These Cashew-Date Chocolate Bites are the perfect blend of creamy cashews, naturally sweet dates, and rich sugar-free chocolate. These no-bake treats are easy to make, require only a few ingredients, and make a delicious, healthy snack or dessert that everyone will love.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 10 bites
Ingredients
- 90 grams (1/2 cup) cashews
- 10 dates (pitted)
- 2 tablespoons sugar-free apple syrup
- 70 grams (1/2 cup) sugar-free chocolate
- 1.5 tablespoons oat milk
Directions
- Soak Cashews and Dates: Place cashews and pitted dates in a bowl and cover with cold water. Let soak for 15 minutes, then drain.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a blender, combine soaked cashews, dates, and sugar-free apple syrup. Blend until smooth and well combined.
- Form the Bites: Spoon the mixture into an ice cube tray with a silicone bottom. Use your finger or a small spoon to make indentations in the center of each bite. Place the tray in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler), melt the sugar-free chocolate. Stir in oat milk until smooth.
- Fill the Indentations: Pour the melted chocolate into a piping bag. Carefully pipe the chocolate into the indentations of each cashew-date bite.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate for another 15 minutes or until the chocolate is set.
- Serve: Pop the bites out of the tray and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these bites chilled as a healthy snack or dessert.
- Pair with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
Cooking Tips
- Use a silicone ice cube tray to easily remove the bites without breaking.
- Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate for a hint of savory flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cashews: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and minerals like magnesium and zinc.
- Dates: Provide natural sweetness, fiber, and antioxidants, making these bites a nutritious option.
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for up to one month.
Walnut-Date Energy Balls
These simple Walnut-Date Energy Balls are a quick and healthy snack made with just three main ingredients. Perfect for an energy boost, these bite-sized treats are naturally sweetened with dates and coated in rich dark chocolate, making them both nutritious and satisfying.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 balls
Ingredients
- 70 grams (2/3 cup) walnuts
- 100 grams (2/3 cup) dates (pitted)
- 40 grams (1/4 cup) sugar-free dark chocolate
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Directions
- Soak Dates and Walnuts: Place the dates and walnuts in a bowl and cover with cold water. Let soak for 15 minutes, then drain.
- Blend the Mixture: In a blender, combine the soaked walnuts and dates. Blend until the mixture is well combined and forms a sticky dough.
- Form Balls: Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Place the balls on a tray lined with parchment paper.
- Chill the Balls: Place the tray in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up the balls.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler), melt the dark chocolate. Stir in the vanilla extract, if using, until smooth.
- Dip the Balls: Using a fork or skewer, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, coating it evenly. Place the coated balls back on the parchment-lined tray.
- Decorate: Decorate the balls with chopped nuts, if desired. Let the chocolate set.
- Serve: Once the chocolate is firm, the balls are ready to enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect as a quick snack, pre- or post-workout boost, or dessert.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Tips
- For added texture, coat the balls in crushed nuts or shredded coconut before the chocolate sets.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if desired.
Nutritional Benefits
- Walnuts: High in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, supporting heart and brain health.
- Dates: Provide natural sugars and dietary fiber, helping to sustain energy levels.
Storage
- Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for up to one month.
Why You’ll Love These Recipes
- Easy and Quick: No baking required, and they come together in minutes.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from nuts, dates, and dark chocolate.
- Naturally Sweetened: No refined sugars, making them a guilt-free treat.
- Versatile: Great for snacks, desserts, or even as a sweet addition to lunchboxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different nut instead of cashews or walnuts?
Yes, almonds or pecans work well as substitutes. - Can I use a different type of milk?
Any plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk can be used instead of oat milk. - Is it necessary to soak the nuts and dates?
Soaking softens them, making blending easier and giving a smoother texture. - Can I add other flavors?
Yes, add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cocoa powder for extra flavor. - Are these recipes vegan?
Yes, both recipes are vegan as long as the chocolate used is dairy-free. - How can I make these recipes nut-free?
Substitute nuts with sunflower seeds or oats for a nut-free version. - Can I add protein powder to the mixtures?
Yes, you can add a tablespoon of your favorite protein powder to boost the protein content. - What can I use instead of dates?
Figs, raisins, or prunes can be used as alternatives, but they may alter the texture slightly. - Can these be made ahead?
Yes, these bites and balls can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer. - Can I skip the chocolate coating?
Yes, both recipes taste great without the chocolate, though the coating adds a lovely richness.