If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s both delicious and nutritious, these no-bake energy candies are the perfect solution. Made with wholesome ingredients and free of added sugars, these candies are packed with natural sweetness, protein, and fiber. They’re easy to make and require no baking, making them an ideal snack or dessert when you’re short on time. Whether you need a quick energy boost or a healthy treat, these candies are sure to satisfy your cravings in the healthiest way possible.
Ingredients:
- 3.5 ounces dates (pitted)
- 1 ½ cups oatmeal
- 1.8 ounces raisins
- 2.8 ounces salted peanuts
- 1 ounce pumpkin seeds
- 1 ounce sunflower seeds
- 1 tablespoon natural honey
- 2.8 ounces dark chocolate (sugar-free if desired)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Soften the Dates: Place the pitted dates in a bowl and cover them with warm water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes to soften, which will make them easier to blend.
- Chop the Nuts and Seeds: While the dates are soaking, roughly chop the salted peanuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds. You want the pieces to be small enough to mix well with the other ingredients but still add some texture to the candies.
Step 2: Make the Energy Candy Mixture
- Blend the Dates: Drain the soaked dates and place them in a food processor. Blend until they form a smooth paste. The dates will act as a natural sweetener and binder for the candies.
- Add the Oatmeal and Raisins: Add the oatmeal and raisins to the food processor with the date paste. Pulse the mixture a few times until the oats and raisins are well incorporated.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the date mixture with the chopped peanuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds. Add the tablespoon of natural honey and mix everything together until you have a sticky, well-combined mixture.
Step 3: Shape the Candies
- Form the Candies: Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls or press them into small squares.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate until smooth. If you’re using a microwave, heat in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between to avoid burning.
- Coat the Candies: Dip each candy ball or square into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are well-coated. You can also drizzle the chocolate over the top if you prefer a lighter coating.
Step 4: Set and Serve
- Set the Candies: Place the coated candies on a parchment-lined tray and allow them to set in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened.
- Serve: Once set, your healthy no-bake energy candies are ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to a week.
Conclusion
These healthy no-bake energy candies are a perfect example of how delicious and nutritious can go hand in hand. Made with natural ingredients like dates, nuts, seeds, and oatmeal, they provide a great source of energy, fiber, and healthy fats. The dark chocolate coating adds a touch of indulgence without compromising on health benefits. Best of all, they’re easy to make and require no baking, making them a convenient treat for any time of day. Enjoy these guilt-free candies as a snack, dessert, or even a quick breakfast on the go!