Indulge in the rich, complex flavors of these Dark Chocolate Mocha Energy Bites – a perfect blend of intense dark chocolate, aromatic espresso, and crunchy hazelnuts. These no-bake treats are not just a delightful snack, but a nutritious powerhouse that will energize your day.
Ingredients
For the Energy Bites
- 1.5 tsp instant espresso powder
- 4 tbsp hot water
- 90g (3.2 oz) unsweetened dark chocolate (85% or higher)
- 100g (3.5 oz) soft Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 125g (4.4 oz) hazelnuts, divided
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Coffee: Dissolve instant espresso powder in hot water and set aside.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- Break dark chocolate into pieces
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each
- Alternatively, use a double boiler
- Prepare the Base:
- In a food processor, combine dates, oats, and 100g of hazelnuts
- Pulse until coarsely chopped and well combined
- Mix the Ingredients:
- Add mashed bananas, melted chocolate, coffee mixture
- Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt
- Pulse until well incorporated but still textured
- Chill and Shape:
- Transfer mixture to a bowl
- Freeze for 5 minutes to firm up
- Roughly chop remaining 25g of hazelnuts
- With wet hands, roll mixture into 1-inch balls
- Roll each ball in chopped hazelnuts
- Serve:
- Enjoy immediately for a soft truffle-like texture
- Refrigerate 30 minutes for a firmer bite
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 12-15 energy bites
- Calories per bite: Approximately 120
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use very ripe bananas for natural sweetness
- Wet hands prevent mixture from sticking while rolling
- Choose high-quality dark chocolate for best flavor
- Toast hazelnuts briefly for enhanced nuttiness
Variations and Substitutions
- Replace hazelnuts with almonds or walnuts
- Use almond butter for added creaminess
- Swap espresso for matcha powder
- Use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are these energy bites vegan? A: Yes, they are completely plant-based!
Q: Can I make these nut-free? A: Try seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds as a nut alternative.
Q: How long do they keep? A: Refrigerate up to 5 days, or freeze for 3 months.
Q: Are they kid-friendly? A: Yes, but consider reducing espresso for children.
Q: Can I use a different type of chocolate? A: Use dairy-free dark chocolate for vegan option.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store in airtight container in refrigerator
- Freeze for long-term storage
- Best enjoyed chilled
- Can be made up to 5 days in advance
Savor these Dark Chocolate Mocha Energy Bites – a sophisticated, healthy treat that satisfies both your sweet tooth and nutritional needs!