Snacks

Cranberry and Coconut Energy Balls Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt

Special Equipment Needed:
- Food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a food processor, pulse the dates until they form a sticky ball.
2. Add the shredded coconut, dried cranberries, almond butter, chia seeds, honey, vanilla extract, and salt to the food processor. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and forms a sticky dough.
3. Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough and roll it into balls.
6. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Refrigeration time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Refrigerate at 40°F or below.
Serving size:
- Makes approximately 20 energy balls.

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 118
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can substitute the almond butter with any other nut butter.
- You can substitute the dried cranberries with any other dried fruit.

Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the mixture for a chocolatey flavor.
- Roll the energy balls in extra shredded coconut or chopped nuts for added texture.

Tips and Tricks:
- If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together.
- If the mixture is too wet, add more shredded coconut or chia seeds until it firms up.
- Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Storage Instructions:
- Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Reheating Instructions:
- These energy balls are best served cold and do not need to be reheated.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the energy balls on a platter with fresh fruit and nuts for a healthy snack board.

Garnishes:
- Garnish the energy balls with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder.

Pairings:
- Serve the energy balls with a glass of almond milk or coconut water for a refreshing drink.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- These energy balls make a great snack on their own, but you can also serve them with fresh fruit or a salad for a more substantial meal.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together.
- If the mixture is too wet, add more shredded coconut or chia seeds until it firms up.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands before handling the ingredients.
- Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Food History:
- Energy balls have become a popular snack in recent years due to their convenience and health benefits.

Flavor Profiles:
- These energy balls have a sweet and nutty flavor with a chewy texture.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the energy balls as a snack or as a healthy dessert option.

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Taste: Sweet, Tart, Nutty, Coconutty