Chocolate Coconut Date Bliss Balls
Chewy, naturally sweet, and made with wholefood ingredients, these Chocolate Coconut Date Bliss Balls are a healthy snack option. Packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and good fats, they’re perfect for quick energy, meal prep, or guilt-free indulgence. No baking required, ready in just 15 minutes, and easy to store.
Equipment
- 1 Food processor or high-speed blender
- 1 Bowl (medium)
- 1 strainer
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- 1 spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- ¾ cup rolled oats
- 200 g Medjool dates approx. 10–12, pitted
- 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut plus extra for rolling
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates: Start by removing the pits from your Medjool dates. Once pitted, place them in a small bowl and pour over enough hot water to cover them. Let the dates soak for about 5 minutes. This softens them, making them easier to blend into a smooth, sticky paste. After soaking, drain the water thoroughly using a strainer, then press the dates gently with a spoon or your hands to remove any excess moisture. Removing this water is crucial to ensure your bliss balls hold their shape and aren’t too wet.
- Process the Oats: Measure out ¾ cup of rolled oats and transfer them into a food processor or high-speed blender. Blitz the oats for 1–2 minutes until they reach a coarse, flour-like texture. This helps the mixture bind together more easily and gives the bliss balls a pleasant, slightly nutty base. Make sure not to over-blend, as you still want a little texture for chewiness.
- Add Cocoa and Peanut Butter: Add 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons of natural peanut butter to the processed oats. Cocoa provides rich chocolate flavor without added sugar, while peanut butter adds natural creaminess and plant-based protein. Pulse the ingredients a few times to combine them slightly before adding the dates.
- Incorporate Dates and Coconut: Add the softened, drained dates and ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut to the food processor. Blend the mixture in short bursts for 1–2 minutes, or until all ingredients are evenly combined and the mixture comes together as a slightly sticky, cohesive dough. Scrape down the sides of the processor as needed to ensure everything is fully incorporated.
- Adjust Consistency (If Needed): At this stage, check the texture of your mixture. If it feels too wet and sticky to handle, add a small amount of extra oats, one tablespoon at a time, and pulse again. If it seems too dry and crumbly, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it reaches a pliable, moldable consistency. The mixture should hold together easily when pressed between your fingers.
- Shape the Bliss Balls: Using clean hands, scoop out a portion of the mixture roughly the size of a golf ball. Roll it gently between your palms to form a smooth, even sphere. Repeat this process until you have about 9 bliss balls, trying to keep them as uniform in size as possible for even portioning and cooking-free presentation.
- Coat with Coconut: Pour a small amount of shredded coconut onto a plate or shallow bowl. Roll each bliss ball in the coconut until fully coated, gently pressing to make the coconut adhere. This final layer adds a pleasant texture, subtle flavor, and a visually appealing finish.
- Chill and Set: Place the finished bliss balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up. This step ensures they hold their shape when handled and enhances their chewy, blissful texture.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your Chocolate Coconut Date Bliss Balls are ready to enjoy straight from the fridge. They make a perfect on-the-go snack, post-workout treat, or quick energy boost during a busy day.
- Optional Freezing for Later: If you want to prepare these in advance, you can store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 6 weeks. When ready to eat, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Date Choice Matters: Always use Medjool dates for the best texture and natural sweetness. Their soft, juicy flesh creates the perfect chewy consistency, unlike firmer date varieties. Approximately 12 large Medjool dates (200 g) work well for this recipe.
- Soaking Dates: Soaking the dates in hot water softens them and makes them easier to blend. Be sure to press out all excess water afterward to avoid a mixture that’s too wet to roll.
- Adjusting Texture: If your mixture feels too sticky, pulse in extra oats. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it comes together.
- No Food Processor? Mash the soaked dates into a paste and combine with quick or instant oats in a bowl using a spoon or hands. Shape into balls as usual.
- Freezing Tips: These bliss balls freeze beautifully. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 6 weeks, and let them defrost naturally before serving.
