These Delicious Homemade Sugar-Free Sweets are the perfect guilt-free treat when you’re craving something sweet but want to avoid refined sugars. Made with wholesome ingredients like almonds, dates, and coconut flour, these treats are not only easy and fast to make but also packed with nutrients. The added bonus of a rich chocolate glaze makes them an indulgence you can enjoy without guilt. Ready in just 5 minutes, these sweets are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth any time of day.
Ingredients
For the Sweet Balls:
- Unsalted Raw Almonds: 7 oz (200 g)
- Coconut Flour: 0.7 oz (20 g)
- Pitted Dates: 4.6 oz (130 g)
- Unsalted Peanuts: 1 oz (30 g)
- Honey: 2-3 tablespoons
For the Chocolate Glaze:
- Milk or Dark Chocolate: 4.2 oz (120 g), of your choice
- Oil: 1.2-2 tablespoons
Procedure
1. Grind Almonds and Coconut Flour
- Prepare the Almonds: Begin by placing 200 g of raw almonds in a blender or food processor. Grind the almonds until they reach a coarse, crumbly texture.
- Add Coconut Flour: Add 20 g of coconut flour to the ground almonds and blend again until the mixture is well combined. The coconut flour adds a subtle sweetness and helps bind the mixture together.
2. Blend Dates and Nuts
- Prepare the Dates: Ensure your 130 g of dates are pitted. Add them to the blender with the almond and coconut mixture.
- Add Peanuts: Add 30 g of unsalted peanuts to the blender. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth, semi-wet sand-like consistency. The natural sweetness of the dates will help bind the mixture, creating a dough-like texture.
3. Add Honey
- Sweeten the Mixture: Gradually add 2-3 tablespoons of honey to the blended mixture. Adjust the amount of honey based on the moisture content of the dates and the consistency of the mixture. You should be able to form balls with your hands that are firm and slightly sticky.
4. Forming the Sweet Balls
- Shape the Balls: Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to form small balls, each about the size of a large walnut. If the mixture is too sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up before shaping.
5. Preparing the Chocolate Glaze
- Melt the Chocolate: For the chocolate glaze, melt 120 g of milk or dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler. Add 1.2-2 tablespoons of oil to the chocolate and stir until smooth and glossy. The oil helps to create a shiny and smooth finish for the glaze.
6. Dipping in Chocolate
- Coat the Sweet Balls: Dip each sweet ball into the prepared chocolate glaze, ensuring it is evenly coated. Use a fork to lift the ball out of the chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
7. Setting and Serving
- Harden the Coating: Place the chocolate-coated balls on a wire rack or parchment-lined tray to set. You can speed up the setting process by placing the tray in the refrigerator for a few minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the chocolate has hardened, your sweet balls are ready to enjoy. These treats are perfect for a quick snack, dessert, or to serve at gatherings.
Benefits of Sugar-Free Sweets
- Blood Sugar Control: These sugar-free sweets are ideal for individuals looking to manage their blood sugar levels without sacrificing taste.
- Weight Management: By eliminating added sugars, these treats can support weight loss and maintenance efforts.
- Dental Health: Reduced sugar intake contributes to better oral health and can help prevent cavities.
Tips for Variations
- Nut-Free Option: If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute the almonds and peanuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds. This will still provide a satisfying crunch and flavor.
- Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with adding flavors like cinnamon, vanilla extract, or citrus zest to the mixture for added complexity.
- Coating Alternatives: Instead of chocolate, you can roll the sweet balls in unsweetened cocoa powder or shredded coconut for a different texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
- Servings: Approximately 12-15 balls
- Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per ball
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g (from natural sources and honey)
- Sodium: 5mg
These Delicious Homemade Sugar-Free Sweets are a quick and easy way to enjoy a healthy treat that’s both satisfying and good for you. The natural sweetness of dates, combined with the rich flavor of nuts and a touch of honey, makes these treats a perfect option for any time you need a sweet pick-me-up. Enjoy them with your favorite hot drink or as a delightful snack throughout the day!