Cacao Energy Balls
One of my favorite afternoon treats! Enough kick to boost your afternoon but not enough to disrupt sleep. And they take less than 10 minutes to make!
A quick overview of the health benefits of each ingredient:
Cacao: the purest, most whole form of chocolate is cacao. Rich in polyphenols, research shows cacao actually has more antioxidants than green tea and red wine. It’s also a great source of zinc and copper, two minerals that have an awesome impact on our bodies. Zinc boosts the immune system and prevents acne, while copper helps the body absorb iron, which prevents anemia. Copper is also an immune booster and helps the body form collagen, the protein that helps keep our skin supple and our joints lubricated. Cacao is also a great source of magnesium, which can help calm the body and reduce anxiety and stress. What this means? Cacao gives a mild caffeine boost while simultaneously calming stress.
Dates: a natural sweetener LOADED with health benefits, dates have a low glycemic index so they prevent that big spike and fall of blood sugar that leads to the dreaded “sugar crash.” They also help our bodies absorb iron and are rich in minerals and fiber.
Almonds: a great source of Vitamin E and calcium, almonds are a “healthy fat,” meaning they fuel and protect our brain and help protect against cardiovascular disease.
Cinnamon: helps regulate blood sugar levels. A sweet treat that balances blood sugar levels? It’s a win / win!
Ingredients:
1/4 cup almonds
2 pitted dates
1 tablespoon unsweetened cacao powder (Navitas is a great brand)
1 tablespoon unsweetened almond butter
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Optional: pinch of sea salt
Directions:
Toss almonds in food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
Add dates (make sure to remove the pits first!) and pulse again.
Add cacao, almond butter, cinnamon and sea salt (if using) and pulse until smooth.
Roll into 1 inch balls.
Enjoy! Store leftovers in fridge for up to 5 days.