Date Balls

I’m sharing Colleen Quigley’s energy-packed Date Balls, a simple yet powerful snack I often whip up for pre- or post-workout fuel. They’re sweet, nutrient-rich, and freezer-friendly—perfect when I need a portable boost.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how customizable this recipe is—I can tweak it based on what’s in my pantry without worrying about failing. With wholesome ingredients like dates, nut butter, chia seeds, protein powder, and even a hint of caffeine from coffee grounds, it’s my go-to energy bite that keeps me going through workouts or long training days.

Ingredients

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

• 20 medjool dates (pits removed)

• 1/2 cup almond butter (or nut butter of choice)

• 1/2 cup roasted cashews (or other nut)

• 1/4 cup chia seeds

• 3 Tbsp finely ground coffee

• 1/4 cup protein powder (chocolate flavored works great)

• 1/4 cup rolled oats

Directions

1. In a food processor or blender, blend the dates with about a tablespoon of water (or more as needed) until smooth.

2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the date puree with almond butter, chia seeds, coffee, and protein powder.

3. Pulse the cashews in the food processor (no need to clean it) until small chunks and some dust form.

4. Add the cashews to your bowl and stir until the mix is smooth and sticky. If it’s too dry, I add a tablespoon or two of water. If it’s too wet, I pulse in extra cashews or oats to firm it up.

5. When the consistency feels right, scoop the batter into balls—as big or small as I like (I use a heaping tablespoon) and roll them with my hands until smooth.

6. Place the plate of date balls in the freezer for a few hours until they’re firm and pop off easily. Then I store them in a freezer-safe bag until ready to enjoy.

Servings And Timing

I usually make a batch every two to three weeks. It takes about 20 minutes to assemble. Depending on the size of each, the recipe yields 20–30 balls.

Variations

I love that this recipe encourages experimentation—I’ve tried adding shredded coconut, pistachios, vanilla-flavored protein powder, cocoa powder, or even chocolate chips depending on what I have on hand—and they always turn out delicious.

Storage/Reheating

I store the date balls in a plastic bag in the freezer. When I want one, I just let it thaw slightly, and it’s perfect for a quick grab-and-go snack. They’re especially delightful as they warm up while I’m out running or practicing.

FAQs

1. What Kind Of Protein Powder Works Best?

I typically use chocolate protein powder or collagen peptides, but honestly, any protein powder will work. Chocolate flavor adds a nice touch of sweetness.

2. What’s The Purpose Of The Coffee Grounds?

I add finely ground coffee for a gentle caffeine boost and a subtle flavor lift—it’s especially handy before workouts.

3. How Can I Adjust The Texture If It’s Too Sticky Or Too Dry?

If the mixture is too dry, I add a little water. If it’s too sticky, I pulse in more cashews or oats until the texture is just right for rolling.

4. Can I Replace The Cashews Or Almond Butter?

Absolutely! I often swap in almonds, other nuts, or even nut-free butters depending on what I have on hand.

5. What’s The Best Way To Snack On These?

I stash a few in my training pouch or freezer—they thaw just enough by the time I need them and are ideal pre- or post-run fuel.

Conclusion

I love these Date Balls because they’re quick to make, packed with a balance of natural sugars, protein, healthy fats, and a touch of caffeine. They’re custom-friendly, freezer-friendly, and perfect for fueling training sessions or busy days. These energy-dense “ballers” truly help me crush my workouts day after day.

Date Balls

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• Author: Yusraa
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 20–30 balls
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

These Date Balls are nutrient-packed energy bites made with dates, nut butter, chia seeds, protein powder, and a hint of coffee. Perfect for pre- or post-workout fuel, they’re freezer-friendly, customizable, and ready in about 20 minutes.

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Ingredients

20 medjool dates, pits removed

1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut butter)

1/2 cup roasted cashews (or other nut)

1/4 cup chia seeds

3 tablespoons finely ground coffee

1/4 cup chocolate protein powder (or preferred flavor)

1/4 cup rolled oats

Optional: 1–2 tablespoons water, as needed

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Instructions

1. Blend the pitted dates with about 1 tablespoon of water in a food processor until smooth. Add more water if needed to help it blend.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the date puree with almond butter, chia seeds, coffee grounds, and protein powder.
3. Pulse the cashews in the food processor (no need to clean it) until broken into small chunks and powdery bits.
4. Add the chopped cashews and rolled oats to the mixing bowl and stir until the mixture is sticky and cohesive. Add water or more oats/cashews to adjust consistency if needed.
5. Scoop heaping tablespoons of the mixture and roll into smooth balls by hand.
6. Place the balls on a tray or plate and freeze for several hours until firm.
7. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and store until ready to enjoy.

Notes

• Use any nut or seed butter to match dietary preferences.
• Substitute protein powder flavors depending on taste.
• Add-ins like coconut, cocoa powder, or chocolate chips add fun variation.
• For a caffeine-free version, omit the coffee grounds.
• These freeze well and are perfect for grab-and-go fuel.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: Healthy

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 ball
• Calories: 100
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg