Ditch the sugary snacks and fuel your body with the good stuff! These Superfood Energy Bites are packed with naturally sweet dried fruits, nuts, and seeds, making them the perfect guilt-free pick-me-up. They’re sugar-free, no-bake, and require minimal prep, making them ideal for busy lifestyles.
Total Preparation Time:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Freezing Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 100 g Dates
- 70 g Plums
- 45 g Dried Cranberries
- 50 g Raisins
- 80 g Dried Apricots
- 50 g Pumpkin Seeds
- 70 g Walnuts, chopped
- 75 g Almonds, roasted
- 35 g Sesame Seeds (reserve some for decoration)
- 20 g Pine Nuts
- 20 g Oat Flakes
Instructions:
1. Prep the Dried Fruits:
- Wash the dried fruits (dates, plums, cranberries, raisins, and apricots).
- Soak them in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes to remove any preservatives and activate beneficial nutrients.
- Drain the soaked fruits well after 20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Nuts and Seeds:
- Toast the almonds (75g) in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, watching closely to avoid burning. This takes about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Lightly fry the sesame seeds (35g) in a pan over medium heat for a minute or two, until toasted and fragrant. Set aside, reserving a small amount for decoration later.
- Chop the walnuts (70g) into coarse pieces.
3. Combine Fruits and Nuts:
- In a large bowl, combine all the chopped or whole dried fruits (apricots, cranberries, raisins, soaked dates, and plums), chopped walnuts, roasted almonds, pumpkin seeds, and pine nuts.
- Add the oat flakes to the bowl.
4. Grind and Mix:
- Using a blender or food processor, grind the soaked dates and plums until they form a sticky paste.
- Add this paste to the bowl with the other ingredients and mix well using a spoon or spatula to ensure everything is evenly combined.
5. Shape and Freeze:
- With clean hands, form the mixture into a long cylinder shape.
- Spread the reserved sesame seeds on a plate and roll the cylinder in the sesame seeds to coat the outside for decoration.
- Place the formed cylinder on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze the cylinder for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
6. Slice and Enjoy:
- Once frozen, slice the cylinder into bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife.
- Enjoy your delicious and sugar-free energy dessert!
Nutritional Benefits:
These Superfood Energy Bites are packed with essential nutrients and natural energy boosters:
- Dates and Dried Fruits: Rich in natural sugars, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, they provide quick energy and support digestive health.
- Nuts and Seeds: High in healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, which promote heart health and sustained energy.
- Oat Flakes: Provide fiber and slow-releasing carbohydrates for long-lasting energy.
Tips for Making the Best Superfood Energy Bites:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all nuts, seeds, and dried fruits are fresh for the best flavor and nutrient content.
- Customize the Ingredients: Feel free to swap out any nuts or dried fruits for your favorites.
- Store Properly: Keep the bites in an airtight container in the freezer for a longer shelf life.
Serving Suggestions:
- On-the-Go Snack: Perfect for a quick energy boost during busy days.
- Pre- or Post-Workout: Provides natural energy and nutrients to fuel your exercise or aid in recovery.
- Healthy Dessert: Enjoy a guilt-free sweet treat after meals.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Store the sliced energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: No need to reheat; simply enjoy straight from the fridge or allow a few minutes to thaw if frozen.
Conclusion:
These Superfood Energy Bites are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. They’re an ideal snack for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste. Enjoy the convenience and health benefits of these easy-to-make, sugar-free treats. Happy snacking!
