ALMOND DATE BALLS
Almond Date Balls are a delightful and energy-boosting snack that’s perfect for busy days or a sweet treat after a meal. Packed with the natural sweetness of Medjool dates and the nutty richness of almond butter, these unbaked bites are easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Shredded coconut adds a tropical twist while also boosting the texture and fibre content. This snack is naturally vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of dietary preferences. With just three wholesome ingredients, these balls come together in minutes and require no baking or complicated steps. Ideal for kids, adults or anyone looking to reduce processed sugar in their diet, they’re a perfect addition to lunchboxes, picnics or afternoon pick-me-ups. Easy to store and carry, they’re as practical as they are delicious.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Snack
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Picnic, Back to School, Summer, Family Reunion, Mother’s Day, Potluck, Party
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Vegetarian, Dairy-Free, Wheat / Gluten-Free, High Fibre, Low/No Sugar, Quick & Easy, Raw
DISH TYPE
Edible Gifts
INGREDIENTS
The ingredients required for Almond Date Balls are listed below:
- 2 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- 1 tbsp shredded coconut
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 266.3 kcal
- Fat: 12.4 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.7 g
- Carbohydrate: 40.3 g
- Sugar: 33 g
- Sodium: 3.6 mg
- Fiber: 5.7 g
- Protein: 4.6 g
- Calcium: 87.6 mg
- Iron: 1.2 mg
- Potassium: 482.6 mg
PREPARATION
- Prepare The Dates: Remove the pits from the Medjool dates and roughly chop them.
- Mash And Mix: In a small bowl, combine chopped dates and 1 tablespoon of almond butter. Mash with a fork until the mixture is sticky and well combined.
- Form The Balls: Using your hands, roll the mixture into a ball, pressing firmly so it holds together.
- Coat With Coconut: Roll the ball in shredded coconut until it is evenly coated.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy as a snack or energy bite at any time of day.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
None
TIPS
These tips can help you make a better Almond Date Balls:
- Sticky Tip: If the dates are little dry, soak them in warm water for 5 minutes before mashing.
- No-Fuss Mixing: A mini food processor can speed up the process of combining dates and almond butter.
- Texture Control: For a smoother texture, blend the dates and almond butter more thoroughly; for a chunkier texture, keep the mixture lightly mashed.
- Perfect Shape: Lightly dampen your hands to prevent sticking when rolling the balls.
- Extra Flavour: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla extract for a subtle twist.
VARIATIONS
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Protein Boost: Stir in a teaspoon of vegan protein powder for an added protein hit.
- Sweet And Spicy: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for a warming flavour.
- Chocolate Lover: Roll the ball in cocoa powder instead of coconut for a chocolatey treat.
- Superfood Add-Ins: Add chia or flax seeds for extra omega-3 fatty acids and fibre.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Short-Term Storage: Store almond date balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Place balls on a tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
- Portable Snack: Perfect for lunchboxes, gym bags or on-the-go snacks, pack in a small container or wrap individually in parchment paper.
- Batch Prep: Double or triple the recipe and freeze the extras for quick and convenient snacks anytime.