Chocolate Cherry Energy Bites

I’ve already professed my love for energy bites in my Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ball post. They’re a super customizable, portable, easy to make, nutritious and well-balanced snack or sweet treat.

The flavor and ingredient combos are endless. I decided to go with one of my personal favorites: dark chocolate and cherries. Cacao and chocolate chips lend a rich chocolate flavor, while dried cherries provide a subtle sweetness. Here are some of the nutrition highlights:

Oats: A whole grain high in soluble fiber, which slows digestion and increases fullness. They’re also loaded with minerals including manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc and iron.

Cacao: Just a few tablespoons provides a healthy dose of flavanol antioxidants, iron, and magnesium (which is needed for muscle and nerve function, the immune system, bone health, and more).

Almonds & Almond Butter: Almonds are nutrient-powerhouses. The combo of healthy fats, protein, and fiber help keep you full and satisfied. Plus, they’re high in antioxidants like vitamin E, which helps repair cell damage.

Dried Cherries: Cherries are loaded with nutrients and provide a natural source of melatonin, a hormone that regulates your sleep-wake cycles.

Chocolate Cherry Energy Bites

Makes approx. 20-24 energy bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 1/2 cup almonds or walnuts

• 3 Tbsp cacao powder

• 1/4 cup almond butter

• 2 Tbsp maple syrup

• 1 Tb coconut oil

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• pinch of sea salt

• 1/2 cup dried cherries

• 1/2 cup mini dark chocolate chips (non-dairy if vegan)

Instructions:

1. Blend oats in a food processor until a fine flour forms (about 1 minute).

2. Add almonds, cacao powder, almond butter, coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla and sea salt to the food processor. Blend until a dough begins to form (about 1-2 minutes).

3. Add dried cherries and chocolate chips, blend until completely combined.

4. Roll dough into 1 inch balls. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.