Energy balls are a staple snack at True Food Nutrition HQ. They provide just the right amount of sweetness and satisfying mouth-feel for those moments when nothing but something sweet will do but without the sugar rush of a sweet in a shiny wrapper.
We love experimenting with different flavours - zingy citrusy ones in the spring and summer, satisfying chocolatey ones in the winter and these gently spiced carrot cake energy balls are our new favourite autumn flavour. Energy balls are are so easy to make, you can experiment to find your own favourite flavour and they keep easily in the fridge or freezer.
Energy balls are portable and so they are the perfect companion for a work-day snack, or to take with you on a bike ride, a hike or for a pre or post workout boost to keep you fuelled in a balanced way.
Ingredients
100 - 120 g carrots, grated
3 Medjool dates, pitted and halved
4 dried apricots, pitted
2 tbsp unsweetened apple sauce
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp natural vanilla extract
80g rolled oats
30 g coconut flour
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground ginger
10 - 20 g desiccated coconut, for rolling
Method
Put the dates, apricots, apple sauce, maple syrup, and vanilla extract into a food processor and pulse for about 30 seconds or until finely chopped and well combined.
Add the oats, coconut flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and grated carrot.
Pulse for a further 15-20 seconds, scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula and pulse again for another 15-20 seconds until all ingredients are properly combined.
Place the desiccated coconut on a plate or in a shallow bowl.
Take a tablespoon of the mixture at a time and shape them into balls with your hands. If the mixture is a little sticky, dip your spoon into some warm water between each ball.
You should be able to make about 12 balls but feel free to experiment with whatever size you prefer.
Roll each ball in the desiccated coconut until evenly coated.
You can enjoy these immediately or refrigerate for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Top Tip: if you'd like to add some additional protein, swap the coconut flour for a neutral flavoured protein powder
Recipe & photo credit: Thermomix & Cookidoo
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