Apricot & Hazelnut Power Balls

Power balls are an easy way to make sure you are getting all the protein, nutrients, and energy you need throughout the day. Easy to make, easy to pack, and easy to snack on even during the busiest of days. Make a big batch in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. You can pack a couple in a baggie and bring them with you where ever you go. They’ll fill you up more than a big dinner without weighing you down and are easily customizable if you feel like changing the flavor by switching the nuts or seasoning. his recipe is light, sweet and orangey to wake up your senses just when you feel your energy levels begin to drop.

You’ll need:

• 3/4 cup dried apricots
• 1/2 cup hazelnuts
• 2 tbsp chia seeds
• 1tbsp coconut oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp orange zest
• coconut flakes (sugar free)

Directions

Toss everything but the coconut flakes in the Cuisinart and give it a whir until everything is nice and smooth. You may need to stop the machine and push down the sides. For more chunky apricot bits, add half of them only at the very end and pulse it a few times. You are also welcome to add in flax seeds, oats, sunflower seeds or almonds if you like. The texture should be like a firm but creamy putty. Add more coconut oil if it needs to be smoother or nuts if thicker.

Scoop out small amounts with a spoon and roll them into balls in the palms of your hands. (Make sure your Cuisinart is unplugged just to be safe.) Pour some coconut flakes out on a plate and roll the balls across the coconut so that the ball is coated completely. Store inside of a container in the fridge or freezer. You may want to place parchment paper in between the layers to make sure they don’t stick.

Keep tinkering around with this recipe until it is just exactly how you like it. You may even want to add a hint of maple syrup if you have a sweet tooth – I bet it would taste great especially in the fall. You can imagine it being a tiny bite of happiness pie. ;P

Let us know how you like it in the comments below.