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No-Bake Almond Butter Energy Balls (Naturally Sweetened) - Quick, Wholesome, and Tasty

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup pitted Medjool dates (about 10–12), soft and sticky
  • 1/2 cup almond butter (natural, creamy, well-stirred)
  • 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (use certified gluten-free if needed)
  • 2–3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed or chia seeds
  • 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs (optional but delicious)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of fine sea salt
  • 1–3 tablespoons water or almond milk, as needed for texture

Method
 

  1. Prep the dates: If your dates feel dry, soak them in hot water for 5–10 minutes, then drain well. This step helps them blend smoothly and bind the mixture.
  2. Pulse oats and seeds: In a food processor, pulse 1 cup of the oats with the flaxseed until coarse and sandy. Leave 1/2 cup of oats whole for texture.
  3. Add the sticky stuff: Add dates, almond butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pulse until the mixture starts to clump. Scrape the sides as needed.
  4. Sweeten and adjust: Add maple syrup or honey, then pulse again. If the mixture seems dry, add water or almond milk 1 tablespoon at a time until it holds when pressed.
  5. Stir in texture: Transfer to a bowl. Fold in the remaining 1/2 cup oats and the chocolate chips or cacao nibs. This keeps some chew and crunch.
  6. Roll the balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon per ball and roll between your palms. If sticky, lightly dampen your hands or chill the mixture for 10 minutes first.
  7. Optional finish: Roll in finely chopped almonds, shredded coconut, or crushed freeze-dried berries for a fun coating.
  8. Enjoy or chill: They’re ready to eat right away. For a firmer texture, chill for 20–30 minutes.