5-Minute Oatmeal and Date Vegan Energy Balls

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5-Minute Oatmeal and Date Vegan Energy Balls

Description:
These 5-minute oatmeal and date energy balls are a quick, delicious, and healthy treat. Made with just two simple ingredients—rolled oats and dates—this no-bake dessert is naturally sweetened, vegan, and packed with energy. Perfect for a mid-day snack or a pre-workout bite, these energy balls are gluten-free and provide a great source of fiber, healthy carbs, and natural sugars from dates. With the added benefit of being so simple to prepare, they are perfect for anyone looking for a fast, nutritious dessert or snack.

Ingredients:

  • 150g (5 oz) pitted dates

  • 80g (2.8 oz) rolled oats

  • Optional: nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips for rolling or adding to the mixture

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dates: Remove the pits from the dates and place them in a food processor or blender. Blend until they form a sticky paste. If the dates are too dry, you can soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before blending.

  2. Add the Oats: Add the rolled oats to the date paste in the food processor and pulse until the oats are well combined with the dates, forming a dough-like consistency.

  3. Shape the Balls: Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. You can make them as large or small as you like.

  4. Optional Coating: If desired, roll the energy balls in crushed nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture. This step is optional but adds a nice crunch and flavor.

  5. Serve or Store: Place the energy balls in paper cups or on a plate and refrigerate them for about 30 minutes to firm up. You can enjoy them immediately or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Notes:

  • Dates: Ensure that the dates are soft and sticky. If using dry dates, soaking them in warm water will help them blend better.

  • Oats: Use rolled oats for the best texture. If you want a smoother consistency, you can pulse the oats a bit longer in the food processor.

  • Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative with mix-ins like shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Tips:

  • Sweetness: Dates are naturally sweet, but if you want a sweeter treat, you can add a teaspoon of maple syrup or agave nectar.

  • Storage: These energy balls are great for meal prepping! Keep them in the fridge for up to a week for a quick grab-and-go snack.

  • Vegan Chocolate Option: For a more indulgent version, roll the balls in melted vegan chocolate or sprinkle cocoa powder on top.

Servings:

  • This recipe makes about 8-10 energy balls, depending on the size.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 10 balls):

  • Calories: 80 kcal

  • Carbs: 20g

  • Protein: 1g

  • Fat: 0g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sugar: 14g (naturally from dates)

Benefits:

  • Natural Energy: Dates provide natural sugars and quick energy, making these energy balls great for a pre-workout snack.

  • High in Fiber: The combination of oats and dates provides a good amount of fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you fuller longer.

  • No Added Sugar: These energy balls are naturally sweetened with dates, making them a great alternative to sugary snacks or desserts.

  • Vegan and Gluten-Free: This recipe is suitable for both vegan and gluten-free diets, making it accessible for most dietary preferences.

Q&A for Recipe:

  • Q: Can I use other types of oats for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use quick oats or steel-cut oats, but rolled oats provide the best texture for these energy balls.

  • Q: Can I make these without a food processor? A: If you don’t have a food processor, you can finely chop the dates and mix them with the oats by hand. It may take a bit longer, but the result will still be delicious!

  • Q: Can I freeze these energy balls? A: Yes, these energy balls freeze well! Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

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