Maple Walnut Date Balls
A combination of flavors that is outstanding PLUS is a good option for snack break or breakfast. These date balls are a family favorite. Our debate is over which coating option is better. You'll have to let me know which one is your favorite.
Maple Walnut Date Balls
Yield: makes 16 balls
Ingredients
2 cups walnuts, toasted, plus
1/4 cup walnuts for coating
3/4 cup old-fashioned oats
1/4 cup desiccated coconut
3/4 cup Medjool dates, pitted (or use other favorite soft dates)
3 tbsp maple syrup
2 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp salt
For coating:
1/4 cup walnuts, toasted, finely chopped and/or
1/4 cup desiccated coconut
Directions
Add 2 cups walnuts, oats, coconut dates, maple syrup, vanilla and salt to a food processor. Blend using longish pulses until mostly smooth and the ingredients form a sticky mass that will form into cohesive balls, about 20 - 25 pulses.
Put the coating options (finely chopped walnuts and the desiccated coconut) on separate plates. Have ready a container nearby for the completed balls.
Using a medium cookie scoop, form the dough into 16 balls and roll each ball in the diced walnuts and/or the coconut to coat. Note: It's easier if your hands are a little damp.
Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge for a week, or in the freezer for up to three months. Enjoy!