Snacks · Easy
No-Bake Cacao Energy Balls
The 3pm slump is real, and it’s usually when the biscuit tin starts calling. These little energy balls are rich, chocolatey and satisfying, and a batch takes 15 minutes on a Sunday to see you through the week.
Ingredients
- 100g rolled oats
- 150g pitted medjool dates (about 8)
- 2 tbsp cacao powder
- 3 tbsp nut butter (almond or peanut)
- A pinch of salt
- 1–2 tbsp water, if needed
- Optional: desiccated coconut or extra cacao, for rolling
Method
- Blitz the oats in a food processor for a few seconds until roughly ground.
- Add the dates, cacao powder, nut butter and salt, and blend until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough. Add a splash of water if it’s too crumbly.
- Using damp hands, roll into 12 even balls, about a heaped tablespoon each.
- Roll in coconut or cacao if you like, then chill for 20 minutes to firm up.
Tips
- Storage: keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to a month.
- Dates too firm? Soak them in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain well before blending.
- Make them yours: add a tablespoon of chia seeds, a little orange zest or a pinch of cinnamon.
Calories are an approximate guide per serving and will vary with the exact ingredients you use. Check labels if you’re cooking for allergies or intolerances.