Mint Chocolate Energy Bites

Servings 15 bites

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Ingredients

1 cup Medjool dates approx 10 large or 14 small pits removed
1 cup cashews lightly salted
1 Tbsp maple syrup
1/4 tsp peppermint extract can omit if you don't have it
2 Tbsp cocoa powder
4 candy canes
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or semi-sweet

Instructions

In a food processor, combine dates, cashews, maple syrup, peppermint extract, cocoa powder, and 2 candy canes. Blend and pulse until well combined. It may form a ball or just stay the consistency of chunky sand. (This depends on how much moisture the dates have. If the dates are super hard, microwave them for 20 seconds to soften them up and the balls will come together better.)
Dump mixture into a bowl. Add chocolate chips. Crush the remaining two candy canes and add those too. Mix well.
Form into 14 - 16 small balls.
Store in the freezer (4 months) or refrigerator (2 weeks).

Notes

Other Thoughts:

As I mentioned above, if you don't have peppermint extract. Don't sweat it. The candy canes should do the trick.
If you are using unsalted cashews, add a little salt. (~1/8th tsp)
If you store these in the freezer, allow them to thaw just a little before you enjoy so you don't break your teeth.
Naturally gluten free and vegan.

How-to-Use:

Athletes: These are a great and portable pre or post workout snack. If you've got a tough workout, save them for post workout since they do have a decent amount of healthy fats. <<re: will stay put in your stomach longer and may haunt you at higher intensity paces>>

Healthy Eating: What says holiday cheer more than mint chocolate?! Get some healthy fats and complex carbs while you're at it.

Kids: Get those kids in the kitchen to help you roll these balls. Wash their hands first. Nobody wants boogers in their balls.