anti-inflammatory energy balls
These anti-inflammatory energy balls are a deliciously chewy, nutrient-packed snack that supports overall wellness with anti-inflammatory ingredients. Perfect for quick bites, they are easy to make, naturally sweetened, and customizable for dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted dried dates
- 1/3 cup packed unsweetened dried tart cherries
- 1/2 cup unsalted unsweetened almond butter
- 1/4 cup whole-milk plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 ounce dark chocolate (70%), broken into pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Place dates and dried cherries in a small heatproof bowl, then cover with boiling water. Let them soften for about 10 minutes before draining thoroughly.
- Transfer the drained fruit to a food processor. Pulse about 5 times until they’re coarsely chopped.
- Add almond butter, yogurt, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt. Pulse 5-10 times to create a smooth mixture.
- Pour in the rolled oats and pulse again 10-15 times until everything is evenly combined. If the mixture seems too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time.
- Scoop the mixture into a bowl, cover it, and refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up.
- Scoop out 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a 1-inch ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture to make 10 energy balls.
- Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl by microwaving on high for 1 minute, stirring halfway through.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over the rolled balls and sprinkle with cinnamon. Refrigerate uncovered for at least 10 more minutes to set.