You know that mid-afternoon slump where you’re debating a third coffee or raiding the snack cupboard? I’ve been there more times than I’d like to admit. That’s exactly why I started whipping up these no-bake hazelnut energy balls. They’re my secret weapon for a quick, healthy boost that actually tastes like a treat. The best part? We’re talking about just 10 minutes of prep for a whole week of awesome snacks.
Try my Lemon Chia Energy Balls recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Seriously, what’s not to love? Here’s the lowdown on why this recipe is about to become your new go-to:
→ The Ultimate Grab-and-Go Snack. Forget overpriced, mystery-ingredient bars. These little powerhouses are perfect for stashing in your bag for a healthy boost whenever (and wherever) hunger strikes.
→ Seriously, Just 10 Minutes of Prep. You read that right. In the time it takes to watch a few TikTok videos, you can have these made. No fancy skills required just a food processor and a craving for something good.
→ No Baking Required. Your oven gets a day off! The only heat you’ll use is for toasting the hazelnuts to make them extra yummy. It’s the perfect recipe for a hot day or when you just can’t be bothered to turn on the oven.
→ Tastes Like a Treat, Fuels You Like a Champ. With rich dark chocolate, sweet dates, and roasted hazelnuts, these taste indulgent. But they’re packed with natural energy and good-for-you fats, so you can enjoy one (or two) without the crash.
→ Customize Your Heart Out. Not a hazelnut person? No problem! Swap them for almonds or walnuts. Want a kick? Add a pinch of cinnamon. This recipe is a fantastic base for your own creations.
→ Kind to Your Wallet. Making these at home saves you a ton of cash compared to the store-bought kind. For about the price of one fancy coffee, you get a whole week’s worth of snacks
Try my Matcha Energy Bites recipe.
What You’ll Need To Make
What I love most about this recipe is how a few simple, real ingredients come together to make something that tastes so indulgent. Let me break down the dream team:
NOTE: For measurements and rest of the ingredients check the recipe card below.
→ Medjool Dates: Think of these as nature’s perfect sweetener and glue! 🎯 They’re super soft and sticky, which gives our energy balls that perfect chewy texture and a caramel-like sweetness without any refined sugar.
→ Hazelnuts: We’re not just throwing these in raw we’re giving them a quick toast first! ✨ This wakes up their oils and gives them that deep, nutty flavor that makes you think of… well, Nutella, but way better for you.
→ Dark Chocolate: We’re using the good stuff 85% dark chocolate! 🍫 It adds a rich, deep chocolate flavor without being overly sweet. It’s the perfect grown-up counterpoint to the sweet dates, plus you get all those antioxidant benefits.
→ Coconut Oil: This is our magic helper! It helps the chocolate melt smoothly for mixing and drizzling, and a little bit in the mix helps bind everything together and adds a hint of healthy fats.
See? No crazy, hard-to-find ingredients. Just wholesome stuff that works together to create a seriously delicious and energizing bite
What You’ll Need To Do
Time required: 10 mins Serves:8 energy balls
Alright, let’s get these no-bake beauties made! It’s as easy as 1-2-3 (and a little bit of rolling).
1. Toast Those Hazelnuts: First things first, let’s wake up the flavor of our hazelnuts! Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C). Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for about 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen smells amazing and they’re lightly toasted. Let them cool off for about 5 minutes we don’t want melted chocolate fingers!
2. Become a Melting Pro: While the hazelnuts are cooling, it’s melting time! Grab a small bowl and toss in your 1 oz. of dark chocolate and the tablespoon of coconut oil. Melt them together in the microwave in short bursts, or in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until it’s one gloriously smooth and shiny pool of chocolatey goodness.
3. The Big Mix-Down: Now for the main event! Throw your warm, toasted hazelnuts, the pitted dates, vanilla extract, and that melted chocolate mixture into a food processor.
4. Pulse Until Magic Happens: Secure the lid and let it rip! Process for 2-3 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides if you need to. You’re looking for the mixture to clump together into a sticky, uniform “dough.” If it seems a little dry and isn’t sticking, just add a teaspoon of water or almond milk and pulse again until it plays nice.
5. The Cool-Down: This dough can be a bit eager, so let’s chill it out literally! Scoop the mixture into a bowl and refrigerate it for about 10 minutes. This just makes it so much easier to roll without sticking to your hands.
6. Roll, Drizzle, and Decorate! Time for the fun part! Take the chilled dough and roll it into 8 even-sized balls. Place them on a plate or baking sheet. Now, get artistic! Drizzle them with the extra melted chocolate and sprinkle with the chopped hazelnuts for that professional, “I-definitely-bought-these-at-a-fancy-cafe” look.
