CHOCOLATE ORANGE DATE BALLS
These Chocolate Orange Date Balls combine soft Medjool dates with rich cocoa powder and vibrant orange zest for a decadent yet wholesome snack. The Creamy almond butter binds chopped nuts into the mixture, adding a satisfying crunch and healthy fats. Each bite of chocolate orange date balls delivers a harmonious blend of natural sweetness from the dates, bittersweet chocolate depth and citrusy brightness that feels indulgent but remains dairy-free, vegan and gluten-free. These chocolate orange date balls are ready in ten minutes with no cooking required, they’re ideal for lunchboxes, afternoon pick‑me‑ups or as a post‑dinner treat. These chocolate orange date balls are packed with fibre, antioxidants and plant-based protein, which offer sustained energy and a flavourful way to curb sugar cravings without refined sweeteners.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Snack
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Middle Eastern
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No‑Cook
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Picnic, Potluck, Party
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Vegetarian, Wheat / Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free, Raw, Quick & Easy, Kid Friendly
DISH TYPE
Candy
INGREDIENTS
- 2 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon finely grated orange zest
- 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts or almonds
- 1 teaspoon almond butter
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 226.0 kilocalories
- Fat: 8.5 grams
- Saturated Fat: 1.1 grams
- Carbohydrate: 41.4 grams
- Sugar: 32.4 grams
- Sodium: 2.2 milligrams
- Fibre: 6.3 grams
- Protein: 4.1 grams
- Calcium: 64.5 milligrams
- Iron: 1.6 milligrams
- Potassium: 489.5 milligrams
PREPARATION
- Soften The Dates: Place 2 pitted Medjool dates in a small bowl. If they’re firm, soak in warm water for 5 minutes, then drain thoroughly to ensure they blend smoothly.
- Blend Base Ingredients: In a mini food processor or blender, combine the dates, 1 tablespoon cocoa powder and ½ teaspoon orange zest. Pulse until the mixture forms a sticky and uniform paste.
- Add Nuts And Butter: Transfer the paste to a bowl. Stir in 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts (or almonds) and 1 teaspoon almond butter, folding gently to distribute the nuts without over-mashing.
- Form The Ball: Scoop the mixture with a teaspoon and roll between your palms into a 3 cm sphere, pressing firmly so it holds together.
- Chill To Set: Place the ball on a parchment-lined plate and refrigerate for 10 minutes. This firms up the texture and enhances flavour melding.
- Serve: Remove from the fridge and enjoy immediately or store as directed below.
PREP TIME
8 minutes
COOKING TIME
0 minutes
TIPS
These tips enhance the quality of Chocolate Orange Date Balls:
- Use Soft Dates: Choosing very soft, plump Medjools ensures a smooth paste without bits.
- Dry Thoroughly: After soaking, pat dates completely dry to prevent a watery mix.
- Even Zesting: Grate only the coloured part of the orange peel to avoid bitterness from the pith.
- Chop Nuts Finely: Smaller nut pieces distribute more evenly and make rolling easier.
- Prevent Sticking: Lightly oil your hands or dampen them to roll the ball smoothly.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the blended paste, and add a few drops of maple syrup if you prefer extra sweetness.
VARIATIONS
- Coconut Coating Roll the set ball in desiccated coconut for a tropical twist.
- Spiced Twist Stir in ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon or a pinch of chilli powder for warmth or heat.
- Berry Burst Mix in 1 tablespoon finely chopped dried cranberries for tart contrast.
- Protein Boost Add 1 teaspoon plant-based protein powder to the blend for extra protein.
- Seed Sprinkle Coat the ball in chia or flax seeds for added fibre and texture.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to five days. Keep chilled to maintain firmness.
- Freezer: Place on a tray to freeze for 15 minutes, then transfer to a sealed bag for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge for 5 minutes before serving.