Chocolate Tahini Energy Balls
These no-bake chocolate tahini energy balls combine rich cocoa and creamy tahini into bite-sized powerhouses perfect for busy days. With just five whole-food ingredients, they deliver a satisfying blend of nutrients that balances indulgence with nourishment, making them ideal for workouts, busy schedules, or afternoon slumps.
Equipment
- Food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Tablespoon or cookie scoop
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet or tray
- Airtight container (for storage)
- Skillet (if toasting seeds)
Ingredients
- 1 cup Medjool dates pitted (soak in warm water if dry)
- ½ cup tahini runny, high-quality
- 3 tbsp cocoa powder unsweetened
- 2 oz dark chocolate 70% or higher, chopped
- ½ cup rolled oats use certified gluten-free if needed
- 1 tbsp maple syrup optional, for additional sweetness
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds for rolling, optional
Instructions
- If using, toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
- Add pitted dates to a food processor and pulse until broken down into small pieces.
- Add tahini to the food processor and pulse 5-7 times until the mixture becomes crumbly but not overly processed.
- Add cocoa powder, chopped dark chocolate, rolled oats, and sea salt to the food processor.
- Pulse until the mixture comes together and sticks when pressed between your fingers. If too dry, add maple syrup.
- Test the mixture by scooping a tablespoon and pressing between your palms. If it holds together, it's ready.
- If the mixture is too sticky to handle, refrigerate for 10 minutes before shaping.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion the mixture into equal-sized amounts.
- Roll each portion between slightly damp palms, applying firm pressure to form balls.
- If desired, roll the formed balls in toasted sesame seeds, cocoa powder, or other toppings.
- Place the energy balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Transfer to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper if stacking.
Notes
For best results, use runny tahini like Soom Foods brand to avoid a grainy texture. If your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 5-10 minutes before using. To make these balls more protein-rich, add 1-2 tablespoons of hemp seeds or protein powder. For a nut-free version, ensure your tahini is processed in a nut-free facility. These energy balls can be customized with various mix-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruits, or spices.
Nutrition
Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 3gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1.5gSodium: 45mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 4gSugar: 9gCalcium: 45mgIron: 1.2mg
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