Energy Bites
Even before I started eating a plant-based diet, nut and protein bars were a staple in my pantry, my purse, the car, my office desk - anywhere I spent any longer periods of time. I kept them there for a quick energy boost, or to help get me to the next meal before the hunger-grump emerged. After switching to veganism, these quick snacks became an even more important part of my daily life as snacking options and quick meals outside of the house became less available.
And then one day it hit me! Why don’t I just make my own energy boosting snacks? Besides the obvious cost savings, making your own snacks assures that you know exactly what goes into them, and you can play around with the recipe to create a variety of wonderful flavours. This recipe is for one of my favourite energy balls. It’s very simple to make, full of nutritious seeds and nuts, tastes almost like a chocolate dessert, and only one ball is enough to get you through any hunger rut. After trying these, you may never want to buy a nut or an energy bar again.

Energy Bites
Yield
Prep time
Total time:
How it's made
1 cup walnuts |
Place in a food processor and process until all ingredients are integrated (about 2 minutes on high). The resulting mixture should be sticky enough to be able to form balls by hand. If too dry, add more coconut oil. Place in a large bowl. |
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⅓ cup chia seeds |
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⅓ cup ground flax seeds |
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⅓ cup hemp hearts |
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¼ cup chocolate chips |
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¼ cup coconut flakes |
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¼ cup pumpkin seeds |
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¼ cup sunflower seeds |
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1 cup dates |
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1 - 2 tbsp coconut oil, as needed |
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Add more coconut, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds for crunch: | ||
1 tbsp coconut flakes |
Add to the mixture in the bowl and combine with hands. Form balls, about 1 inch in diameter. |
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1 tbsp pumpkin seeds |
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1 tbsp sunflower seeds |
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½ cup coconut flakes |
Roll each ball in the coconut flakes until coated. |