Raw Vegan Energy Balls with Protein, Cacao, Dates, Nuts, Seeds, and More!

These raw vegan energy balls are the perfect powerhouse snack! 😋

---

These raw vegan energy balls are literally packed with nutrients! Think vitamins, minerals, protein, fiber, and whole slews of gut-healthy polyphenols.

In fact no-bake foods are generally healthier overall because they retain more heat-sensitive phytochemicals and are free of oxidized fats.

They’re also on the right side of the pH, making them way more alkaline.

Great for snacks, these loaded little bites are easy to make, satisfying, and free of gluten, dairy, and sketchy foods. They also sport a top-level protein power made by Organifi—with 20 grams of plant-based protein, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and more.

Which, by the way, takes a tiny little bite to a whole new level. (Click image or get here):

So whether you need a boost, a snack, or a quick and healthy post-workout jam, these epic little bites are a hands down win! 😋

Raw Vegan Energy Balls

Using raw organic nuts and seeds instead of just plain peanut butter in this recipe creates a more nutrient-dense bite.

The chia rocks omegas, fiber, antioxidants, and complete protein, and walnuts—one of the healthiest nuts —sports omegas, too, along with manganese, copper, vitamin E, and a polyphenol called ‘ellagitannin.’

Recent studies show that polyphenols can literally reduce microplastics and toxic chemicals in human cells. And Brazil nuts—one of the best sources of selenium—have them too, along with peanuts, cashews, cacao, and all the other dope superfoods.

Here’s what you’ll need (full recipe below):

Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowl.
• Cutting board.
• Baking pan. (or plate for chilling)
• Spatula.
• Knife set.
• Flatware/cutlery.
• Food storage container.
• Parchment paper.
• Kitchen cloth.

No-Bake Vegan Energy Balls

Cacao, coconut, and dates are powerhouses that make raw vegan energy bites both delicious and nutritious. 💚

Cacao, in its raw form, is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and magnesium, and unlike processed chocolate, raw cacao retains its nutrients—including flavonoids that reduce inflammation and boost brain health.

Coconut delivers healthy fats in the form of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which provide a quick source of energy and also support the brain.

The dates act as a natural sweetener, offering essential vitamins and minerals like potassium, calcium, and B vitamins, and their fiber nourishes the gut while boosting sustainable energy. The maple syrup is optional and the recipe is customizable to your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 cup mixed nuts.
• 1/2 cup dates (soft and pitted)
• 1 scoop chocolate protein powder.
• 1 tbsp cacao powder.
• 2 tbsp cashew butter.
• 1/4 cup coconut (shredded)
• 2 tbsp coconut oil.
• 1 tbsp chia seeds.
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional).
• 1 tbsp flax meal.
• 1 tbsp coconut flour.
• 2 tbsp plant milk.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract.
• 1/4 tsp pink salt.
• 1 tsp stevia.
• 3/4 cup walnuts.

More Energy Bite Ideas

Superfoods & Nutrient Boosters

• Maca powder – Supports energy and hormone balance.
• Spirulina powder – Provides protein, iron, and antioxidants.
• Amla powder – A powerful source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Matcha green tea powder – A major powerhouse for health and longevity.
• Moringa – Packed with vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein.
• Wheatgrass Powder – Packed with about everything.
• Barley Grass Powder – Complete protein, enzymes, antioxidants, and more.
• Hemp seeds – High in protein, omega-3s, and fiber.
• Pumpkin seeds – Great for magnesium, zinc, and protein.
• Sunflower seeds – Rich in vitamin E and healthy fats.

Flavor Enhancers & Natural Sweeteners

• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and helps regulate blood sugar.
• Nutmeg – Provides a subtle sweetness and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Cardamom – Enhances flavor and aids digestion.
• Orange zest – Brightens the flavor with a citrusy touch.
• Lemon zest – Adds a refreshing, tangy note.

Texture & Crunch

• Goji berries – Chewy and loaded with vitamins.
• Blueberries – Naturally sweet with a satisfying texture.
• Lingonberries – Adds moisture, fiber, and natural sweetness.
• Royal quinoa – Adds depth, complete protein, more.

Binding & Creaminess

• Almond butter – Enhances creaminess and adds healthy fats.
• Tahini – Provides a unique, slightly savory richness.
• Oat flour – Helps bind ingredients and adds fiber.
• Avocado – Creates a creamy texture and boosts healthy fats.

When choosing between coconut oil and vegan butter for this recipe, both offer unique benefits. Organic coconut oil adds a subtle coconut flavor and contributes to a moist, tender crumb due to its high-fat content. It also helps create a slightly crisp exterior when baked.

On the other hand, vegan butter mimics traditional dairy butter more closely, offering a richer, buttery taste and a softer texture. It typically contains emulsifiers that can enhance the overall consistency of the batter.

The best choice depends on the desired flavor and texture—coconut oil is ideal for a lighter, slightly tropical taste, while vegan butter rocks a more traditional, indulgent donut. If a neutral flavor is preferred, organic coconut oil is the best.

Instructions

1. Add mixed nuts to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped.
2. Add dates and blend until combined.
3. Add the remaining ingredients, setting aside some coconut for dusting.
4. Process until the mixture starts to form a dough, adding plant milk a little at a time until it sticks together.
5. Stir in the cacao chips by hand and pulse a few times to distribute them evenly without fully blending.
6. Roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls about an inch in diameter, then roll them in some coconut and date sugar or stevia.
7. Place the balls on a baking sheet or plate and refrigerate for at least an hour to firm up.
8. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

Raw Vegan Energy Balls FAQ

1. What are some common ingredient substitutions?

• Dates – dried figs, raisins, or prunes
• Almonds – cashews, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
• Coconut flakes – oats or chia seeds for texture.

2. Are energy balls gluten-free?

These are! As long as you use gluten-free ingredients, such as oats or nuts, they’re naturally gluten-free.

3. Can I make them nut-free?

Yes, use seeds such as sunflower, pumpkin, or hemp instead of nuts, and swap nut butter for sunflower seed butter.

4. How can I make them less sticky?

If your energy balls are too sticky, try adding more dry ingredients like coconut flour or ground nuts to absorb excess moisture. Chilling in the fridge for an hour before rolling can also help. Lightly coating your hands with coconut oil can also help prevent sticking while shaping.

5. What Ingredients help binding?

Ingredients like dates, nut butter, and maple syrup help hold everything together. Adding chia seeds or ground flaxseeds can also improve the texture by absorbing moisture and acting as a natural binder. If the mixture is too dry, blend in a little more nut butter or a splash of plant milk until it sticks.

6. How many balls shout I eat in a day?

Clearly it depends on your diet and energy needs, but one to three a day is a great portion for a snack. For meal replacement or post-workout you may want to bump that up.

7. Why are my energy balls too sticky or dry?

• If too sticky, add more dry ingredients like oats, coconut, or ground nuts.
• If too dry, add more moisture by increasing dates, nut butter, or a splash of plant milk.

9. Can I make energy balls without a food processor?

If you don’t have a food processor, you can chop the ingredients finely and mix them by hand or use a high-powered blender.

10. How do I store energy balls?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one to two weeks. You can also freeze them for up to four months.

Keep reading (and cooking!)  

Himalayan Tartary Buckwheat Banana Bread

Himalayan Tartary Buckwheat Sourdough Bread

Homemade Vegan Granola Recipe

15 Himalayan Tartary Buckwheat Recipes

Optimized Vegan Diet Plan

---

The medical and health topics covered on the Plate of Grass website and blog have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to prevent or cure any disease. This article and its content is presented ‘as is’ for informational purposes only.