These Orange Cardamom Energy Bites are the perfect combination of sweet, citrusy, and spicy flavors, making for a delightful and healthy snack. With no baking required, they come together quickly and are packed with natural energy from dates, cashews, and coconut. These bites are great for a preworkout snack or an afternoon pickmeup.
Ingredients:
1 cup packed pitted dates (about 11 medjool dates or 200 g after pitting)
1/2 cup raw unsalted cashews (or substitute with seeds like hemp or sunflower if nutfree)
1/2 cup desiccated or shredded unsweetened coconut
1 pinch sea salt
3/4 to 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cardamom (adjust to your preference and cardamom’s freshness)
1/2 teaspoon packed orange zest
For the Topping (optional):
1 teaspoon packed orange zest
3 tablespoons desiccated coconut
1 tablespoon coconut sugar
Instructions:
1. Process the Mixture:
In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, cashews, coconut, sea salt, cardamom, and orange zest. (Note: If you don’t have a food processor, a blender can work, but keep the speed low and pulse to avoid the sticky dates overworking the blender.)
Pulse until the mixture is crumbly, breaking down the ingredients but leaving it with texture. Stop before it becomes completely doughlike so the bites retain some texture. When pressed between your fingers, the mixture should stick together; if it’s still dry, continue processing until it holds together to form balls.
2. Adjust Flavors:
Taste the mixture and adjust the flavors if needed. You can add more cardamom, orange zest, or a pinch more salt to suit your preference.
3. Prepare the Coating (Optional):
If you’re using the topping, combine the orange zest, desiccated coconut, and coconut sugar in a small bowl.
4. Form the Energy Bites:
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. The recipe yields about 16 balls.
If using the topping, roll the balls in the coconut mixture until they are generously coated.
5. Enjoy & Store:
Enjoy the energy bites immediately, or store them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 1 month. These bites are great straight from the fridge or after sitting at room temperature for 510 minutes.
Recipe Details:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: About 16 bites
Tips for Success:
Flavor Adjustments: Depending on the freshness of your cardamom, adjust the amount to suit your taste. If the cardamom flavor is strong, start with less and increase it.
Date Texture: If your dates are too dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using. Drain well before adding to the food processor.
Topping Variations: If you prefer a different coating, try rolling the bites in crushed nuts or cacao powder for an alternative flavor profile.
Storage: Keep energy bites tightly sealed in the fridge to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out. Freezing is also a great option for longterm storage.
