Super Energy Dessert: No-Bake, No Added Sugar, Gluten-Free! A Healthy Snack for Every Day

Looking for a dessert that’s healthy, energizing, and fits into your daily routine? This super energy dessert is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, no baking required! It’s gluten-free, contains no added sugar, and is packed with wholesome ingredients to keep you fueled throughout the day. Perfect as a snack or even a guilt-free dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of pitted Medjool dates
• 1 cup of raw nuts (almonds, walnuts, or cashews)
• ½ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut
• 2 tablespoons of chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons of flaxseeds
• ¼ cup of natural peanut butter or almond butter (unsweetened)
• 1 tablespoon of cacao powder (for a chocolatey boost)
• ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• Optional: 1 tablespoon of hemp seeds or pumpkin seeds for extra texture and nutrients

Method:

1. Prepare the Dates
   Start by soaking the Medjool dates in warm water for about 10 minutes. This will soften them and make blending easier. Once softened, drain the water and set the dates aside.
2. Blend the Nuts
   In a food processor, add the raw nuts and pulse until you have a coarse meal. You don’t want them too fine, as a bit of crunch adds texture to the dessert. Transfer the ground nuts to a bowl and set aside.
3. Combine the Dates and Nut Butter
   In the same food processor, add the soaked dates and nut butter. Blend until a smooth, sticky paste forms.
4. Add the Dry Ingredients
   To the date and nut butter mixture, add the ground nuts, shredded coconut, chia seeds, flaxseeds, cacao powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Pulse everything together until well combined. You should have a thick, moldable mixture.
5. Shape into Energy Balls or Bars
   Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls, or press the mixture into a parchment-lined dish to create bars. If the mixture is too sticky, you can wet your hands slightly to make shaping easier.
6. Chill and Set
   Place the energy balls or bars in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Once set, they are ready to enjoy! You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for longer-lasting treats.

Why This Recipe Is Great:

• No added sugar: The natural sweetness from dates makes this dessert satisfyingly sweet without the need for any added sugar.
• No baking required: This is a hassle-free, no-bake recipe perfect for busy days.
• Gluten-free: All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this snack accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Rich in energy: Packed with nuts, seeds, and healthy fats, this dessert provides a sustained energy boost.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite superfoods like goji berries, cacao nibs, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and nutrition.

Enjoy!

Whether you need a quick snack before or after a workout, a sweet yet healthy dessert, or an energy boost during the day, these no-bake, sugar-free, gluten-free energy balls or bars are the perfect solution. Healthy snacking has never tasted this good!