Sweet, Salty, & Oh-So-Satisfying: Dark Chocolate Quinoa Energy Balls
Some treats just hit differently. You know the ones—the perfect balance of sweet and salty, rich and satisfying, with a texture that keeps you coming back for more. That’s exactly what these Dark Chocolate Quinoa Energy Balls deliver.
They might taste like candy, but don’t be fooled—these little bites are packed with nutrition, healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants to fuel your body while satisfying your cravings. And the best part? They’re naturally gluten-free, vegan, and made with real, wholesome ingredients.
A Treat That Nourishes
This recipe is one I love to keep stocked in my refrigerator or freezer for those moments when I want a guilt-free, nourishing treat. They’re rich, slightly chewy, and finished with a crunchy quinoa crisp and a sprinkle of sea salt that makes them irresistible.
Why You’ll Love These Dark Chocolate Energy Balls
✔ Naturally sweetened with dates for fiber + minerals
✔ Nourishing healthy fats from walnuts/pecans + almond butter
✔ Rich cacao flavor with a hint of cinnamon
✔ Crispy quinoa crunch for texture + plant-based protein
✔ Finished with dark chocolate + sea salt because… why not?
These energy balls take minutes to make and require no baking—just a food processor and a little patience while the chocolate sets.
Dark Chocolate Quinoa Energy Balls Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups medjool dates, pitted (about 15)
- 1 cup walnuts or pecans
- 3 tbsp raw cacao powder
- ¼ cup almond butter
- ¼ tsp pink Himalayan sea salt
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup quinoa crispies (or crushed rice cakes)
- 1 (3 oz) bar of vegan dark chocolate (or ⅓ cup dark chocolate chips)
- Flaked sea salt for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Blend the Base: Add the pitted dates to a food processor and process until broken apart and sticky (about 30 seconds). Add the walnuts or pecans and blend until evenly combined.
2️⃣ Create the Dough: With the processor running, add cacao powder, almond butter, sea salt, and cinnamon. Blend until a dough forms—you should be able to pinch it together easily. Pulse in the quinoa crispies for a little crunch.
3️⃣ Roll into Balls: Form the mixture into golf ball-sized truffles (you should get 20-24). Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and set aside.
4️⃣ Melt the Chocolate: Using a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate until smooth. Dip the top of each energy ball into the melted chocolate and return them to the baking sheet. While the chocolate is still shiny, sprinkle with flaked sea salt.
5️⃣ Chill & Enjoy: Let them set in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until the chocolate is firm. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days (or freeze for longer storage).
Your Turn!
What’s your favorite after-dinner sweet treat? Are you a fellow chocolate lover like me? Or do you have another nutritious swap you always go for?
I’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below and let me know what you think. If you make these Dark Chocolate Quinoa Energy Balls, tag me on social media so I can see your delicious creations!
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Here’s to mindful indulgence, real-food nourishment, and chocolate that loves you back. 🍫✨
