Name: Coconut Lemon Energy Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Healthy Snack
Ingredients: 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted; 1 cup shredded coconut; 3/4 cup raw almonds; 1 tablespoon chia seeds; Pinch of sea salt; 1 tablespoon lemon zest (fresh); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Introduction

Coconut Lemon Energy Balls are a refreshing and nutritious snack packed with natural sweetness and a zesty twist. These no-bake bites are perfect for a quick energy boost and easy to make with wholesome ingredients.

There is a pyramid of small round sweet balls covered in white shredded coconut on a white plate with a brown rim. The balls are light yellow underneath the coconut flakes showing. Around the base of the pyramid, there are some small yellow crumbs. On the plate near the balls, two bright yellow lemon wedges add color, while in the blurred background a whole yellow lemon sits against the white marbled surface. The image is sharp and well-lit, focusing on the texture of the coconut and the smoothness of the lemon slices. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1 cup shredded coconut
3/4 cup raw almonds
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon lemon zest (fresh)
2 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

Step 1: Pit the Medjool dates and soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes if they are not very soft. This will help them blend smoothly.
Step 2: In a food processor, pulse the raw almonds and chia seeds until they break down into small crumbs but not a fine powder. This maintains a pleasant texture.
Step 3: Add the softened dates, shredded coconut, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt to the food processor. Blend all ingredients together until the mixture clings together when pressed.
Step 4: Using your hands, scoop out small amounts of the mixture and roll into golf ball-sized rounds. If the mixture feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 10 minutes before rolling.
Step 5: Place the formed energy balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before enjoying.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, toast the almonds lightly before pulsing.
Swap lemon zest and juice with orange for a different citrus flavor.
Add a tablespoon of shredded dark chocolate or cacao nibs for a hint of chocolate.
If you prefer a sweeter bite, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the mixture.

Storage

Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. When ready to eat, allow frozen balls to thaw for 10 minutes at room temperature or enjoy chilled directly from the fridge.

How to Serve

A small pile of round balls covered in white shredded coconut sits in the middle of a white plate with a slight brown edge. The balls are light yellow underneath the coconut flakes, and the pile is about three layers high, with one ball on top, three in the middle, and the rest forming the base. Around the plate are small yellow flakes and two lemon wedges, one placed near the front right side and the other slightly blurred in the background, along with a whole lemon. The plate rests on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Yes, you can substitute almonds with walnuts, cashews, or pecans. Just pulse them similarly to maintain texture.

Are these energy balls suitable for a vegan diet?

Absolutely. All ingredients are plant-based, making these energy balls a great vegan snack option.