Chocolate Almond Energy Balls
A snack that is not only delicious, but also boosts mental health!
These energy balls are not only delicious, but they’re also filled with functional ingredients that benefit the brain & body. If you’re a dark chocolate lover, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s actually one of the best superfoods for boosting mental health.
Dark chocolate is rich in flavanols, which have been shown to improve blood & oxygen flow to the brain to boost mental focus. It also contains compounds that act as brain stimulants, similar to caffeine but gentler & longer lasting. dark chocolate is also high in magnesium, meaning it has mind-body relaxing benefits. So, it not only satisfies your taste buds, but it also calms your nervous system. Win win.
And lastly, dark chocolate contains a variety of feel-good chemicals, one being the “love chemical”. This is why cacao has been used in ceremony for thousands of years, specifically for its heart opening benefits. It also contains the same chemical that our brains naturally produce when we accomplish something or finish a workout, along with ones that are linked to lowering depression, increasing mood, and improving sleep.
So, if you were looking for an excuse to incorporate more of this food medicine into your diet, you’re welcome. Now go show your brain & body some extra love by making these energy balls!!
RECIPE:
Ingredients:
1 cup raw almonds
1 1/2 cups Joolies organic pitted dates (code grayce)
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup ground flaxseed
1/4 cup cacao powder
1/2 tsp almond extract
2 tbsp warm water
Himalayan pink salt
100% dark chocolate chips/cacao nibs
Directions:
Add almonds to a food processor & lightly pulse until small chunks form. Remove 1/4 cup of mixture and set aside.
Add dates to the food processor with almonds & pulse until combined. Slowly add in almond butter, flaxseed, cacao, almond extract, and water and continue to pulse until a thick dough forms.
Stir in remaining chopped almonds, salt, and chocolate chips. Roll into even sized balls & refrigerate or freeze until firm. Stir in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.