Cocoa energy bites [GF]

This is my own twist on a Scott Jurek recipe, and one of my favorite recipes of all times. It is a little long to make, but well worth the effort! And yes they do look like little goats poop pebbles but do not let that deter you!!!

Ingredients:

  • 1/2c cocoa nibs, processed into a thin powder – OK to sub with cocoa powder
  • 1/2c cashews
  • 1/4c walnuts
  • 1/4c hazelnuts
  • 1/4c hulled hemp seeds
  • 1/2 c raisins + 1/4c goji berries (or 3/4c raisins)
  • 10 medium Medjool dates (pre-soak or zap in the microwave, in a bowl with some water for 30 sec or so, do it for the raisin an goji berries too if they are a bit on the dry side)
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 tsp espresso powder – optional but a great way to deepen the chocolate flavor
  • 1 tsp mesquite powder – optional
  • small dash vanilla extract
  • larger dash coconut oil
  • 2 TBSP fennel seeds – optional but add a flavorful twist that balances the richness of the mix with a burst of freshness every time you bite on one

 

Directions:

  • powder the cocoa nibs (I use a small coffee grinder, the food processor does not make a fine enough powder)
  • process nuts and hemp seeds, and then add dried fruit to a food processor
  • add cocoa nibs powder and all other powders and spices, minus the fennel seeds
  • add vanilla and coconut oil
  • put the mxture in a bowl, add the fennel seeds
  • roll balls of about 2 to 3 tsp worth by hand
  • keep in the fridge until later… Or enjoy right away

These are about 70 cal/bite and a great way to curve a sweet / chocolate craving. They also are a great little mid-afternoon pick me up. And good for a burst of energy before a workout. Or after. Basically, they’re just perfect all the time!