Date Balls

Scroll down to the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and amounts.

• Dates – I prefer using Medjool dates for their rich, caramel-like flavor and soft, chewy texture, which blends smoothly and naturally sweetens the date power balls without the need for added sugar like honey or maple syrup.
• Walnuts – Raw walnuts bring a rich, earthy flavor and provide healthy fats, making the energy bites more satisfying and nutritious.
• Cocoa Powder – I use Dutch-processed cocoa powder because it’s smoother, less bitter, and better suited for raw recipes.
• Coconut Oil – A small amount of coconut oil helps bind the mixture together and allows the bliss bites to firm up perfectly when chilled, while also adding healthy fats.

How to make date balls?

You can find full printable recipe below, but here is a quick overview of the procedure along with step-by-step photos.

1 & 2. Add dates, cocoa powder, walnuts, and coconut oil to a food processor. process for 1 to 2 minutes or until finely ground.

Tip: Stop the machine, scrape the sides often, and grind as fine as possible. Do not be tempted to add any liquid such as water or milk. The mixture might look dry in the beginning, but as the machine runs, the natural oils in walnuts and coconut oil will add enough moisture, to help combine.

Pro tip: If you are using Noor dates, then soak them in some water for 30 to 60 minutes, and drain the water completely before proceeding with the recipe. This softens them and makes them easier to grind.

3 to 5. Transfer the mixture into a bowl and mix with a spoon, to combine. Make 1 tablespoon measure balls, pinch them with your fingertips to hold them together, and roll them into balls, between the palm of your hands. Store in the refrigerator.

How to store date nut balls

Store the bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They also freeze well and will keep for about 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw in the fridge before eating—or enjoy them straight from the freezer (I often do!).

Tips for Success

• Use soft dates – Medjool dates are ideal for this date chocolate balls recipe thanks to their sweet, caramel-like flavor and natural moisture, which helps the dough bind. If you're using dry Deglet Noor dates, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain well before blending.
• Blender tip – If you're using a blender instead of a food processor, start by grinding the walnuts and cocoa powder into a fine powder first. Then add the dates and coconut oil and pulse until the mixture comes together.
• Remove the pits – It may seem obvious, but don’t forget to remove the pits from your dates before blending!
• Customize the flavor – For a deeper, richer chocolate flavor, simply add more cocoa powder to taste.

Variations

• Nuts – Switch things up by using toasted almonds, cashews, pecans, or even shredded coconut for a different flavor and texture.
• Spices – Add warmth and depth with a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, or a splash of vanilla extract—perfect for giving your energy balls a cozy, fall-inspired twist.
• Seeds – Mix in chia seeds, flax seeds, or hemp seeds for extra crunch, fiber, and a boost of nutrition.
• Chocolate Chips – Stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips before rolling for an extra hint of indulgence.

More recipes using dates

If you love naturally sweet, no-refined-sugar treats, you’ll want to try these healthy recipes using dates. From no-bake snacks to better-for-you desserts, dates add natural sweetness, fiber, and richness—making them a perfect ingredient for wholesome, guilt-free indulgence. Here are some delicious ways to use them:

•  Almond joy stuffed dates have all the classic flavors of the beloved almond joy candy — only so much healthier! Soft Medjool dates are filled with a creamy coconut mixture, dipped in dark chocolate, and topped with a whole almond.
• Raw chocolate salami is the healthiest treat you'll eat! Made with 4 wholesome ingredients like dates, cocoa powder, nuts, and coconut oil, it is my favorite go-to snack to store in the fridge. 
• This chocolate hummus recipe is the healthiest sweet hummus dip you'll make at home. It is vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and naturally sweetened using dates.
• This date and banana smoothie is naturally sweet, nutrient-packed, and surprisingly decadent—thanks to soft Medjool dates.
• No bake date bars are made using wholesome, nutritious ingredients and are amazingly healthy. They are raw, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and require only 5 minutes of prep time.
• This date caramels is the healthiest homemade candy ever!