Description

Matcha energy balls are nutrient dense: rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you going. They make the perfect snack any time of day!

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 cup raw pepitas (shelled pumpkln seeds)
1 cup raw, blanched almonds (I like to use almond slivers)
1 tablespoon culinary grade matcha green tea powder (I like to usethis brand)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional: 2 teaspoons maca root powder – I use this brand
Pinch salt
1 1/2 cups sticky medjool Dates pitted*
2 to 4 tablespoons water
2 to 3 tablespoons black sesame seeds (optional)

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Instructions

Pulse nuts: Add the pepitas, almonds, matcha green tea powder, and maca powder (if using) to a food processor. Pulse until a semi-fine meal is achieved. Don’t pulse too long otherwise it will turn into butter (see photo in post).
Add Dates: Add half of the pitted dates to the ground nuts. Pulse until the dates are semi-incorporated and small chunks remain. Add the remaining dates and continue processing until they are well incorporated and no chunks remain.
Add the water & vanilla extract: While the food processor is running add the vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of water. Stop the processor from running and remove the lid, squeeze some of the mixture between your fingers, if it sticks together well then you are done. If it seems crumbly then add 1 to 2 more tablespoons of water (how much water you need will depend on how sticky your dates are).
Form the balls: Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop a about 1 tablespoon of the dough and roll it into a ball using your hands (I like to use a small cookie scoop to help my form even sized balls), and set the balls onto the parchment lined baking sheet. Repeat until you’ve worked through all the dough – you should have 17 to 19 balls.
Top with black sesame seeds: Place the sesame seeds in a shallow bowl, or plate. Take an energy ball and gently roll the top of the balls around in the sesame seeds. Use your fingers to slightly press the sesame seeds into the ball so that they stick., place the ball back on the baking sheet. Continue to add the sesame seeds until all the balls are finished.
Chill**: Chill the balls in the freezer for 15 minutes.
Store/eat: Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or up to 6 months in the freezer. Either eat them right away or enjoy them for a pre or post workout snack, afternoon snack, or in lunch boxes.

Notes

*Dates: If your dates are not sticky soak them in hot water for 10 minutes. Drain them before proceeding with the recipe.

**If you’re in a hurry you can skip the freezing step and just pop them into an air tight container and store them in the fridge. The freezing step just helps the balls to retain their shape.