7. Enjoy! Pop them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be happy there for up to 10 days… if you can make them last that long
Glycemic Index (GI): Low (Approx. 30-35)
Glycemic Load (GL): Low (Approx. 4-5)
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Easy Ingredient Swaps
Here are some simple and delicious swap ideas for your Hazelnut Energy Balls, perfect for using what you have on hand.
Nut Swap Ideas:
- Hazelnuts → Almonds or Walnuts. Almonds will give a classic flavor, while walnuts add a lovely, earthy depth.
- Hazelnuts → Pecans. For a buttery, rich twist, pecans are a fantastic choice.
- Hazelnuts → Sunflower Seeds. Make it nut-free! Toasted sunflower seeds are a great alternative.
Date Swap Ideas:
- Medjool Dates → Prunes or Dried Figs. Both are sticky and sweet, and will work perfectly as a base.
- Medjool Dates → Soft Raisins or Dried Apricots. Just make sure they’re nice and soft! If they’re a bit dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes first.
Chocolate & Flavor Swap Ideas:
- Dark Chocolate → Cacao Powder. Use 2 tablespoons of cacao powder instead of the melted chocolate in the mix.
- Vanilla Extract → Almond Extract. Just use 1/2 teaspoon, as it has a stronger flavor.
- Add a Spoonful of Nut Butter. A tablespoon of almond or peanut butter will make them extra creamy and rich.
- Spice it Up! Add a pinch of cinnamon, a dash of espresso powder, or even a tiny bit of cayenne pepper for a kick!
Coating Swap Ideas:
- Melted Chocolate & Hazelnuts → Roll in shredded coconut, cacao powder, or crushed pretzels for a fun, different look and texture.
Pro-Tip: No matter what you swap, the key is that your mixture should be sticky enough to roll into balls. If it’s too dry, just add a tiny bit more of your wet ingredient (like nut butter or a teaspoon of maple syrup) until it holds together
Try my Carrot Cake Energy Balls recipe.
Twist and Tweak Ideas
Feel like playing mad scientist in the kitchen? Here are some easy ways to mix up the flavors and keep things exciting!
For the Coffee Lover:
- The Mocha Twist: Add 1-2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder or fine-ground coffee to the food processor. It’ll create a rich mocha flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate and hazelnuts.
For a Tropical Vibe:
- Sunshine Balls: Swap the hazelnuts for macadamia nuts and add 2-3 tablespoons of unsweetened shredded coconut to the mix. It’s like a vacation in a bite!
For a Protein Boost:
- Power-Up Balls: Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of your favorite vanilla or chocolate protein powder after processing. You may need to add an extra teaspoon of milk or water to keep the mixture sticky.
For a Sweet & Salty Fix:
- Salted Pretzel Crunch: Instead of rolling them in chopped hazelnuts, roll the finished balls in crushed pretzel bits. Finish with a tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the chocolate drizzle. Chef’s kiss!
For a Superfood Kick:
- Zen Mode: Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or milled flaxseed to the processor for an extra fiber and omega-3 boost. You won’t really taste them, but you’ll get the benefits!
For a Flavor Fiesta:
- Spicy Aztec: Add a pinch of cinnamon and a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. It creates a wonderfully complex and slightly warm flavor profile.
The Simple Swap:
- Peanut Butter Cup: Replace the hazelnuts with peanuts and use peanut butter as your binding agent instead of the extra milk/water. It’s a classic combo for a reason
Try my Maple-Coconut Raffaello Energy Balls recipe.
Helpful Tips for Success
These little tips will make the process even smoother and help you customize the texture to be absolutely perfect.
1| Pit Those Dates Like a Pro: Double-check that your Medjool dates are truly pitted. There’s nothing worse than a surprise crunch that shouldn’t be there!
2| The Stickiness Test: After processing, grab a small bit of the mixture and squeeze it in your palm. If it holds together firmly, it’s perfect. If it crumbles, it needs a bit more liquid.
3| Wet Hands are Your Friend: If the dough is a little sticky when rolling, lightly dampen your hands with water. This prevents the mixture from sticking to your palms and makes rolling a breeze.
4| Soak for Easier Blending: If your dates are a bit dry or old, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using. Just be sure to drain them well and pat them dry!
5| Chill for the Best Shape: Don’t skip the 10-minute chill! It makes the dough less sticky and much easier to roll into neat, round balls.
6| Get Creative with a Piping Bag: For super neat chocolate drizzles, put your melted chocolate in a small zip-top bag, snip a tiny piece off the corner, and use it like a piping bag.
7| Freeze for Later: These are perfect for making ahead! Place the rolled balls on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge for an hour before you need a snack.
Try my Cranberry Almond Energy Bites – Christmas Treat recipe.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Love the recipe but want to make it even kinder to your wallet? Here are my favorite hacks to cut costs without cutting flavor:
1| Buy Nuts in Bulk: Hit the bulk bins at your grocery store! You can buy exactly the 4.8 oz of hazelnuts you need, which is almost always cheaper than buying a pre-packaged bag.
