Peanut and Date Energy Balls are a wholesome and satisfying snack made from two simple ingredients: roasted peanuts and seedless dates. These energy balls are packed with natural sweetness, protein, and healthy fats, making them the perfect snack to fuel your day. Ideal for a quick breakfast, a post-workout snack, or just as a healthy treat during the day, these energy balls are easy to make and require minimal ingredients and effort. Coated in sesame seeds, they also offer a satisfying crunch and an added boost of nutrition. These energy balls provide a natural energy source, without refined sugars or artificial ingredients.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Total Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine
This recipe is inspired by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, where dates and nuts are commonly used as ingredients for snacks and desserts. The natural sweetness of dates paired with the rich flavor of peanuts creates a perfect balance of flavors. The sesame seed coating is a common addition in many Mediterranean snacks, providing a crunchy texture and nutty taste.
Full List of Ingredients
2 cups of roasted peanuts
2 cups of seedless dates
Sesame seeds (for coating)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Peanuts
Start by roasting the peanuts if they are not already roasted. Roasting peanuts intensifies their flavor and gives them a rich, slightly smoky taste that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of dates. Once roasted, crush the peanuts using a food processor or by hand. You want to achieve a coarse, smooth texture that holds together without being too fine. This will help the energy balls bind together and maintain their shape.
2. Prepare the Dates
Take your seedless dates and pit them if necessary. Dates are naturally sticky, which helps them hold the mixture together. If your dates are a bit dry, soak them in warm water for about 5-10 minutes to soften them up. After soaking, mash the dates using a fork or food processor until you get a smooth paste. The smooth texture will allow the dates to combine seamlessly with the crushed peanuts, creating a sticky dough for the energy balls.
3. Combine Peanuts and Dates
In a large bowl, combine the crushed peanuts and mashed dates. Use your hands to knead the mixture together, ensuring the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. The dough should be sticky but firm enough to hold its shape when you roll it into balls. If the mixture is too dry, add a bit more date paste. If it’s too sticky, add more crushed peanuts.
4. Shape the Balls
Once the mixture is ready, take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about the size of a walnut. Press gently but firmly to form uniform balls. You can make them as large or small as you like, but keeping them around the size of a golf ball is ideal for easy snacking.
5. Coat with Sesame Seeds
Place sesame seeds in a shallow bowl. Roll each peanut and date ball in the sesame seeds, ensuring they are evenly coated. The sesame seeds not only add a delightful crunch to the outside of the energy balls but also provide additional nutrients like calcium, iron, and magnesium.
6. Serve and Store
Once the energy balls are coated, they are ready to be served. You can enjoy them right away, or store them in an airtight container. These energy balls can be kept at room temperature for about 2-3 days, or stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be stored in the freezer for longer shelf life—simply pull them out when you need a quick snack.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 150 kcal
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fat: 8 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugars: 12 g
Sodium: 2 mg
Cholesterol: 0 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
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