A deliciously simple snack made from dates, almond butter, nuts, and just a touch of maple syrup—perfect for when you want something sweet yet wholesome and energy-boosting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These date balls are incredibly easy to make (just a food processor needed!), come together in minutes, and store well for grab-and-go snacking. The dates provide natural sweetness, the almond butter gives a creamy richness, and the nuts add satisfying crunch and protein. They’re vegan, gluten-free, and made with a short ingredient list.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ cup walnuts
½ cup pitted dates (about 4 to 5), cut into quarters
½ cup cocoa powder
Scant ½ cup maple syrup
½ cup almond butter
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
½ cup whole almonds
Cooking spray (optional)
For the topping:
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup cocoa powder

Directions

Place the walnuts and dates in the bowl of a food processor and pulse several times until they combine into a rough crumble.
Add the cocoa powder, maple syrup, almond butter, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Pulse until the mixture becomes smooth and thick, and starts peeling away from the edge of the bowl. As soon as it does, stop the processor to avoid over-working it.
Add the whole almonds and pulse a few more times just to incorporate them — you want some pieces still a bit crunchy for texture.
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. In one small bowl place the shredded coconut, and in another bowl the cocoa powder for topping. Using a cookie scoop (about 1½ tablespoons) or by hand, portion out the mixture, roll into golf-ball-sized balls, and then roll each ball in either the shredded coconut or cocoa powder (or leave some plain as desired).
Transfer the formed balls to the prepared baking sheet and chill for a few hours or overnight until they firm up. Then store in a covered container in the fridge for several weeks (though they’ll likely be eaten much sooner!).

Servings and timing

Yields: approximately 15 to 16 date balls.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes (minimum)
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Swap the walnuts for pecans or cashews for a different nut flavor.
Use peanut butter instead of almond butter if you prefer.
Stir in 1 tablespoon of dried cranberries for a tart twist.
Roll the balls in finely chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios) instead of coconut or cocoa powder.
Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of chili powder for a spiced version.
Drizzle with melted dark chocolate after chilling for an extra treat.

Storage/Reheating

Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to several weeks. They are fine at room temperature for a few days, but if it’s warm they may soften or lose their shape. No reheating required—they’re ready to enjoy straight from the fridge.

FAQs

What type of dates should I use?

Use pitted dates (such as Medjool or Deglet Noor) that are soft and sticky. If your dates are very dry, you can soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, drain well, and then use.

Can I skip the cocoa powder in the mixture?

Yes — if you prefer a lighter, non-chocolate version you can omit the cocoa powder inside and instead roll the balls in shredded coconut or chopped nuts.

Are these balls vegan and gluten-free?

Yes. The recipe uses no animal products (assuming your almond butter is vegan) and contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients.

My food processor stalled—what did I do wrong?

It likely means either the mixture was too dry or the motor was working too long. Don’t tightly pack the dates into the cup when measuring, and stop the processor as soon as the mixture pulls away from the bowl edge. Over-processing may cause it to stick.

Can I freeze these?

Yes — you can freeze the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They’ll keep for a month or more. Let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before eating.

How many calories are in one ball?

Approximately 169 calories per serving when the recipe is divided into 8 servings. If you make more balls (e.g., 15–16), the calories per ball will be lower.

Can I make these nut-free?

Yes — replace the walnuts and whole almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, and use a seed butter (like sunflower-seed butter) in place of almond butter.

What’s the best topping option?

Shredded unsweetened coconut gives a nice texture and flavor contrast; cocoa powder gives a richer chocolate finish. You can also use finely chopped nuts or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a sweeter treat.

Will these hold together well if I bring them for travel or snacks on-the-go?

Yes—they travel well. But if it’s very warm where you are (or in transit), they may soften or lose shape, so keep them cool if possible or store in a cooler bag.

Can I make the mixture ahead and shape the balls later?

Yes— you can prepare the mixture, cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, then scoop and roll the balls later. If it firms up, just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes or give it a pulse in the processor to soften slightly.

Conclusion

These almond butter date balls are a quick, nutritious, and satisfying snack that you can whip up in no time. With just a few wholesome ingredients and minimal equipment, they’re perfect for busy days, afternoon cravings, or travel-friendly bites. Whether you’re looking for vegan, gluten-free, or just something delicious and simple, this recipe delivers. Enjoy making them and happy snacking!