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Don’t get me wrong, no one loves sweets more than me. My relationship with chocolate, candy, cake, and pretty much any other kind of sweet treat runs deep, real deep, like in my soul deep. But around this time of year, when we’re all still trying to stick to healthy eating resolutions or trying to shed a few pounds, I try really hard to avoid eating too many sweets. Tragic, I know.
So of course with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, what little self control I do have against sugary treats, starts to wane. Who’s idea was it anyway to put a holiday all about love and sweets this close to the turn of the year? The lovin’ I can handle – the sweets I can’t! I have a bone to pick with you, Cupid.
But, I’m not about to ruin all the hours I’ve logged on the treadmill recently. So when I just can’t beat that relentless, nagging chocolate craving, I try to find a smart way to satisfy it. These Chocolate Cherry Energy Bites are just the trick to meet my need for something sweet, but are way healthier than your typical chocolate indulgence. And, they are packed with goodness to help keep your energy level going strong too. Bonus!
These energy bites are so quick and easy to make . With only 5 ingredients and a dash of salt – you can easily keep these ingredients on hand in your pantry to whip these up whenever your chocolate weakness strikes. You can’t beat the classic dark chocolate and cherry combo – and you could even throw in some other spices if you wanted such as cardamom, cayenne, or turmeric for other added health benefits and a little extra flavor. These babies are the perfect fix when you need a little sweetness in your life, but don’t want to over do it. With the sweet chocolate and cherry flavors, and the contrast of the cinnamon and salt – even one is enough to satisfy your sweet tooth.
This recipe makes up a pretty good batch of bites (20-25 depending on how big your roll them), so there are definitely some to eat and some to share. These little gems make a great healthy Valentine’s treat for teachers, busy college students, a health conscious co-worker, your favorite friend who’s trying to watch their waste line, or anyone in your life who needs a little (healthy) sweetness passed their way this Valentines Day. So make a batch and share the love, ya’ll!
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw almonds
- 2 cups pitted dates
- 1 cup dried cherries
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- In a food processor, process the almonds until finely chopped.
- Add in the pitted dates, cocoa, cinnamon, and salt and process until well combined and the mixture sticks together when squeezed between your fingers.
- Add the cherries and process all again until thoroughly combined.
- Scoop the mixture out with a small spoon, and roll between your palms into approximately one-inch sized balls.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze up to 3 months.
