Date-Sweetened Almond Butter Balls

These quick treats can be made in about five minutes (hurrah!) and are no-bake, meaning no actual baking required. All you need is a freezer to firm them up. When they are cold from the freezer but sweet and crispy, it's pretty much bliss. They are perfect to serve to guests; even non-vegan gluten-loving friends will salivate over these healthier options.

 

Date-Sweetened Almond Butter Balls

Yields 15-20 balls

 

 

Ingredients:

 

1 cup Medjool dates

1/2 cup almond butter

(add 1-2 TBSP warm water if needed)

1 TBSP organic chia seeds

pinch of coarse sea salt (plus extra for topping if desired)

1-1/4 cup gluten-free chocolate unflavored crispy rice cereal

optional coating:

1/2 cup nondairy soy-free chocolate chips, melted with 2 tsp coconut oil

 

Directions:

 

1. Food-process dates, then add in almond butter and chia.

2. Mix until a sticky ball forms, and pulse in cereal.

3. OPTIONAL: add 1 scoop unflavored vegan protein powder for a more protein-packed version.

4. Freeze cookie balls (recipe will yield 15 or so depending on size).

5. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler, and spread onto cookies. Sprinkle on the additional coarse salt for a wonderful taste and look. You may use a spoon to get the bottoms coated with chocolate as well then place the chocolate-coated cookies on waxed paper or similar material to easily remove them.

6. Store them in the freezer, and take out at least 20 min before serving.

 

Like what you see? Get the new gluten-free healthier dessert cookbook for similar healthier recipes that everyone including picky kids will LOVE!