The Ultimate Raw Chocolate Paleo Protein Balls

I have to admit, most bliss balls I've tried are a bit disappointing. They look great, but when I buy one and eat it, it's just not that good. Not sure what the deal is, but rather than trying to figure it out, I decided to try my hand at making my own to see if I could step up the game a little. Not to toot my own horn or anything, but these are pretty damn delicious. 

They're not overly sweet, but they definitely have a nice caramel-y like sweetness from the dates. Dates provide enough natural sugar that I did not need to use any added sweetener. While Medjool dates do have a fairly high sugar content, they also have a broad range of nutrients in them as well. They are high in fiber, potassium and copper making them live up to their name as "the King of dates." 

The Ultimate Raw Chocolate Paleo Protein Balls

Makes 15 - 20 balls (depending on how large or small you make them!)

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup Medjool dates
• 3/4 cup almonds
• 3/4 cup walnuts or any other nuts you have on hand
• 2 Tbsp chia seeds
• 2 Tbsp ground flax seeds
• 1 Tbsp coconut oil
• 1 Tbsp hemp protein powder (I use Nutiva brand)
• 1 Tbsp raw cacao powder
• dash of cinnamon
• pinch of salt

Directions: 

In a food processor, whiz the dates, nuts and seeds first. Make sure the dates and nuts are thoroughly ground up before you add the rest of the ingredients. Pulse until everything is well combined. Use your hands to roll the mixture into balls. You can add a 'fawncy' touch by rolling the balls in shredded coconut, sesame seeds, chia seeds, etc. to add a little crunchy coating to the outside. Store in the fridge or, if you don't think you'll eat them all within a week (doubtful), keep in the freezer. 

Enjoy!

Steph x