Cacao & peanut butter power balls (GF).

Serves; 7 balls.

Cooks in; 0 mins.

Preparation time; 10 mins.

Difficulty; easy.

Free from; gluten & dairy

This recipe is for the chocolate craver in the household. Just kidding, these power balls are the perfect sweet kick ready and waiting in the fridge for anyone. Need a chocolate hit after lunch or a reward after finishing your workout. These power balls are a great substitute for the afternoon KitKat, with no refined sugar. Also a great on-the-go snack you can take to the office or train station.

Why cacao?

Cacao powder is rich in nutrients and may have many health benefits;

Digestion;

Cacao powder contains fiber, which can help your digestive system function well. It may also help regulate how the body digests carbohydrates and aids in insulin signaling and secretion, which can help keep blood sugar levels balanced. 

Heart health;

Cacao powder contains flavonoids, which can help lower blood pressure and improve blood flow to the brain and heart. It's also rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.

Energy levels;

Cacao powder contains iron, which can help combat tiredness and maintain healthy red blood cells. It also contains magnesium, which is essential for energy metabolism and healthy psychological function. Some believe that cacao powder can boost energy levels and lift your mood because it contains a compound called phenylethylamine (PEA), which acts as a natural antidepressant to the brain. 

200g of pitted medjool dates

3 tablespoons of smooth peanut butter (I use pip & nut)

2 tablespoons of cacao powder (I use Aduna)

1 tablespoons of chia seeds

1 tablespoon of coconut oil

25g of gluten free oats

20g of ground almond

Ingredients.

  1. Combine the pitted medjool dates, peanut butter, cacao powder, chia seeds, coconut oil, gluten free oats and ground almonds. Mix together in a blender (I use a nutribullet). The mixture is suppose to be ‘tacky’ in texture and will take several blasts in the nurtibullet with ‘strong’ shakes in between the blasts.

  2. When the mixture is well combined and sticky. Roll into ball shapes and place on a tray or plate.

  3. The balls can be eaten straight away. For best results set aside in the fridge for 1-2 hours to harden.

  4. Store in fridge for 3-4 days (if they last that long).

Method.