2| Swap for a Cheaper Nut: Hazelnuts can be pricey. Almonds or walnuts are often more affordable and work just as wonderfully in this recipe.
3| Choose Store-Brand Chocolate: Opt for the store-brand (generic) dark chocolate baking bar instead of a name-brand one. The flavor difference is minimal, but the savings are real!
4| Check the “Nuts About Chocolate” Aisle: Sometimes, those big bags of chocolate-covered nuts or trail mixes with dark chocolate pieces are on sale. You can chop them up and use them in place of the separate hazelnuts and chocolate.
5| Skip the Decoration: The drizzled chocolate and extra hazelnuts on top are for looks (though they are delicious!). For a purely functional and frugal snack, you can skip this step entirely the balls will still taste amazing.
6| Make a Double Batch: It costs barely any more in active time, and having a ready-made snack in the freezer prevents those expensive, impulse buys on packaged bars when you’re out and about.
Try my Ginger Energy Balls (Christmas Treat) recipe.
Serving Ideas
These little guys are versatile! Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy them beyond just a simple snack.
1| The Ultimate Pre-Workout Boost: Grab one about 30 minutes before your workout. The natural sugars from the dates give you quick energy, while the nuts and chocolate provide staying power.
2| Your New Desk Mate: Keep a few in a container at your office for that classic 3 PM slump. It’s the perfect pick-me-up to avoid the vending machine.
3| A Fancy (Yet Easy) Dessert: Serve two on a little plate with a cup of coffee or herbal tea after dinner. It feels like a decadent treat, but you know it’s made with wholesome ingredients.
4| Packed Lunch Superstar: Tuck one into a lunchbox yours or your kid’s! It’s a healthy dessert or snack that travels like a champ.
5| The Hike Hero: These are a lifesaver on the trail. They’re compact, won’t get smashed easily, and provide a great energy boost with a beautiful view.
6| With a Side of Sunshine: For a more substantial snack, I love having one with a piece of fresh fruit, like an apple or a handful of berries. It’s the perfect balanced combo!
7| The “I Need Chocolate Now” Solution: Keep them in the freezer for a cool, firm, and incredibly satisfying treat that crushes any ice cream craving.
Try my Keto Almond Butter Energy Balls recipe.
Storage Tips
These are perfect for making ahead! Here’s exactly how to store them to keep that perfect texture.
Refrigerator (The Go-To Method):
- The Vessel: Always store them in an airtight container. A glass jar or plastic Tupperware works great.
- The Setup: To prevent sticking, you can place a small piece of parchment paper between layers.
- The Timeline: They will stay fresh and delicious in the fridge for up to 10 days.
Freezer (The Meal-Prep Hero):
- The Trick: First, spread the balls on a baking sheet and flash-freeze them for about 1-2 hours, or until they’re solid. This prevents them from all freezing together in one big clump.
- The Storage: Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
- The Timeline: They will keep perfectly for up to 3 months in the freezer!
Try my Coconut and Lemon Bliss Balls recipe.
Final Thoughts
And that’s it, my friend. You’re now officially a energy ball pro. I really hope this recipe becomes a trusty sidekick in your kitchen like it is in mine. Give one of these little guys a try next time you need a pick-me-up I have a feeling you’re going to love them. Happy snacking
Recipe Card
Hazelnut Energy Balls
Craving a healthy pick-me-up? My no-bake energy balls are here to save the day! 🤩 Made with roasted hazelnuts and rich dark chocolate, they're the perfect natural energy boost. ⚡
Ingredients
For decoration:
Instructions
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Roast the Hazelnuts:
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Preheat the oven to 320°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Arrange the hazelnuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
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Roast for approximately 10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
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Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes.
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Melt the Chocolate Mixture:
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Combine the 1 oz. (30g) of dark chocolate and the coconut oil in a small heatproof bowl.
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Melt using a double boiler or in short intervals in a microwave, stirring until smooth. Set aside.
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Process the Ingredients:
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Transfer the cooled, roasted hazelnuts to the bowl of a food processor. Add the pitted dates, vanilla extract, and the melted chocolate and coconut oil mixture.
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Process the mixture for 2-3 minutes, until it forms a cohesive, sticky dough. If the mixture is too dry and does not hold together, add one teaspoon of water or almond milk and process again until combined.
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Form the Energy Balls:
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Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm.
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Once chilled, divide and roll the dough into 8 evenly sized spheres.
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Place the balls on a parchment-lined plate or tray.
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Apply the Decoration:
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Drizzle the energy balls with the remaining 3 oz. (85g) of melted dark chocolate.
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Immediately sprinkle with the chopped hazelnuts before the chocolate sets.
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Storage:
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Store the finished energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
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Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 185kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12g19%
- Total Carbohydrate 19g7%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 15g
- Protein 3g6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
