Hazelnut Mocha Energy Bites
Indulgent yet nourishing, these Hazelnut Mocha Energy Bites are grain-free, vegan, and packed with protein and fiber. Ready in just 10 minutes without baking, they make the perfect snack or meal-prep treat for coffee lovers seeking a healthy energy boost.
Equipment
- 1 Food Processor (or mixing bowl and spoon for manual mixing)
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 Measuring Spoons Set
- 1 mixing spoon or spatula
- 1 Plate or Tray (for rolling bites)
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups hazelnut meal*
- ¼ cup ground flaxseed
- ¼ cup cacao powder
- 3 tbsp coffee concentrate*
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp nut butter e.g., almond or cashew
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients for Mixing: Before starting, gather all your ingredients and equipment. Measuring everything precisely ensures a smooth process and consistent results. This includes the hazelnut meal, ground flaxseed, cacao powder, coffee concentrate, maple syrup, nut butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Having everything ready prevents interruptions and makes the preparation enjoyable.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Add hazelnut meal, ground flaxseed, and cacao powder to a food processor or a large mixing bowl. These dry ingredients form the foundation of your energy bites, contributing structure, flavor, and essential nutrients. Hazelnut meal offers healthy fats and a natural nutty aroma, flaxseed adds fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, and cacao powder gives a rich chocolate flavor and antioxidant benefits. Mix until evenly combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate coffee concentrate, maple syrup, nut butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the mixture. These wet ingredients add moisture, sweetness, binding power, and depth of flavor. Coffee concentrate intensifies the mocha taste, maple syrup adds natural sweetness, nut butter enhances creaminess and protein content, and vanilla extract enriches the overall aroma. Mix thoroughly to blend flavors evenly.
- Blend Into a Uniform Dough: If using a food processor, pulse the mixture until it forms a moist, pliable dough. Avoid over-blending so the texture remains slightly coarse for a satisfying chew. If mixing by hand, use a sturdy spoon or spatula to fold the mixture until fully combined. The dough should hold together without being overly sticky — moist but firm enough to roll into balls easily.
- Test Dough Consistency: Take a small portion of the dough and press it between your fingers. If it crumbles or feels too dry, add a teaspoon of coffee concentrate or nut butter at a time until the mixture binds well. This step ensures your energy bites maintain their shape without falling apart.
- Shape Energy Bites: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it gently between your palms to form smooth, round balls. Repeat until all the mixture is shaped. Evenly sized bites make for better presentation and consistent texture. This process is both satisfying and fun, transforming the dough into convenient snack portions.
- Optional Coating or Toppings: For added texture and flavor, roll the energy bites in cacao powder, finely chopped hazelnuts, shredded coconut, or cocoa nibs. This step is optional but enhances the appearance and eating experience. Choose coatings that complement the mocha flavor for the best results.
- Chill for Firmness: Arrange the shaped bites on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes. Chilling firms them up, making them easier to handle and enhancing their texture. This also allows the flavors to blend, resulting in a richer taste.
- Store Properly: Place the energy bites in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 7 days or freeze for up to one month. If freezing, layer parchment paper between bites to prevent sticking. When ready to eat, thaw briefly at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
- Enjoy Mindfully: Hazelnut Mocha Energy Bites are perfect as a quick snack, pre-workout boost, or healthy dessert. Pair with coffee, tea, fresh fruit, or a plant-based yogurt for a satisfying treat. They’re ideal for meal prep, travel snacks, or simply a wholesome indulgence anytime.
Notes
- Use fresh hazelnut meal for the best flavor and texture. Toasting it briefly enhances its nutty aroma.
- Adjust coffee concentrate strength to your taste preference; stronger coffee adds a richer mocha flavor.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add an extra teaspoon of coffee concentrate or nut butter.
- For a sweeter result, increase maple syrup slightly.
- Rolling bites in cacao powder or finely chopped hazelnuts adds extra texture and flavor.
