by Jenna Verhoeven
Sometimes being a student means falling into a bit of a cliché; long study sessions, fueled by lots of sweet treats, coupled with limited budget and time for eating healthy. I think it is high time we break the mould!
In an attempt to prevent money being frizzled on power snacks that might not be the best option for my brain health, I like to make sure there are plenty of satisfying snacks in the house before I start a major study-session or assignment smashing. These energy balls are also a pretty nice alternative to a chocolate bar or cookie for when the dreaded 3:30-itis strikes, and they have some powerful brain and muscle fuel, should you choose to snack post work out or mid study session.
This recipe makes about 12-15 energy balls (depending on how big you roll them). They last well in the fridge in a sealed jar or container, and the best thing about them is you can alter the nuts / seeds you use for whatever you have on hand!
INGREDIENTS
- 12 dates (pitted) – if using dried dates (soak them in a little boiled water first)
- ½ cup of raw almonds
- ¼ cup of coconut (shredded or desiccated)
- ¼ sunflower seeds
- ¼ vanilla or chocolate protein powder (I use a pea protein, but feel free to use your preferred source)
- 2½ tbsp of coconut oil
- drizzle of the leftover ‘date water’ or a tsp of warm water
- sesame seeds or coconut for rolling
METHOD
- In a food processor, blitz the almonds, sunflower seeds, coconut and protein powder until it makes a course crumb.
- Add in the dates and coconut oil, blend again; it should start to come together.
- Test the mix for its ‘sticking power’. If it is too dry and crumbly, add a small drizzle of water and mix again.
- Once the mix is well combined, pinch out some ‘dough’ and roll it into a ball.
- Once you’ve rolled out all 12-15 balls, feel free to roll through some sesame seeds or coconut.
- Chill in the fridge for a few hours; enjoy when a reward is required. Enjoy!
