Cashew Date Sesame Energy Balls

These Cashew Date Sesame Energy Balls are packed with protein powder mixed in a chewy and chocolatey, spiced and naturally sweet date base with crunchy cashews rolled in sesame seeds.

You know those days when you just don't know how you will do it all? That to-do list is a mile long and you kinda just don't have the energy to power through. Those are the days that you need to take a few minutes and make yourself a stash of these Cashew Date Sesame Energy Balls. Trust me.

Making a stash of Energy Balls will give you energy

I am speaking from experience here. I try and make a batch of energy balls or granola bars weekly. I've found that if I have them around, I am more likely to reach for this healthier option than a pre-packaged snack. So, I have developed a lot of easy energy bite recipes over the years. Starting with these Basic Energy Balls, my favorite Blueberry Almond Energy Balls and many more!

Life is exhausting in general but when you sprinkle in added stresses, it can be downright overwhelming. Given the speed and unpredictability daily life, it’s a great idea to have energy balls pre-rolled and at the ready. They can serve as breakfast and fill in the gaps between oddly timed meals and late night popcorn binges.

I’m not exactly sure why, but the recipe for my Date Almond Coconut Protein Balls has been one of the most popular recipes of all time here on Baking The Goods as well as on my Pinterest. Maybe it’s the simplicity, maybe it’s that they taste just like an Almond Joy without all of the empty calories, or maybe we all just need an extra boost sometimes. Who knows. Considering the popularity of that recipe, I adapted things a bit and came up with a similar recipe for Cashew Date Sesame Energy Balls.

These Cashew Date Sesame Energy Balls are the ultimate pre or post workout boost

But these Cashew Date Sesame Energy Balls aren’t just for those “break in case of emergency” situations, they are the ultimate pre or post workout boost as well. I’ve been making energy balls for years and they've powered me through many long runs and brutal hikes. They are such a simple thing but a true lifesaver when life strikes and your energy reserves are approaching critical lows.

Just 9 simple ingredients bring big big energy to these Cashew Date Sesame Energy Balls

The simplicity of this recipe is part of its magic. With a thoughtful mix of textures, flavors and spices a whole new level of healthy snacking is easily achieved. The base ingredients bind these energy bites together and the flavorful bits add dimension and unique flavor.

Base ingredients

Dates

The sticky sweet base that pulls these energy bites together starts with nature's candy, sun soaked dates. A gem of a superfood, dates provide natural brown sugary sweetness notes alongside nutrient richness. Dates contain essential vitamins and minerals, making them a great supporter of bone health. And they have a low glycemic index so they don't cause those pesky blood sugar spikes.

Protein Powder

When you need a little extra oomph, protein powder can step in and get the job done. This energy ball uses a plant based pea protein powder from Bob's Red Mill. But if you prefer another type, feel free to swap in what you know works best for you.

Cashews

Cashews are abundant in those heart-healthy fatty acids, you know, the good kind of fats. They are dense in vitamins which means they are providing your body with antioxidants. And they pack in that protein. Plus cashews taste great and add a pleasant nutty crunch to the Cashew Date Chocolate Sesame Energy Balls.

Sesame Seeds

Mildly nutty with slightly earthy undertones, those tiny sesame seeds lend a lot to these energy balls. Small and mighty sesame seeds contain impressive amounts of protein and Vitamin B. Both of which provide lasting energy. These heart-healthy wonders contain healthy fats, fiber and they promote bone and joint health. Plus they are a tasteful companion to the dates, cocoa and cashews. And add a fabulous textural coat to the outside of the energy balls.

The tasty flavor bits

Cocoa Powder

Not only does cocoa powder add a comforting warmth to the sweetness of the dates. It also brings with it a richness in antioxidants. Chocolatey flavor and vitamins? Sign me up!

Vanilla

When layered in with other ingredients, vanilla place an integral supportive role in the overall flavor. The rich vanilla enhances the sweet and cocoa notes of these Date Energy Balls without taking over.

Cinnamon & Cardamom

Spice is just so nice. Especially in the case of a simple recipes with minimal ingredients. The cinnamon and cardamom sprinkle in warm depth and spiced bits of intrigue that carry flavor throughout the energy balls.

Salt

A little salt goes a long way. But the power of salt to enhance the other players in the game never ceases to amaze. Thing of salt as the spotlight that allows all of the other ingredients to shine in their best light.

Cashew Date Sesame Energy Balls have got the goods to get you going

While it may seem extreme to call these balls miraculous, they have truly been there for me during some weak moments. The ingredients just make sense together. A truly nutritious and delicious snack.

Energy balls are an easy snack that roll together quickly

These Cashew Date Sesame Energy Balls roll together in minutes, like under 10 minutes. And the recipes makes a big enough batch to last all week. A truly valuable use of your time, even when you feel like you have no time left to give.

Simple, clean burning energy and pretty much the perfect fuel for every energy zapping situation imaginable.

After some testing, I recently discovered that these Cashew Date Sesame Energy Balls and all of my other energy ball recipes can be pre-made and kept frozen for at least a month when sealed up tight. Total game changer. So, while you have the energy, roll up a batch of Cashew Date Energy Balls and keep them refrigerated up to a week or frozen up to a month for those days when you just can’t seem to make it happen. You’ll thank yourself later. 

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