Go Back
To make Almond Joy Energy Balls, gather these ingredients: - 1 cup pitted dates - 1 cup creamy almond butter - 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut - 1/2 cup raw almonds, roughly chopped - 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract - A pinch of fine sea salt If you like your energy balls sweeter, consider adding: - 2 tablespoons honey - 2 tablespoons maple syrup These options let you tweak the flavor just how you like it. You can swap some ingredients to fit your taste: - Use peanut butter instead of almond butter for a different flavor. - Try other nuts like walnuts or pecans in place of almonds. - Replace shredded coconut with oat flakes if you prefer. These swaps keep the recipe fun and adjustable! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by gathering your ingredients. You need pitted dates and creamy almond butter. Place them in a high-powered food processor. Pulse them until smooth. Scrape the sides down with a spatula. This ensures a creamy blend without lumps. Now, add unsweetened shredded coconut, chopped almonds, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. If you want it sweeter, drizzle in honey or maple syrup. Blend the mix again until it forms a sticky dough. If it’s too crumbly, add a bit of water or more almond butter. Blend until it holds together well. Use a tablespoon to scoop out the mixture. Roll each scoop into a ball with your hands. Make sure they are all about the same size. Place the rolled balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure they’re not touching. Finally, refrigerate them for about 30 minutes. This helps them firm up before you enjoy them. When you blend the energy balls, use a high-powered food processor. Start with the pitted dates and creamy almond butter. Pulse until smooth. Stop to scrape the sides often. This makes sure everything mixes well. If your blend is too thick, add a bit of almond butter. You want your mixture to be sticky but not too wet. If it crumbles, add one tablespoon of water. You can also add more almond butter if needed. This helps the mixture hold together better. Roll the mixture into balls once it's smooth and sticky. To present your energy balls nicely, use a decorative bowl. You can sprinkle extra shredded coconut or crushed almonds on top. This makes them look more inviting. For freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Pro Tips Perfectly Sticky Dough: If your mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water or extra almond butter until it reaches a sticky consistency that holds together well. Chill for Firmness: Refrigerating the energy balls for 30 minutes not only helps them firm up but also enhances the flavors, making them even more delicious. Customize Your Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness of your energy balls by adding honey or maple syrup according to your taste preference. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different mix-ins like dried fruits or seeds to create unique flavor profiles and add nutritional benefits. {{image_4}} You can easily change the taste of your Almond Joy Energy Balls. Adding spices gives a nice twist. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. For a tropical vibe, add a bit of lime zest. This zest brightens up the flavors. You can even mix in some espresso powder. This will give a rich coffee taste to the balls. Adjust the spices to fit your mood or season. If you want to switch things up, try different nut butters. Cashew butter works great and has a creamy texture. Sunflower seed butter is a good choice too. It adds a nutty flavor without any nuts. You can also use peanut butter for a classic taste. Each nut butter offers a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment. Boost the nutrition of your energy balls with add-ins. Adding protein powder can help you stay full longer. A scoop of your favorite protein powder blends well without changing the taste. Chia seeds are another great option. They add fiber and omega-3s. You can also toss in some ground flaxseed for added health benefits. Mix and match these add-ins to fit your dietary needs. Store your Almond Joy Energy Balls in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Always keep them in the fridge for best results. These energy balls stay fresh for up to one week in the fridge. If you notice any change in smell or texture, toss them out. For longer freshness, check the expiration date on your ingredients before making the recipe. You can freeze these energy balls for up to three months. To freeze, place them on a baking sheet first. After they harden, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Remember to label the bag with the date. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Yes, you can use dried fruit. Options like figs or apricots work well. Just remember, dried fruit may make the balls sweeter. Adjust the other sweeteners if needed. Dates add a nice texture and natural sweetness that is hard to beat. Yes, these energy balls are gluten-free. All the ingredients are gluten-free, making them safe for those with gluten allergies. Always check labels to confirm that they meet your dietary needs. Almond Joy Energy Balls keep well in the fridge for about a week. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just let them thaw in the fridge before you enjoy them. This blog post covered how to make tasty Almond Joy Energy Balls. We explored the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips. You can also try fun variations for different flavors and nutrients. In conclusion, making these energy balls is easy and fun. Enjoy the process and share with others. Feel free to personalize your balls with your favorite add-ins. With great storage tips, you'll keep them fresh longer. Try it out and enjoy your healthy snack!

Almond Joy Energy Balls

Delicious and nutritious energy balls inspired by the classic Almond Joy candy, packed with dates, almond butter, and coconut.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup pitted dates
  • 1 cup creamy almond butter
  • 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 0.5 cup raw almonds, roughly chopped
  • 0.25 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch fine sea salt
  • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions
 

  • In a high-powered food processor, add the pitted dates and creamy almond butter. Pulse the mixture until it transforms into a smooth and creamy consistency. Don’t forget to pause occasionally to scrape the sides with a spatula, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
  • Next, add the unsweetened shredded coconut, roughly chopped almonds, unsweetened cocoa powder, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of fine sea salt to the bowl. If you enjoy a sweeter energy ball, this is the time to drizzle in honey or maple syrup.
  • Blend the mixture until it begins to form a sticky dough. If you find it too crumbly, gradually incorporate a tablespoon of water or more almond butter to achieve the desired consistency that holds together well.
  • Once the mixture is well combined, use a tablespoon to scoop out portions. Roll each scoop into a bite-sized ball with your hands, ensuring they are uniformly shaped. Continue this process until all the mixture is rolled out.
  • Arrange the formed energy balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching.
  • Refrigerate the energy balls for approximately 30 minutes, allowing them to firm up perfectly before enjoying.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Keyword energy balls, healthy, snack