These quick and healthy oatmeal and date balls are a perfect dessert for satisfying your sweet cravings. Free from added sugar, vegan, and packed with wholesome ingredients like dates, oats, and walnuts, these treats are ready in just 5 minutes and provide natural sweetness and nutrition.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 150g (5 oz) dates
- 80g (2.8 oz) rolled oats
- 90g (3 oz) walnuts
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 pinch salt (optional)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 100g (3.5 oz) sugar-free chocolate
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Directions:
- Prepare the Dates:
- Soak dates in water for 15 minutes, then remove pits.
- Prepare the Oats:
- Grind rolled oats into a fine consistency.
- Chop the Nuts:
- Chop walnuts, saving some for decoration.
- Mix Ingredients:
- Blend dates into a paste and combine with ground oats, walnuts, cinnamon, salt, and orange zest.
- Form Balls:
- Roll the mixture into small balls and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Prepare Chocolate Coating:
- Melt chocolate with olive oil, dip balls into chocolate, and decorate with walnuts.
- Refrigerate Again:
- Chill for another 15 minutes and serve in paper molds.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled as a dessert or snack.
Cooking Tips:
- Use a food processor for easier blending of ingredients.
- Experiment with additional flavorings like vanilla or nutmeg.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Dates: Provide natural sweetness, rich in fiber and antioxidants.
- Oats: A source of complex carbohydrates and fiber.
- Walnuts: High in healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan: Free from animal products.
- No Added Sugar: Naturally sweetened with dates.
Nutritional Facts (per ball, based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in minutes and perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
- Naturally Sweet: No added sugar, sweetened only with dates.
- Vegan-Friendly: Ideal for those following a plant-based diet.
Conclusion:
These oatmeal and date balls are a delicious and nutritious snack that’s quick to make and full of natural goodness. The combination of dates, oats, and walnuts makes them a satisfying and healthy dessert option, perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout snack or a quick treat, this recipe is a great choice.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Yes, almonds, pecans, or cashews work well. - Can I skip the chocolate coating?
Yes, you can enjoy the date balls without the chocolate, or dust them with cocoa powder instead. - How do I store these date balls?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. - Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats can be used, but rolled oats provide better texture. - Can I add other flavors to this recipe?
You can add vanilla extract, nutmeg, or even coconut flakes for added flavor. - Are these date balls gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats. - Can I use honey instead of dates?
Dates provide the texture and sweetness for this recipe, but honey can be added for extra sweetness. - How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe typically makes about 12 date balls. - Can I use coconut oil instead of olive oil?
Yes, coconut oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil in the chocolate coating. - Can I freeze these date balls?
Yes, they can be frozen for up to 1 month; just thaw before eating.