Healthy Orange Chocolate Energy Balls

Name: Healthy Orange Chocolate Energy Balls
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 cup dates, pitted; 1 cup almonds (use whole or sliced almonds); 1-2 tablespoons orange zest (I like a fairly strong orange flavor, so I used 2. ); Fresh squeezed orange juice.; ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (I love Hershey's Special Dark for this. ); sliced almonds (Optional for topping. If you don't care about that, then don't use them.); sea salt or salt flakes

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These healthy orange chocolate energy balls make a great way to satisfy your sweet craving. These little energy bites are not only super healthy but also perfect portion sizes! Just what you need when a sweet craving hits.

Two orange chocolate energy balls on the table with more in containers behind them.

I've been on a bit of energy bites kick lately! But they work so amazingly for healthy snacking. I can mix up a batch and they will last me all week. When I start to crave something sweet, they're there to enjoy!

If you're looking to add more variety to your snacks, try these other flavors of energy bites! Sprouted sorghum energy bites flavored with freeze-dried raspberries and chocolate coconut bites are two of my favorites!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Made with simple ingredients. If you don't have them on hand, they are easy to find in most grocery stores.
Only one step to make these healthy chocolate energy bites. Everything goes into the food processor. It is so simple.
Chocolate + Orange. Need I say more? Seriously if you haven't tried it, they go together so well!
Healthy snack. These chocolate orange balls are packed with lots of healthy ingredients that will curb your hunger while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

Dates: A natural sweetener that's perfect for these healthy orange balls. Buy pitted dates to save yourself time from having to remove the seeds.
Almonds: Whole or sliced work just fine. I find chopped sliced almonds work great as an optional topping too.
Orange zest: Use more for a stronger orange flavor. When zesting the orange avoid the white pith which can be quite bitter.
Freshly squeezed orange juice: Use this for the consistency of your chocolate orange balls. You want it to be a little sticky, but not too sticky.
Sea salt or salt flakes: I like a little salty undertone, so I used a little sprinkle on each one. If you aren't into salt, don't use it! I find flaky salt works best.
Cocoa powder: You want to use unsweetened. I love Hershey's Special Dark for its deep chocolatey flavor.

How to Make Orange and Chocolate Energy Balls

These chocolate orange balls go together quickly and easily. Here are the main steps but you will want to check the detailed instructions in the recipe card before starting.

Add the dates and nuts to a food processor and Pulse them for about 20-30 seconds. I like to break them up first before adding in other ingredients.

Add in the remaining ingredients, minus the toppings. Pulse until all the ingredients are well combined. It didn't take me long, maybe 30-45 seconds.

Scoop balls onto a prepared baking sheet. I love OXO small scoops. I think they are a perfect size!

I like to roll mine into round balls. If you don't care, skip this step. The dough will be a little sticky. If that bothers you, wet your hands just a touch.

A woman scooping chocolate orange balls onto a baking tray.

A woman's hands rolling the chocolate orange bites until smooth.

Once they are rolled, place a sliced almond on top and a little sprinkle of salt. If it won't stick, wet the ball just a little bit on top, and the almond will stick to this.

Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes and then enjoy them and store the rest.

A woman adding almonds and salt to the chocolate energy bites.

How to Store

Store in an airtight container. Five-ingredient chocolate balls can be stored at room temperature or in the fridge for 7-10 days. Since a batch lasts me a week, I prefer to store them in the fridge.

Freezer: These healthy energy balls can also be frozen. So make a double batch! When you're ready to enjoy, take out the desired amount to eat and they thaw out at room temperature in a few short minutes. They will last up to three months.

Expert Tips and FAQs

Shape the balls into similar-sized balls. I find a cookie scoop or a tablespoon works super well to measure out the mixture.

Use flaky salt rather than fine table salt. This adds a burst of salty flavor without being overly salty.

Can you freeze chocolate energy balls?

Yes, you can! Place the entire baking tray in the freezer for 1-2 hours. Once they're frozen, transfer the balls to an airtight container to store.

Do energy balls give you energy?

Energy balls are often made using ingredients that contain high amounts of protein and healthy fats. The protein will provide a small boost of energy especially in between meals or after workouts and the healthy fats will help keep you satiated until your next meal.

Are energy balls actually healthy?

They are usually low in sugar and made with wholesome and nutritious ingredients. Like other foods, they are best eaten in moderation as a part of a healthy diet that includes a wide variety of foods.

Chocolate orange balls on the counter and in a container ready to eat.

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