Quick and Easy Cashew Date Energy Balls for On-the-Go
Tina BevkThese Cashew Date Energy Balls are an easy, healthy treat made with creamy cashews, naturally sweet Medjool dates, hearty oats, and a burst of fruity flavor from freeze-dried berries. A quick roll in shredded coconut adds the perfect finishing touch! Since they’re no-bake, they come together in minutes—making them perfect for busy schedules and a great snack for kids (or yourself!)
Whether you need a grab-and-go snack, a quick breakfast, a post-workout boost, or a lunchbox treat, these little bites are a delicious and nutritious choice that fits perfectly into any part of your day!
If you’re into quick snack recipes, you might also want to try my “Healthy, Homemade Chewy Granola Bars“ with rice cereal or “Stuffed Dates with Peanut Butter and Chocolate.“ Both are easy, delicious, and perfect for busy days!
Ingredients
- Cashews: Add a smooth texture and healthy fats.
- Medjool Dates: Naturally sweet and sticky, perfect for binding everything together.
- Rolled Oats: Adds heartiness and a bit of chew.
- Freeze Dried Fuit (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries): Brings a pop of fruity flavor and natural sweetness.
- Unsweetened Shredded Coconut: A light, tropical coating that enhances texture and taste.
See recipe card for quantities.
How to Make Cashew Date Energy Balls
Soak the cashews in water for 30 minutes to soften. Drain and pat them dry.
Remove the pits from the dates if they still have them.
Blend the cashews, dates, oats, and freeze-dried fruit in a food processor until a sticky dough forms. Scrape down the sides when needed.
Scoop and roll about 1 tablespoon of dough into small balls. Roll them in shredded coconut if you like. If the dough is too sticky, chill it for a few minutes.
Enjoy immediately or store in the fridge for later.
Hint: If your dates are a little dry, soak them in warm water for 5-10 minutes before blending. This will help the dough come together more easily!
Substitutions & Variations
- For a nut-free option, swap cashews for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
- If you’re out of dates, try using dried figs or raisins instead.
- If you don’t have cashews, almonds, walnuts, or even macadamia nuts will work.
- If you don’t like oats, replace them with an extra ¼ cup of nuts or seeds.
- For a chocolate version, toss in a handful of mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a delicious twist!
💭Crucial Success Tips
- Don’t skip soaking the cashews – this helps them blend into a creamy texture.
- Use fresh, soft dates for the best sticky consistency. If they’re dry, soak them!
- Scrape down the sides of the food processor to ensure even blending.
- Chill the dough for a few minutes if it feels too sticky to roll.
FAQ
Yes! These Cashew Date Energy Balls are perfect for meal prep. Once rolled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just let them sit out for a few minutes before eating if they’ve been frozen.
You can use a high-powered blender, but you may need to scrape it down more often and work in smaller batches.
Cashew Date Energy Balls
Ingredients
- 1½ cups cashews
- 12 Medjool dates pitted
- ¼ cup oats rolled
- 1 cup freeze-dried fruit strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries
- shredded coconut unsweetened, for rolling
Instructions
- Soak the cashews in water for 30 minutes to soften. Drain and pat them dry.
- Remove the pits from the dates if they still have them.
- Blend the cashews, dates, oats, and freeze-dried fruit in a food processor until a sticky dough forms. Scrape down the sides when needed.
- Scoop and roll about 1 tablespoon of dough into small balls. Roll them in shredded coconut if you like. If the dough is too sticky, chill it for a few minutes.
- Enjoy immediately or store in the fridge for later.
Notes
- Don’t skip soaking the cashews – this helps them blend into a creamy texture.
- Use fresh, soft dates for the best sticky consistency. If they’re dry, soak them!
- Scrape down the sides of the food processor to ensure even blending.
- Chill the dough for a few minutes if it feels too sticky to roll.
Nutrition
How To Store Cashew Date Energy Balls
Refrigerate the energy balls in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a sealed container and put in a freezer. They’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.
Author: Tina Bevk
Tina, from the blog “Stretch and Folds,” balances motherhood and a passion for sourdough baking. Based in Slovenia, she offers practical sourdough tips and recipes, bridging European and American baking styles. Her blog simplifies sourdough for busy families, focusing on easy, nutritious sourdough recipes.
