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Make these chocolate date balls in just 10 minutes using six straightforward ingredients – no added sugar and packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats. These are a great quick and energizing snack, perfect for kids, that can be enjoyed all week long. But I have a feeling it won’t last that long.
Chocolate Balls with Dates
It’s no secret that I LOVE no-bake bliss balls! They’re these bite-sized bursts of goodness that are convenient, tasty, and just what you need for a quick energy boost anytime.
They are so easy to whip up, endlessly customizable, and most importantly always a hit with my kids. Loaded with wholesome goodness, these chocolate date balls are my go-to for preventing any hangry meltdowns.
Just like these carrot balls, apricot balls, and peanut butter bliss balls!
And here are more easy afternoon snack ideas for toddlers and kids to have on hand.
Oh you want more chocolate recipes? I got you! Here are healthy kid-friendly chocolate snacks all in one place.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
I am highlighting just the ones that need further explanation. The complete list is in the recipe card below.
- Dates – makes these energy balls perfectly sweet without any added sugar. I recommend using medjool dates as they have a richer flavor with a soft and chewy texture. Have extra? Make this banana date bread!
- Walnuts – adds a healthy dose of protein and fats. I like to purchase walnuts in bulk from Costco and keep them in the freezer. You can use whatever nuts you wish though!
- Cocoa powder – be sure to use unsweetened cocoa powder. I use Hershey’s.
- Chia seeds – adds texture and extra protein, fiber, and omega-3s. You can also use hemp seeds.
- Unsweetened shredded coconut – look for finely shredded or dessicated coconut for best results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Add the walnuts into the food processor bowl fitted with an “S” blade. Pulse until finely chopped. Make sure there are no big chunks left.
Step 2: Add the rest of the ingredients into a food processor and blend on high for 1-2 minutes. The mixture is ready when it easily sticks together as you press it between your fingers.
Step 3: The mixture is ready when it easily sticks together as you press it between your fingers.
Step 4: Use a mini cookie scoop or a tablespoon to scoop the dough and roll into bite-sized balls.
Tips for Success
- Dates – make sure that they are soft and squishy. If not, soak in warm water so they are easier to blend and the balls won’t turn out dry.
- Make sure the nuts are finely chopped as large pieces can be a choking hazard.
- If your mixture is too sticky, add more coconut, 1 teaspoon at a time.
- If the balls feel dry, pulse in water, 1 teaspoon at a time.
- Roll the date balls in extra coconut, if desired.
Substitutions
- Nut-allergy? You can use sunflower or pumpkin seeds
- No dates? Any dried fruit will work! Try with 1 cup of figs, raisins, apricots, cranberries, or mangoes.
Equipment
I highly recommend using a food processor if you have one. I am absolutely in love with this food processor. It’s the perfect size, powerful, and super versatile.
You can make this in a high-speed blender, but the texture tuns out differently and the mixture will be really hard to get out of a blender jar.
Storage
Transfer the individual bliss balls into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days for optimal freshness and texture.
You can also freeze for up to 3 months, but I have a feeling these will disappear quick!
More Chocolate Recipes
Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!
Chocolate Balls (with Dates)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup walnuts (105g)
- 10 medjool dates (200g pitted)
- 3-4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Add the walnuts into the food processor bowl fitted with an "S" blade. Pulse until finely chopped. Make sure there are no big chunks left.
- Add the rest of the ingredients into a food processor and blend on high for 1-2 minutes. The mixture is ready when it easily sticks together as you press it between your fingers.
- Use a mini cookie scoop or a tablespoon to scoop the dough and roll into bite-sized balls. Roll the balls in extra coconut, if desired.
Notes
- Dates – make sure that they are soft and squishy. If not, soak in warm water so they are easier to blend and the balls won’t turn out dry.
- Transfer the individual bliss balls into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days for optimal freshness and texture. You can also freeze for up to 3 months.
I haven’t tried making this recipe yet but plan to soon. Have you tried making these nut free? I’m wondering if they would work/taste as yummy subbing sunflower seeds or something else. Thanks!
I haven’t tried but I have a feeling it will turn out delicious!
Great recipe Min! Nice to see that you are a follower of Jesus Christ! So am I ! Blessings to you on your journey!
This is a really solid recipe for date balls. It’s easy to adapt if I need to sub a different ingredient. When I first made them the whole family loved them. I swear they taste better than chocolate brownies! I’ve returned to this recipe many times. Thank you MJ!
Yay!! Right? these are one of our all-time favs! Thanks for taking the time to share, Elise!
These are AMAZING! Going to make them on a regular basis!!! Thank you!