We love to get our hands dirty and make this delicious healthy snack!
Check our instagram for a short video on how to make it ✨
Looking for a quick, nutritious snack that satisfies your sweet cravings while nourishing your body? These cacao powerballs are the perfect solution! Made with dates, pure cacao and wholesome ingredients, they're packed with natural energy and the heart-opening benefits of ceremonial cacao. Whether you need a post-workout boost or a mindful treat during your day, these no-bake energy balls come together in minutes and taste absolutely divine.
Ingredients for Cacao Powerballs
- 400g dates (pitted)
- 50g cacao (we recommend our Matagalpa or Cusco varieties)
- Oats
- Nuts and seeds of your choice (almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds)
- Coconut flakes for coating
- Hot water
How to Make Cacao Powerballs
Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of energy-packed cacao powerballs:
- Prepare a cacao shot: Mix 50g of cacao with 75ml hot water until you have a thick, smooth cacao paste. This concentrated cacao shot will distribute the rich chocolate flavor throughout your powerballs.
- Soak the dates: Place your pitted dates in hot water for a few minutes to soften them. Save the soaking water in a cup - you might need it later to adjust the consistency of your mixture.
- Combine and knead: In a large bowl, mix together the cacao shot, soaked dates, your choice of seeds, nuts, and oats. Knead everything together until you have a thick, moist, and sticky mass. If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of the reserved date water. If it's too wet, add more oats.
- Shape the powerballs: Roll small portions of the mixture between your palms to form bite-sized balls.
- Coat in coconut: Roll each ball in coconut flakes until fully covered. The coconut adds a delightful texture and helps prevent the balls from sticking together.
- Chill and enjoy: Place them in the fridge for 15-30 minutes to firm up. Once chilled, they're ready to enjoy! 🎊
Customization Ideas
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Add crushed nuts for extra crunch and protein
- Mix in dried berries like goji berries or cranberries for a fruity twist
- Sprinkle in cinnamon, vanilla, or cardamom from Guatemala for warming spice notes
- Include a pinch of sea salt to enhance the cacao's complex flavors
- Try adding mushroom powder for additional adaptogenic benefits
Store your balls
Store your cacao powerballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks (though they rarely last that long!). They also freeze beautifully for up to three months.
The Benefits of Cacao in Your Snacks
By incorporating ceremonial cacao into these powerballs, you're not just adding rich chocolate flavor. Cacao supports your heart, enhances mood and positive energy, boosts focus and creativity, and provides gentle, sustained energy without the crash of coffee. It's the perfect ingredient for mindful work sessions or as part of your daily wellness routine.
Have fun making and enjoying these nourishing treats! 😊
