Lately I've had a big sweet tooth by the time the afternoon rolls around. Maybe it's the lack of sleep that leaves me needing an afternoon jolt of energy, or the fact that I'm chasing around my busy little boy, but either way this recipe is the solution. So instead of reaching for coffee, chocolate or processed sugar to fuel your body when your energy is low, try these little bites out. They are the perfect snack for a pre- or post-workout, they cozy up nicely beside a cup of tea or simple enjoyed on their own as an after dinner treat. But I guarantee you won't really need a reason to grab one of these after you try them out. They taste so much like Almond Joy chocolate bars that it's hard to wrap your mind around the fact that they are healthy. Yeah.... that's right. A chocolate bar imposter that is actually good for you! Need any more convincing? They take no time to make and they will store in an airtight container in the fridge for several weeks...... but let's be honest. They probably won't last several days. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pitted dates
- 2 cups almonds
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 3/4 cup shredded coconut
- pinch of sea salt
- 1/2 tsp almond or vanilla extract
- 1-2 Tbsp coconut milk (can substitute for almond milk or regular)
- Put 1/2 cup of coconut flakes into the food processor to break up the flakes a little. Set aside.
- Place dates in the food processor and process until it gathers into a ball. Break apart ball with hands.
- Add in almonds, cocoa powder, 1/4 cup of coconut flakes and sea salt and process for 1-2 minutes. Add extract and 1 Tbsp of coconut milk.
- Process until mixture forms a ball. Add in 1 more tablespoon of coconut milk if it isn't sticking together.
- Roll into small balls and then roll each ball into remaining coconut.
