If you’re a frequent reader of my blog, it’s no secret that I’m obsessed with chocolate. I’m pretty sure half of the recipes on this site feature chocolate in some form. While rich and delicious, chocolate is not always the healthiest option element of a diet. Obviously, that depends on what kind of chocolate you’re consuming (milk vs dark, raw vs processed, etc), but I’m always looking for some healthy way to get some chocolate flavor throughout the day.
Enter: chocolate protein powder and raw cacao powder.
First, you might be wondering what the difference between cocoa and cacao powder is. Raw cacao powder is much less processed and the purest form of chocolate. It contains a variety of antioxidants and minerals. If you don’t have raw cacao powder handy, cocoa powder will work fine, as it still retains some antioxidants after processing.
Now back to the recipe. These bites are no bake and amazing cold and frozen. Add a drizzle of PB2 or real peanut butter for extra flavor and filling power. Also, did I mention these are vegan, dairy, and gluten-free?
Ingredients
- 1 cup oats
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1 cup medjool dates
- 4 tbs vegan protein (I used Vega Chocolate)
- 2 tbs raw cacao powder
- Optional PB2 or peanut butter
Directions
- Soak the medjool dates in hot water 10 minutes before using.
- In a food processor, process the cashews and oats until both form a flour.
- Add the protein powder and cacao powder, pulse until combined with the oats and cashews. Set this mixture aside.
- Drain the water from the dates.
- Add a small amount of dates into the food processor along with a small amount of the chocolate flour mixture. About 1/4 cup of each should work.
- Pulse until both form a paste. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides, adding a tablespoon or two of water to make it easier to pulse.
- Continue with the rest of the dates and flour mixture.
- Take the dough and roll small balls.
- Freeze the balls for at least two hours before eating.
- Drizzle with peanut butter or PB2 if desired.
- Enjoy!
