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To make these tasty bites, you need key ingredients: - 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted - 1 cup rolled oats - ½ cup raw hazelnuts - ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 2 tablespoons maple syrup - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - A pinch of sea salt These ingredients create a sweet, nutty, and chocolatey flavor. The Medjool dates add natural sweetness and stickiness, helping bind the mixture. Rolled oats give a hearty texture and fiber. The raw hazelnuts add crunch and a rich taste. Cocoa powder brings in that deep chocolate flavor. Maple syrup adds sweetness and moisture, while vanilla extract enhances the overall taste. A pinch of sea salt balances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors. You can make these bites even better with some optional ingredients: - 2 tablespoons nut butter (like almond or cashew) Adding nut butter gives a creamy texture. It also boosts protein and healthy fats. You can choose almond for a mild flavor or cashew for richness. Feel free to experiment with other nut butters too! Each ingredient offers benefits for your health: - Medjool dates: High in fiber, they aid digestion and provide energy. - Rolled oats: A good source of whole grains, they keep you full and satisfied. - Raw hazelnuts: Packed with healthy fats, they support heart health. - Cocoa powder: Rich in antioxidants, it can boost your mood. - Maple syrup: A natural sweetener, it has some minerals like zinc and manganese. - Vanilla extract: Can help reduce stress and improve flavor. - Sea salt: Helps retain hydration and balance electrolytes. By using these ingredients, you enjoy a tasty snack while getting good nutrition. Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes the process smooth and fun. First, take 1 cup of Medjool dates and remove the pits. Next, measure out 1 cup of rolled oats and ½ cup of raw hazelnuts. Grab ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. If you want extra creaminess, have 2 tablespoons of nut butter ready. Use a food processor for best results. Begin by adding the hazelnuts. Pulse them until they are finely chopped, but not turned into butter. This gives the bites a nice crunch. After that, add the dates, oats, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla, and sea salt. If you are using nut butter, now is the time to add it. Process everything until you get a sticky dough. If the mix feels dry, add a teaspoon of water or more maple syrup. Scrape down the sides to help mix it well. Once the dough is ready, fold in the chopped hazelnuts. This adds texture and flavor. Use a tablespoon to scoop out the dough. Roll it into small balls using your palms. Place these energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up. After they set, you can store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for up to two weeks. Enjoy your tasty and healthy snack! Store energy bites in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for two weeks. This way, they stay fresh and tasty. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just place them in a freezer bag. They last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw them in the fridge before enjoying. Feel free to change the texture. If your mix is too dry, add water or more maple syrup. This helps the bites hold together better. If they are too wet, add more oats or cocoa powder. For a richer taste, try adding a bit of nut butter. It makes the bites creamier and more flavorful. Presentation matters! Arrange the energy bites on a pretty plate. Sprinkle cocoa powder or crushed hazelnuts around them. This adds a nice touch. You can also drizzle melted dark chocolate on top. It gives a fancy look and extra flavor. Serve these bites at parties or as snacks. They are sure to impress your guests! {{image_2}} You can change the flavor of your energy bites easily. Try using different nuts. Almonds, walnuts, or pecans work great. You can also swap hazelnuts for seeds like pumpkin or sunflower. These swaps keep it fun and fresh. Want a tropical twist? Add some shredded coconut. For a spicier kick, try a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Get creative and find your favorite mix. If you need nut-free options, this recipe can still shine. Use sunflower seed butter instead of nut butter. You can also replace hazelnuts with seeds, like pumpkin seeds. Oats are naturally gluten-free, but check labels if gluten is a concern. These swaps help everyone enjoy these bites, no matter their diet. Boost the nutrition of your energy bites with simple add-ins. Chia seeds are a great choice. They add fiber and omega-3s. You might also try adding hemp seeds for protein. If you want a protein punch, mix in some protein powder. These options make your bites even more filling and healthy. Don’t be afraid to mix and match! To keep your vegan chocolate hazelnut energy bites fresh, use an airtight container. Place them in the fridge after they set. This helps them stay firm and tasty. You can also layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. These bites last up to two weeks in the fridge. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Just place them in a freezer bag or container. They can last for about three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours. Check for any off smells or changes in color. If they feel sticky or slimy, it’s best to toss them out. Always trust your senses. If something seems off, don’t eat it. Enjoy your energy bites while they're fresh! Yes, you can make these energy bites ahead of time. They keep well in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container for up to two weeks. This makes them a great snack to prep for busy days. If you don’t have Medjool dates, you can use other dried fruits. Try dried figs or prunes. These fruits provide similar sweetness and stickiness. Just chop them finely before adding to the mix. Yes, these energy bites are gluten-free. The main ingredient, rolled oats, is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure you use certified gluten-free oats. This makes them a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities. To change the sweetness, adjust the maple syrup. Add more for a sweeter bite or less for a more subtle flavor. You can also use a sweeter nut butter or add a dash of agave syrup if you like. Absolutely! You can swap hazelnuts for other nuts like almonds or walnuts. Each nut adds a unique flavor and texture. Just remember to chop them well before mixing in. Vegan chocolate hazelnut energy bites are simple to make and fun to customize. You learned about key ingredients, preparation steps, and storing tips. Each element adds both taste and nutrition. You can adjust flavors and make them fit your diet needs. Remember to store them well for longer life. These bites make a great snack or treat anytime. Try different nuts or add seeds. Experiment and enjoy your healthy snacks!

Vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Bites

Indulge in these delicious Vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Bites, a perfect treat for a healthy snack! Made with Medjool dates, oats, hazelnuts, and rich cocoa powder, these no-bake bites are easy to prepare and provide a boost of energy any time of day. Ready in just 45 minutes, they are gluten-free and can be customized with your favorite nut butter. Click to explore the full recipe and get snacking today! #VeganRecipes #HealthySnacks #EnergyBites #ChocolateLovers
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Ingredients
  

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted

1 cup rolled oats

½ cup raw hazelnuts

¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of sea salt

Optional: 2 tablespoons nut butter (like almond or cashew) for added creaminess

Instructions
 

Begin by placing the hazelnuts in a food processor and pulse until they are finely chopped but not turned into a butter. Set aside.

    In the same food processor, add the pitted Medjool dates, rolled oats, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt. If using nut butter, add it at this stage as well.

      Process the mixture until it becomes a sticky dough. You may need to scrape down the sides occasionally. If the mixture is too dry, add a teaspoon of water or more maple syrup until it holds together well.

        Once the dough is ready, fold in the chopped hazelnuts until evenly distributed throughout.

          Scoop small amounts of the dough (about one tablespoon each) and roll them into balls between your palms.

            Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

              Once set, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12-15 bites

                  - Presentation Tips: Arrange the energy bites on a decorative plate and sprinkle some extra cocoa powder or crushed hazelnuts around for an appealing presentation. Optionally, you can drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate on top before serving for an extra touch of indulgence!