolling. If it’s still sticky, lightly coat your hands with cocoa powder or a small amount of nut butter to make shaping easier.
4. Are these suitable for meal prep or on-the-go snacks?
Yes! They are ideal for meal prep because they store well in the fridge or freezer and are individually portioned for easy grab-and-go snacking.
5. Can I add extra flavorings to the balls?
Definitely. Try adding vanilla extract, a dash of cinnamon, or orange zest for a subtle twist. You can also mix in tiny chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or dried berries for added flavor and texture.
