Strawberries and Cream Energy Balls Recipe
These Strawberries and Cream Energy Balls are a delicious and nutritious no-bake snack packed with the natural sweetness of Medjool dates, creamy cashew butter, and vibrant freeze-dried strawberries. Perfect for a quick energy boost, these bite-sized treats combine wholesome ingredients like raw cashews, chia or hemp seeds, and a hint of vanilla for a satisfying and wholesome snack that’s both gluten-free and vegan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups raw cashews
- 6 pitted Medjool dates
- 3/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, divided (optional, see Notes)
- 1 tbsp hemp seeds or chia seeds
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/3 cup freeze-dried strawberries
Wet Ingredients
- 1/3 cup creamy cashew butter
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Chop and Blend Nuts: Place the raw cashews into a blender and pulse until they are finely chopped but not turned into powder, creating a coarse nut texture.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: To the chopped cashews, add the pitted Medjool dates, 1/4 cup of the shredded coconut, cashew butter, pure maple syrup, hemp or chia seeds, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Blend until the mixture comes together and begins to clump, indicating the dates and nut butter are binding the ingredients well.
- Incorporate Strawberries: Add the freeze-dried strawberries to the mixture. Continue blending just until the strawberries are evenly dispersed throughout. Stop periodically to scrape down the sides and mix manually if needed to ensure an even distribution without over-processing.
- Form the Balls: Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out 24 equal amounts and roll each into a smooth ball using your hands.
- Coat with Coconut: Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded coconut on a plate. Roll each energy ball in the coconut to coat evenly, adding texture and flavor to the outside.
- Chill to Set: Place the coated energy balls in the refrigerator and chill for about 30 minutes, allowing them to firm up and hold their shape for easy handling and snacking.
Notes
- If you prefer, you can omit the shredded coconut for a lower-sugar variation or replace it with finely chopped nuts for added crunch.
- These energy balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or frozen for up to three months.
- Use either hemp or chia seeds according to your preference; both add nutritional benefits and a slight texture enhancement.
- Freeze-dried strawberries provide intense flavor without moisture; fresh strawberries are not recommended as they will alter the texture.
