As a health-conscious mom of two wild and crazy kids, I don’t reach for a toxic energy drink when I need a boost. I make my own energy balls with flax meal and espresso powder. Add in the shredded coconut, mild spices and the almond butter, and you have a sweet, protein-packed little nugget of energy! And the cacao power is chock full of powerful antioxidants.
And, bonus, these babies are vegan and gluten-free!
Coconut Mocha Almond Energy Balls
Makes about 16 bites
Ingredients
3/4 cup old fashioned oats (use certified gluten-free oats for gluten-free bites)
1/4 cup ground flax seed
1 teaspoon espresso powder
2 tablespoons unsweetened cacao powder
2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
Pinch of salt
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
pinch of nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup almond butter
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Additional shredded coconut (optional)
Method
Combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.
Cover and place the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour.
Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into a ball. Roll the completed bites in additional shredded coconut, if desired.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
These treats are a great energy boost when you’re lagging in the afternoon, or before you exercise. I put a couple of these in my bus stop survival kit, which also includes snacks for the kids and a bottle of natural degerming spray.
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Photo Credit: jdecedue via Compfight cc
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