This past year I made a conscious decision to try to omit sugar from my diet. I notice how much better I feel when I don’t eat it and over time the cravings do go away. However I do still enjoy something sweet late afternoon or after a meal. Fruit is always a go to for me but sometimes I just want chocolate! I do always have a little dark chocolate hidden away for those days when I need a pick me up.

About a month ago I taught a healthy snacks class where I included some of my all time favorite ball recipes made with variations of dried fruit, nuts and seeds. I wanted to include something a little more decadent and something that satisfied my love of chocolate.

I did a little research online and found the bliss ball.  After some experimenting I came up with my own version that included 4 simple ingredients. It was an absolute hit with those who took the class, a favorite over all.

These little balls pack a powerful, protein-filled punch and taste just like a chocolate truffle!  I always double the recipe because let’s face it I cannot eat just one and Hannah loves them too.

 

Bliss Balls

1/4 cup cocoa powder

1/4 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup walnuts (preferably soaked for 2-4 hours)

1 1/4 cup dates

 

Place all four ingredients into food processor and grind until a moist ball of dough forms.  Roll the dough into balls. They are delicious just plain but have fun experimenting with different coatings such as sesame seeds, hemp seeds, chia seeds, flax seeds, shredded coconut, cinnamon, cocoa powder, chile powder, grated citrus peel.

We store ours in the freezer as they are a bit too sticky if left out.