Espresso Energy Balls Recipe

Introduction

These Espresso Energy Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack perfect for a quick boost of energy. Packed with oats, nuts, and a hint of espresso, they combine wholesome ingredients into bite-sized powerhouses.

Ingredients

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup walnuts
• 8 pitted Medjool dates, softened
• 1 scoop vegan protein powder (can substitute with 2 tablespoons coconut flour)
• 3 tablespoons raw cacao powder (can substitute with regular cocoa powder)
• 1 teaspoon instant espresso dissolved in 1 tablespoon hot water
• 2 tablespoons almond milk
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon dried unsweetened coconut, to roll in (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the rolled oats and walnuts in a food processor and blend them until fine crumbs form.
2. Step 2: Add the softened Medjool dates and pulse again until the mixture holds together.
3. Step 3: Add the vegan protein powder, cacao powder, dissolved espresso, almond milk, and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Pulse until a dough forms around the blade.
4. Step 4: Roll the dough into about 15 one-inch balls.
5. Step 5: If desired, roll the balls in dried unsweetened coconut for added texture and flavor.
6. Step 6: Store the energy balls in the refrigerator or freezer to keep fresh.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free option, substitute walnuts with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
• Adjust the espresso powder to taste for a stronger or milder coffee flavor.
• If you prefer a sweeter snack, add a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey before mixing.
• Use different nuts like almonds or pecans to vary the texture and taste.

Storage

Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to one month. To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these energy balls without a food processor?

While a food processor makes the process easier and yields a smoother texture, you can finely chop the nuts and mash the dates by hand, then mix all ingredients thoroughly. It may take more time and effort but is still possible.

Are these energy balls suitable for vegans?

Yes, this recipe is vegan if you use vegan protein powder and almond milk. Be sure your protein powder is plant-based to keep the recipe fully vegan.

Espresso Energy Balls Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 73 reviews

• Author: Thomas
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 15 energy balls 1x
• Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free

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Description

These Espresso Energy Balls are a perfect no-bake, vegan snack packed with natural energy boosters from espresso, walnuts, and dates. Ideal for a quick pick-me-up, they combine rich cacao flavor with a hint of coffee, creating a deliciously satisfying treat that’s gluten-free and made with wholesome ingredients.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup walnuts
• 3 tablespoons raw cacao powder (or regular cocoa powder)
• 1 scoop vegan protein powder (or substitute 2 tablespoons coconut flour)
• Pinch of salt

Wet Ingredients

• 8 pitted Medjool dates, softened
• 1 teaspoon instant espresso dissolved in 1 tablespoon hot water
• 2 tablespoons almond milk

Optional

• 1 tablespoon dried unsweetened coconut, for rolling

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Instructions

1. Process Oats and Walnuts: Place the rolled oats and walnuts into a food processor and blend until they become fine crumbs. This step creates the base texture of the energy balls.
2. Add Dates: Add the softened Medjool dates to the food processor and pulse again until the mixture holds together, forming a sticky dough.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Incorporate the vegan protein powder, raw cacao powder, dissolved espresso, almond milk, and pinch of salt into the processor. Pulse until a uniform dough forms that sticks to the blade.
4. Shape the Balls: Scoop the dough and roll it into about 15 one-inch balls. This size is perfect for quick, bite-sized energy boosts.
5. Optional Coating: Roll the formed balls in dried unsweetened coconut if desired to add texture and extra flavor.
6. Store: Place the energy balls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator or freezer to keep firm and fresh.

Notes

• Soften Medjool dates by soaking them in warm water for 10 minutes if they are too hard.
• These energy balls are naturally sweetened by dates; no additional sugar is needed.
• You can substitute walnuts with almonds or pecans if preferred.
• For a caffeine-free version, omit the espresso powder and replace with an equal amount of cocoa powder.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: espresso energy balls, vegan energy balls, no bake snack, healthy snack, gluten free snack, vegan protein bites, cacao energy balls