Fudgy Cacao and Hemp Protein Bites
In the rising era of home workouts, it's more crucial than ever to have some nourishing, energy-boosting snacks to fuel your body & mind. These little power balls are packed with protein, healthy fats, fibre, and a whole bunch of vitamins & minerals. A special shout out to hemp seeds as a complete protein (containing all nine essential amino acids) to support you with that all-important muscle repair. Chia & flax seeds are optional but I tend to add them to just about anything to reap their health benefits. These bites are also a lovely gift for someone in need of a homemade boost.
Servings: 20 bites
Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
80g walnuts
80g almonds
1 tbsp pumpkin seeds
1 tbsp chia seeds
1 tbsp flax seed
3 tbsp hemp seeds
6 tbsp cacao powder
3 tbsp almond butter (or peanut)
200g pitted medjool dates, chopped (approx 8-9 dates)
1 tbsp coconut oil, melted
extra hemp seeds to coat
Method
Add the walnuts, almonds, pumpkin, chia & flax seeds to a food processor and pulse to form a fine crumb.
Next, add the hemp seeds and cacao powder and pulse a few times to combine fully but leaving the hemp seeds relatively intact.
Finally, add the dates, nut butter, and coconut oil. Pulse again until a sticky mixture has formed (give it a taste and add more cacao/nut butter if you fancy!)
Using your hands, gently roll approx. 1 tbsp of mixture into a ball (damp hands work best to prevent it from sticking). Roughly coat them in extra hemp seeds and spread them out on a baking tray/ plate that will fit in the freezer.
Pop them in the freezer to firm up for 30 minutes then move them to the fridge where they can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 weeks.