For an energy boost during your favorite activities! I love bringing energy balls along in hot, humid weather, when I have less of an appetite. Adding protein helps keep me going and replaces the usual ham sandwich.
At a glance
- Prep time: 15 minutes (+ 20 minutes soaking)
- Cook time: none
- Servings: about 15 balls, depending on size
- Protein: 4 g per ball
- Nutritional value: about 14 g of carbohydrates, 5 g of fat and 2 g of fiber per ball (basic version, approximate values)
Ingredients
- 185 ml (3/4 cup) pitted dried dates
- 85 ml (1/3 cup) boiling water
- 250 ml (1 cup) quick-cooking rolled oats
- 1 scoop of Zenit organic chocolate plant-based protein
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) pumpkin seeds or chopped almonds
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) dried cranberries
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) dark chocolate chips
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) almond butter (or another nut or seed butter)
Instructions
- Place the dates and boiling water in the blender container. Cover and let sit for 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a bowl, mix the oats, protein, seeds or nuts, cranberries and chocolate. Set aside.
- Blend the dates until smooth, then add the almond butter and mix well.
- Pour the purée over the dry ingredients and mix well, using your hands if needed.
- Shape into balls of your desired size. Refrigerate.
Danielle’s tip
For a nut-free version, use pumpkin seeds and sunflower seed butter. No time to cook? Check out our Zenit energy balls.
Frequently asked questions
How should homemade energy balls be stored?
They’ll keep for about a week in an airtight container in the refrigerator, or up to 3 months in the freezer.
When should you eat energy balls?
Before or during a workout, or as a snack when hunger strikes.
Danielle Dubois, Dt.P., nutritionist
Member of the Ordre des diététistes-nutritionnistes du Québec
Founder of Zenit Nutrition