The Best Kinda Date Balls
Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating love, and what better way to show love than through delicious, homemade treats? This year, ditch the store-bought chocolates and surprise your loved ones with something just as sweet but way more nutritious: The Best Kinda Date Balls! These no-bake delights are packed with natural sweetness, crunch, and a boost of protein. Plus, they’re heart-healthy, gluten-free, and can be easily customized to match your Valentine’s taste preferences. Whether you’re celebrating with a partner, your best friends, or just indulging in some self-love, these little bites of joy will make the perfect treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried dates (pitted and chopped)
- 1/2 cup raw almonds
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup ground flaxseed
- 1 scoop collagen protein powder (or plant-based protein, for a vegan swap)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (PLUS 2 tbsp)
For Matcha Tea-Flavored Date Balls:
- 1/2 tsp fine matcha tea powder
For Pea-nutty-Flavored Date Balls:
- 2 tbsp chopped peanuts
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the dates, almonds, walnuts, ground flaxseed, protein powder, 1/4 cup of the coconut, the flavoring ingredients of your choice, and 2 teaspoons water and pulse until a dough is formed. Add another teaspoon or two of water if needed for the mixture to hold together.
- Spread the remaining 2 tablespoons coconut over a small plate. Roll the dough into twelve 1-ounce balls, then roll each in the coconut to coat, setting the balls on a large plate as you go.
- Freeze the balls for 30 minutes in a sealed container to firm up, and to store any uneaten balls for indulging when your heart desires.
A Valentine’s Day Treat with Meaning
These date balls aren’t just a sweet snack; they represent something deeper – nourishing relationships, self-care, and enjoying simple pleasures. Whether you’re gifting them to your special someone, sharing them at a Galentine’s gathering, or treating yourself to a moment of indulgence, these little delights are sure to spread love and joy.
💖 Happy Valentine’s Day! 💖
