These Nut and Dried Fruit Energy Balls are the perfect blend of sweet and crunchy, providing a nutritious and delicious snack that’s easy to make and perfect for on-the-go. Packed with dried fruits, nuts, seeds, and spices, these energy balls are not only tasty but also rich in fiber, healthy fats, and essential nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 4.2 oz (120 g) dates
- 1.8 oz (50 g) dried apricots
- 1 oz (30 g) dried plums
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup (50 g) walnuts
- 1/4 cup (30 g) cashews
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (toasting seeds and nuts)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dried Fruits:
- Place the dates, dried apricots, and dried plums in a bowl. Cover them with hot water and let them sit for about 15 minutes to soften.
- Once softened, drain the water and set the fruits aside.
2. Toast the Seeds:
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds.
- Toast them, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and let them cool.
3. Toast the Nuts:
- Using the same skillet, add the walnuts and cashews.
- Toast these nuts over medium heat until they are golden brown, enhancing their flavor and crunch. Once toasted, remove the nuts from the skillet and let them cool.
4. Chop the Nuts:
- After the nuts have cooled, use a knife to chop them finely. This will make them easier to mix and form into balls later.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped nuts, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest.
- Add the toasted seeds and the softened, drained dried fruits.
- Mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined.
6. Form the Energy Balls:
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on a plate.
- Wet your hands slightly with water—this prevents the mixture from sticking to your hands.
- Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into walnut-sized balls.
- Roll the balls in the sesame seeds to coat them evenly.
7. Serve or Store:
- Enjoy the energy balls immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for later consumption.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy these energy balls as a quick snack.
- Perfect for a post-workout energy boost.
- Great for packing in lunchboxes for a healthy treat.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the dried fruits are well-softened for easier mixing.
- Toasting the seeds and nuts enhances their flavor and crunch, so don’t skip this step.
- Adjust the spices to your taste preference for a more personalized flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Dates: High in natural sugars and fiber.
- Nuts and Seeds: Provide healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.
- Dried Fruits: Rich in antioxidants and fiber.
- Spices: Ginger and cinnamon add not only flavor but also anti-inflammatory properties.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-free
- Vegan
- High in fiber and healthy fats
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy: Packed with nutritious ingredients for a balanced snack.
- Delicious: The combination of sweet dried fruits and crunchy nuts is irresistible.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and no baking required.
- Portable: Perfect for on-the-go snacking.
Conclusion:
These Nut and Dried Fruit Energy Balls are a fantastic addition to your snack repertoire. With their rich nutritional profile and delightful flavor, they offer a wholesome and satisfying option for any time of day. Try them out and enjoy the blend of sweet and crunchy goodness!