This delicious and healthy dessert combines the natural sweetness of dates, dried apricots, and nuts with the richness of dark and white chocolate. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick snack or a delightful dessert that is both nutritious and satisfying. The blend of seeds and nuts adds a satisfying crunch, while the Jerusalem artichoke syrup provides a subtle sweetness with added health benefits.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Chilling Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Ingredients:
- Dates: 80 grams (3 ounces) / ½ cup
- Dried Apricots: 100 grams (3.5 ounces) / ⅔ cup
- Walnuts: 60 grams (2 ounces) / ½ cup
- Sunflower Seeds: 15 grams (0.5 ounces) / 2 tablespoons
- Almonds: 30 grams (1 ounce) / ¼ cup
- Sesame Seeds: 30 grams (1 ounce) / ¼ cup
- Pumpkin Seeds: 20 grams (0.7 ounces) / 2½ tablespoons
- Jerusalem Artichoke Syrup: 15 ml (0.5 fl oz) / 1 tablespoon
- Vanilla Extract: a few drops
- Dark Chocolate (sugar-free): 100 grams (3.5 ounces) / ⅔ cup
- Olive Oil: 13 ml (0.4 fl oz) / 1 tablespoon
- White Chocolate (sugar-free): 100 grams (3.5 ounces) / ⅔ cup
- Ground Pumpkin Seeds: 7 grams (0.2 ounces) / 1 tablespoon
- Ground Almond Kernels: 7 grams (0.2 ounces) / 1 tablespoon
Directions:
- Prepare the Dried Fruits:
- Soak dates and dried apricots in cold water for 15 minutes to remove preservatives and activate beneficial substances.
- Remove the seeds from the dates.
- Blend the Ingredients:
- In a blender, grind the walnuts and sunflower seeds until finely chopped.
- Add the soaked dates and dried apricots, and blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
- Prepare the Nuts and Seeds:
- Fry the almonds in a pan until golden brown, then chop them with a knife.
- Add sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, chopped almonds, Jerusalem artichoke syrup, and vanilla extract to the blended mixture. Mix well.
- Shape the Mixture:
- Form small spheres from the mixture and place them in a silicone mold.
- Flatten the balls slightly and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
- Coat with Chocolate:
- Melt the dark chocolate in a water bath, then stir in 13 ml of olive oil. Pour the mixture over the flattened balls in the mold.
- Repeat the melting process with the white chocolate, adding olive oil, and pouring over the dark chocolate layer.
- Decorate and Chill:
- Grind pumpkin seeds and almond kernels, then sprinkle over the white chocolate layer.
- Place the molds in the fridge for 30-40 minutes until the chocolate is completely solid.
- Serve:
- Enjoy these treats as an after-dinner dessert, a quick snack, or as part of a festive platter.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an after-dinner treat with coffee or tea.
- Add to a festive platter with other homemade sweets.
- Perfect for a quick snack or energy boost on the go.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the nuts are finely chopped to create a smoother texture in the final product.
- Use high-quality dark and white chocolate for the best flavor.
- Customize with your favorite nuts and seeds for a personalized touch.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in Fiber: Dates and apricots provide natural sweetness and a good source of dietary fiber.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Nuts and seeds add healthy fats, which support heart health.
- Antioxidants: Dark chocolate contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan-Friendly: Substitute white chocolate with a vegan option if needed.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Sweetened with natural fruits and Jerusalem artichoke syrup.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate):
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 9g
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- These treats can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal equipment required.
- Healthy Ingredients: A guilt-free treat packed with nutrients.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite flavors.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: A versatile dessert for parties, gifts, or everyday enjoyment.
Conclusion:
This recipe offers a delightful balance between health and indulgence, making it a perfect treat for those who love chocolate but want to keep it nutritious. The combination of dates, nuts, seeds, and chocolate ensures a satisfying texture and taste in every bite. Whether you’re making these for yourself or as a gift, they’re sure to be a hit.
Enjoy these delicious chocolate-coated energy balls, knowing they’re as good for your body as they are for your taste buds!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use other dried fruits instead of apricots?
Yes, you can substitute with raisins, figs, or any other dried fruit you enjoy. - Is it possible to make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, you can use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds in place of nuts. - Can I use regular chocolate instead of sugar-free chocolate?
Absolutely! Just be aware that it may alter the nutritional facts. - How long do these treats last at room temperature?
They can last about a week at room temperature but will keep longer in the fridge. - What’s the best way to melt chocolate?
A double boiler method works best, but you can also use a microwave in short bursts. - Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
Yes, you can add protein powder to enhance the protein content; just adjust the moisture accordingly. - Are these energy balls suitable for children?
Yes, they are a healthy snack option for kids. - Can I omit the Jerusalem artichoke syrup?
Yes, you can omit it or substitute it with another natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave. - How can I make these more decadent?
Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before the chocolate hardens for a sweet and salty contrast. - What if I don’t have a silicone mold?
You can use parchment paper-lined trays or simply shape them by hand into small ball