Healthier sweet option
This quarantine has added a few pounds to my waistline. I am not a stress eater, but boredom does it to me. With this change in schedule and being at home so much more, I am dealing with some sort of downtime and boredom most days. I am also craving sweets big time! I have given in plenty of times, but I need to get myself back in check again. These tasty little energy bites are helping me to do this. Not only are they super healthy, but also perfect portion sizes! Just what I need when that sweet craving hits.
These are made with simple ingredients. If you don't have them on hand, they have been readily available here and I bet they are in your area as well.
Another great thing is everything goes into the food processor. It is so simple.
Scooping chocolate orange energy bites
Scoop onto a prepared baking sheet. I love OXO small scoops. I think they are the perfect size!
You don't have to smooth them out like I did, but I prefer the way it looks.
I topped each of mine with a sliced almond and a sprinkle of sea salt. I would love to use the flake salt, but dang, it is expensive!
I have already finished eating this batch I photographed, looking at these photos is reminding me I need to make another!
I love the chocolate, orange, almond and salt combo. It is just so good!
Chocolate Orange Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup dates, pitted
- 1 cup almonds I prefer whole almonds, but when I was making these, I only had about ½ cup whole. I threw in sliced almonds for the other ½ cup.
- 1-2 tablespoons orange zest I like a fairly strong orange flavor, so I used 2.
- Fresh squeezed orange juice. Use this for the consistency you are going for. You want it to be a little sticky, but not too sticky. I used about 1 tablespoon.
- sliced almonds, optional these are for topping. If you don't care about that, then don't use them.
- 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 the salt, don't use it!
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder I love Hershey's Special Dark for this.
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Add dates and nuts to food processor. Pulse them first for about 20-30 seconds. I like to break them up first before adding in other ingredients. Next add in remaining ingredients, minus the toppings. Pules until well combined. It didn't take me long, maybe 30-45 seconds. Now, scoop balls onto baking sheet. 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. Once they are rolled, if you are topping, 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, the almond will stick to this. To store, I refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes. Once they are slightly hardened, store in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Now, sit back and enjoy this goodness. You deserve it!
Marie Pullen says
Yum! Loved the Chocolate Orange Energy Bites! The flavor combo is great & they are a guilt free treat. Thank you for sharing!
admin says
Thank you Marie. I am so glad you like them!!