These vegan protein balls with hazelnuts and dates are the ultimate vegan and gluten free truffle-like treat! They are the perfect blend of rich and sweet, with a soft crunchy bite made from wholesome ingredients.
Who doesn't love chocolate and hazelnuts mixed together?! They come together and form the most delicious treat.
These hazelnut date balls are perfect for a morning pick-me-up, afternoon snack, or late night dessert.
What are protein balls?
Protein balls or energy balls or bliss balls are a mixture of fruit, nuts, and additional flavors. Most of these bite-sized treats are sweet in flavor and filling. You can customize your protein balls to include your favorite flavor and textures!
Why you'll love this recipe
- It's no bake! Simply blend everything together, roll into balls, and enjoy. They make for a great on the go snack!
- We might as well call these Ferrero Rocher bliss balls, they taste so similar but of course made at home, with healthy ingredients.
- No oats, no peanut butter, and no protein powder in these energy bites! You can add these ingredients if you wish, but it will alter the taste and consistency.
Ingredients
- Dates: Date fruits are sweet and chewy, with a caramel flavor. They act as the binder in this recipe.
- Hazelnuts: Hazelnuts add a slight nutty flavor. You can substitute with almonds, cashews, pecans, or walnuts but the flavor will vary.
- Cacao powder: You can substitute with cocoa powder. It adds a nice chocolate flavor without added sugar.
- Instant coffee: This is an optional ingredient but makes these energy balls with dates perfect for a morning treat!
- Sea salt flakes: Salt is a great flavor enhancer and helps bring all the flavors together.
Equipment
Buy Hamilton Beach Food Processor
This small kitchen appliance is one of my most-used and well-loved! A food processor is great for making homemade treats like bliss balls, dips, dressings, and more.
How to make vegan protein balls
This protein date ball recipe calls for toasted hazelnuts. This is optional, but highly recommended as toasting hazelnuts enhances their flavor.
To roast hazelnuts, place them on a baking sheet and place in an oven preheated to 350F. Let toast for about 10 minutes, until the skins have darkened and are falling off. Remove from the oven and transfer to a clean kitchen towel to brush off the skins.
Add everything to a food processor or blender and blend until well combined. Using your hands, roll into small balls, and serve or store for later.
If the protein balls aren't coming together, add a tablespoon of water or extra date to the food processor and blend again.
Topping ideas
You don't have to top your bliss balls with anything extra, but if you choose to, here are some popular tips for decorating:
- Roll the balls in chopped nuts for an added crunch.
- Dust with cacao powder to look like a holiday truffle.
- Dip into melted dark chocolate and let cool for a chocolate coating.
How to store leftovers
Vegan protein balls with dates store extremely well! Place in an airtight container then store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freezer for up to 3 months.
Health benefits
These date balls are nutritious and delicious!
- Hazelnut nutrition benefits: Hazelnuts are packed with nutrients and have a high content of protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals. 1 cup of hazelnuts has 20g protein!
- Health benefits of dates: Dates are a great natural source of such. They're also rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber.
- Cacao powder nutrition facts: Raw cacao powder is also an excellent source of antioxidants, as well as minerals like iron, magnesium, and more.
Related recipes
Want more vegan desserts? Try these next:
- Coconut date bliss balls
- Protein fudge
- Blended baked oats
- Dairy free and egg free brownies
- Easy vegan cupcakes
Vegan Protein Balls with Hazelnuts and Dates
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee optional
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup raw hazelnuts
- 1 cup pitted dates about 10-15
- 2 tablespoon cacao powder or cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Whisk instant coffee and water together then set aside. Toast hazelnuts at 350F for about 10 minutes or until fragrant, then let cool and peel off the skins. Don’t worry if you can’t get them all!
- Add everything to a food processor and blend until well combined. Roll into bite-sized balls and enjoy!
- Store refrigerated in an airtight container for about 1 week or freezer for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
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