Our kids have been indulging in some serious snacking during lockdown (haven't we all?!), mostly of the sugary variety. Of course, we can - and do - chuck a banana or apple in their direction, but they usually complain about fruit being too boring. Our quest to find more interesting snack options that are low in refined sugar led us to re-visit energy balls. We've made them before without success, but this recipe is a hit. It's a bit like Reece's peanut butter cups, but without the junk. They're sweet enough for the kids to enjoy them and very easy to make (note that you will need a food processor). As always, customise as you like.
- 200g medjool dates
- 30g dark chocolate
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 50g oats
- Coatings of your choice (eg. cocoa powder, crushed nuts, desiccated coconut)
1. Soak the medjool dates in a bowl of boiling water to soften for 15 minutes.
2. Drain the dates and put them in a food processor. Whizz until into a paste.
3. Add the remaining ingredients and whizz again until they all form a thick paste. Use your hands to roll into balls (makes around 18) and coat in a coating of your choice if you like.
4. Put onto a baking tray or plate and put in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Store in the fridge.