Coconut Date Energy Balls
Coconut Date Energy Balls are a great sweet & nutty snack that offers protein, fiber, and fats to offer your child a balanced and nutritious snack. The bites also include a variety of nutrients from ingredients like sunflower seeds, shredded coconut, ground flax/chia, and dried apricots including brain-healthy omega-3s, magnesium, B vitamins, zinc, and iron.
One great thing about these protein bites is that it is highly customizable! You can add a variety of ingredients including fruit, nuts, and seeds according to your child’s sensory preferences and nutritional needs.
Ever notice your child has behaviors mid-morning or mid-afternoon? It could be a blood sugar drop! These energy balls can be a great snack to help balance blood sugars and keep your child satiated.
Ingredients
1 cup sunflower seeds or other nut/seed of choice
1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
2 cups soft Medjool dates (pitted) - about 10
1/4 cup dried apricots (or other unsweetened dried fruit)
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 tbsp ground flax or chia seeds
1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
2 scoops collagen powder or other protein powder
Note: Most ingredients above are linked to items at Thrive Market for your convenience. Sign up with this link to get 30% off your first order.
Materials
A note on ingredient quality: If possible, choose ingredients that are organic and non-GMO. Stores such as Sprouts, Natural Grocers, Whole Foods, and other health food stores can help finding higher-quality ingredients. If access to higher quality ingredients isn't an option for you, choose the best option that is available to you locally.
Directions
In a large food processor with an “S” blade, process nuts until a fine meal, then add coconut shreds and collagen/protein powder and process again to mix thoroughly.
Add in the dates, coconut oil, apricots, sea salt, and process again until a uniform and sticky dough is made.
Scoop in tablespoon measurements and place them on a cookie sheet with unbleached parchment paper. Top or roll in unsweetened shredded coconut, course sea salt, or topping of your choice
Place in the refrigerator or freezer until chilled. Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 ball | Makes 16 Servings
Calories: 140 | Protein: 4 grams | Fiber: 3 grams | Carbohydrates: 15 grams | Fat: 7 grams | Sugars: 11 grams
