Energy Snack Truffles

If you're like me, you're living in a post-Valentine's Day chocolate coma. I let myself indulge in at least half of the oh so satisfying truffles from that iconic heart-shaped box that Zach gifted me as my cheat meal this week. I regret nothing. But, I need to get back on track.

I have a salty sweet tooth, which sounds contradictory. I crave salt and sugar the most when they are together. Peanut butter by the spoonful tops my list as the best snack or pre-workout munch. I often over induldge, sometimes with a little chocolate additive as well, which means too much sugar in my system.

I need to have quick, healthy snacks at my disposal, or else I'll reach for the nearest thing, which could be chocolate and peanut butter. I'm a grazer. I need my snacks. And, I need a boost before my workouts.

I've seen these energy balls all over Pinterest and fitness guru Instagram profiles. The no-bake bites are ideal for that quick fix snack after I get home from work hangry and right before my workout. These are simple, healthy, and satisfy the sweet tooth!

Serves: 20-25 (per recipe)

Recipes listed match image from bottom to top

Peanut Butter Energy Bites (my favorite)

Ingredients:

- 1 C old fashioned oats

- 2/3 C toasted unsweetened coconut flakes

- 1/2 C natural peanut butter

- 1/2 C flax seed (ground)

- 1/3 C honey or agave syrup

- 1 T chia seeds

- 1 tsp vanilla

For chocolate version:

- 1/4 C cocoa powder

For extra protein:

- 3-5 scoops chocolate or vanilla protein powder

Directions:

1. Stir all ingredients

2. Cover bowl and set in fridge for minimum of 30 min

3. Roll chilled mixture into balls of preferred size (mine are 1 inch)

4. Store in airtight container in fridge for up to 1 week

"Sugar" Cookie Energy Bites

Ingredients:

- 2 C cashews

- 12 medjool dates (pits removed)

- 2 tsp vanilla extract

- Pinch or shake of salt

Directions:

1. Place all ingredients in a food processor (might have to split in two batches based on size of processor)

2. Roll into ball shapes, using fingers to press

3. Serve or store in container in fridge

(C)Raisin and Pistachio Energy Bites (my second favorite)

Ingredients:

- 8 oz medjool dates (pits removed)

- 1/2 C honey

- 1 T chia seeds

- 1 T flax seeds (ground)

- 1 1/2 C old-fashioned dry oats

- 1 C pistachio nuts (buy bag with shells pre-removed)

- 1 C craisins or raisin

Directions:

1. Mix dates, honey, chia seeds, flax seeds, and salt in a food processor until smooth

2. Put mixture in medium sized bowl and add the rest of the ingredients

3. Stir until well mixed

4. Place in fridge, covered, for at least 30 min

5. Take out and roll/press with fingers into ball shapes

6. Store in container in fridge

Author's Edit, Feb. 22nd, 2016:

This additional recipe tastes similar to the Jewish recipe for Charoset. Apple cinnamony goodness!

Apple Cinnamon Energy Bites

Ingredients:

- 1 Apple

- 1/4 c sunny seeds

- 1/2 c almond slices

- 1/2 c dates (4 oz)

- 1 c oats

- 1 t honey

- 1 tsp cinnamon

Directions:

1. Put dates and cut and soak in hot water for 10 min

2. Peel and cut Apple into small pieces

3. In food processor mix all ingredients

4. Roll into balls and put in fridge

#Food #Lifestyle #Snack #PeanutButter #Treat #Truffle #Energy #Recipe