Lemon Date Balls

Why you'll love this recipe

• No bake: Lemon energy balls require almost zero prep work and minimal cleanup. Just blend in the food processor, roll into balls, and let chill in the fridge.
• Small batch: This recipe was developed when I needed a quick dessert and wanted to clean out the pantry. Double the recipe for meal prep or serving a large party.
• Easy to adapt: Missing an ingredient? See the ingredient notes and recommended substitutions below.

Ingredients

• Cashews: Raw cashews have a mild, nutty and buttery flavor with a soft, creamy texture. You can substitute with macadamia nuts, almonds, pecans, or walnuts.
• Dates: To cut down on prep time, use pitted medjool dates. My favorite brands are Natural Delights and Thrive Market. (By the way, check out my Thrive Market Review!)
• Coconut: I suggest unsweetened desiccated coconut or shredded coconut to control the overall sweetness.
• Lemon: Use a zester to zest the lemon and then a citrus squeezer to get all the fresh lemon juice.
• Salt: A touch of salt enhances the flavor and brings everything together.

How to make lemon bliss balls

The full measurements and directions are below in the recipe card.

1. Add raw cashews, pitted dates, coconut flakes, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt to a food processor.
2. Pulse until well combined, scraping down the sides of the food processor bowl as needed.
3. Roll into small balls. Enjoy immediately or let chill in the fridge before serving.

Date ball tips

• If you don’t have medjool dates, you can substitute with another variety of dates, such as deglet noor dates.
• Medjool dates are naturally soft, if the alternative is more firm, soak them in hot water to soften.
• If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of cold water and blend together. If it’s too wet, add a tablespoon or two of coconut.
• Toss in a tablespoon of add-ins like seeds or additional nuts.

Related recipes

Want more vegan dessert recipes? My vegan lemon loaf cake is bursting with fresh lemon flavor. This vegan olive oil cake is soft, moist, and great for any occasion. If you really want to impress guests, try my vegan madeleines!