Quick Trail Mix Energy Balls
These no-bake Trail Mix Energy Bites combine dates, nuts, chia seeds, and dried fruit for a nutrient-dense, protein-packed snack. Quick to prepare, fiber-rich, and loaded with healthy fats, they are perfect for a satisfying, portable energy boost anytime, requiring minimal tools and offering maximum convenience
Equipment
- 1 Food Processor
- 1 Small Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup dates
- ½ cup walnuts
- ½ cup pecans
- ¼ cup peanut butter
- Pinch of sea salt
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Instructions
- Date Paste Preparation: Begin by placing the pitted dates into a food processor. Pulse and blend until they form a smooth, thick, sticky paste, ensuring there are no large chunks remaining. This natural sweetness base will help bind all the other ingredients together seamlessly.
- Nut & Spice Mixing: Add the walnuts, pecans, peanut butter, sea salt, and cinnamon to the food processor. Blend until the mixture achieves a coarse, wet sand-like consistency, scraping down the sides as needed to make sure all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The result should be sticky enough to hold together but textured for bite.
- Add-Ins Integration: Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl and fold in the dried cranberries, shredded coconut, and chia seeds. Mix thoroughly with a spatula or spoon until every piece is evenly coated, creating a balanced combination of flavor, texture, and nutrition in every bite.
- Portioning the Bites: Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, carefully scoop out the mixture and roll it into uniform balls with your hands. Place each energy bite onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them slightly apart to prevent sticking.
- Chilling and Setting: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and let the bites chill for about 30 minutes to firm up. This step ensures that the bites hold their shape, making them easy to store, transport, and enjoy as a ready-to-go snack.
- Serving and Storage: Once set, enjoy immediately or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to a month, ensuring you always have a convenient, protein-packed snack on hand.
Notes
- Dates should be soft and fresh for easier blending; soak in warm water for 10 minutes if they’re dry.
- Adjust nuts or nut butter based on your taste preference or allergies.
- For extra sweetness, add a teaspoon of maple syrup or agave.
- Roll bites in extra shredded coconut or cocoa powder for variety.
- Ensure bites chill fully to maintain their shape and prevent crumbling.