We are back with yet another energy ball recipe, only this time it is for vegans because it has oats. The oats not only act as a binding agent, just like the dates, but they also help to fill you up. They are naturally rich in protein, fiber, healthy fats, iron, zinc, and other vitamins and minerals. Oats are one of the best sources of beta-glucans, a soluble fiber that may help lower cholesterol, especially bad LDL cholesterol. That soluble fiber also slows digestion, increases feelings of fullness, and may increase bile acid production. It may also help to reduce blood sugar and insulin after a carb-heavy meal.
This recipe is just another way to show you that snacking can be healthy. You just have to use the right ingredients that provide valuable nutrition and sustenance. The problem with many store bought snacks, such as chips, cookies, or other packaged goods, is that they do not fill you up. You can eat an entire bag of chips and still feel hungry, but that is also because they contain ingredients that keep you coming back for more. These raspberry energy balls are completely sugar- and gluten-free, making them a great snack to power you up between meals.
From this recipe, you should get about 20 balls, but it depends how big you make them. Ideally, roll them into about the size of a tablespoon or smaller. When you place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper, make sure to space them out in order to prevent them from sticking together. After freezing them for about 30 minutes, remove them and roll in the desiccated coconut before placing them back in the freezer to harden. Enjoy when ready!
- Prep Time:15m
- Total Time:15m
- Serves: 20 servings
- Yield: 20 balls
- Category: Appetizers & Snacks, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 c dates, pitted and soaked in water for one hour
- 1/2 c oats
- 1/2 c raspberries
- 1/4 c raw cashew butter
- 1 tbsp. chia seeds
- 1/4 c desiccated coconut (for rolling)
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients (except the coconut) to a food processor and blend until you achieve a sticky, dough-like mixture. You may need to stop blending, scrape down the sides, and continue blending to make sure the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Once the mixture is sticky, stop blending and use your hands to form small balls with your hands. You can wet your hands with cold water to help prevent sticking.
- Place the balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 30 minutes.
- Place the desiccated coconut on a plate and remove the energy balls from the freezer. Roll the balls in the coconut and then place back in the freezer until firm.
- Remove from the freezer and enjoy when ready. Store leftover energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a week.
