Need a little energy? Try these Healthy Chocolate Coconut Balls.
These energy balls are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and natural sweetness from the dates. They make for a satisfying and nutritious snack that's perfect for curbing your sweet cravings without added sugar or artificial sweeteners.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 1/2 cup ground almonds
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup desiccated coconut (plus extra for rolling)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (use dark chocolate for a healthier option)
- 1-2 tablespoons water (if needed)
Instructions
1. Start by placing the pitted dates in a food processor and blending them until they form a sticky paste. If the dates are too dry, you can add a tablespoon or two of water to help with the blending.
2. Add the ground almonds, cocoa powder, desiccated coconut, and chopped walnuts to the date paste in the food processor.
3. Pulse the mixture until everything is well combined and forms a thick, dough-like texture. If it's too dry, you can add a little more water.
4. Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl and fold in the chocolate chips.
5. Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. You can roll the balls in extra desiccated coconut for added flavor and texture.
6. Place the energy balls on a plate or baking sheet and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
7. Once they're chilled, your Healthy Chocolate Coconut Energy Balls are ready to enjoy. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
These energy balls are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and natural sweetness from the dates. They make for a satisfying and nutritious snack that's perfect for curbing your sweet cravings without added sugar or artificial sweeteners.
Pairing Coffee with Healthy chocolate coconut Balls
When pairing coffee with Healthy Chocolate Coconut Balls, you'll want a coffee that complements the rich, chocolatey, and slightly sweet flavors of the balls without overpowering them. Here are a few specialty coffee options that can pair well:
1. Mocha: Mocha is a classic choice as it combines the flavors of chocolate and coffee. A well-brewed mocha with its chocolatey notes can be a perfect match for chocolate coconut balls.
2. Espresso: A shot of espresso, with its strong and bold flavor, can stand up to the sweetness of the chocolate coconut balls while enhancing the overall experience.
3. Café au Lait: If you prefer a lighter coffee, consider a café au lait. It's made with equal parts brewed coffee and steamed milk, creating a creamy, mild coffee that won't overpower the sweetness of the treats.
4. Cold Brew: If you enjoy your snacks with cold coffee, cold brew can be a great choice. Its smooth, low-acid profile can complement the chocolate and coconut without adding excessive bitterness.
5. Cappuccino: A cappuccino, with its balance of espresso, steamed milk, and foam, can provide a harmonious blend of flavors that works well with chocolatey treats.
6. Single-Origin Coffee: If you want to explore more intricate flavor profiles, consider a single-origin coffee. Look for beans from regions known for their chocolatey or nutty notes, such as beans from Colombia, Brazil, or Guatemala.
7. Flavored Coffee: Some flavored coffees like hazelnut or caramel can be a delightful pairing with chocolate coconut balls, adding an extra layer of flavor complexity.
Remember to adjust the sweetness and creaminess of your coffee to your liking, as personal preferences vary. Ultimately, the best coffee to pair with your Healthy Chocolate Coconut Balls is the one you enjoy the most, so feel free to experiment until you find your perfect match.