Tiramisu-Inspired Energy Balls Recipe

Introduction

These Tiramisu-Inspired Energy Balls are a deliciously healthy snack that combines the richness of espresso and cocoa with creamy centers. Perfect for a quick energy boost or a sweet treat, they capture the classic flavors of tiramisu in a convenient bite-sized form.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups pitted dates
• ½ cup unsalted, unsweetened cashew butter
• ¼ cup whole-milk plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ⅓ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 2 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the dates in a heatproof bowl and pour boiling water over them to cover. Let stand for about 10 minutes until soft, then drain well.
2. Step 2: Transfer the drained dates to a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped. Add the cashew butter, yogurt, espresso powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Pulse until the mixture is incorporated.
3. Step 3: Add the rolled oats and pulse again until fully combined. Transfer the mixture to a small bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up.
4. Step 4: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the chilled mixture onto a sheet of wax or parchment paper. Using moistened fingers, gently press it into a 1½-inch round, about ¼-inch thick.
5. Step 5: Place ¼ teaspoon of cream cheese in the center of the round. Carefully pinch the date mixture around the cream cheese to seal it and then roll into a 1-inch ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
6. Step 6: Refrigerate the balls for about 30 minutes, until no longer sticky. Before serving, dust them with cocoa powder for a finishing touch.

Tips & Variations

• Use soaked and drained nuts like almonds or walnuts instead of cashew butter for a crunchier texture.
• For a vegan version, substitute the yogurt and cream cheese with coconut yogurt and vegan cream cheese alternatives.
• If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, increase the espresso powder to 1 ½ tablespoons.
• Roll the balls in finely chopped dark chocolate or shredded coconut instead of cocoa powder for variety.

Storage

Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to a month; thaw in the fridge before serving. For best texture, consume chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, almond or peanut butter can be used instead of cashew butter, though this will slightly change the flavor and texture.

Are these suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Make sure to use certified gluten-free oats to keep this recipe gluten-free.

Tiramisu-Inspired Energy Balls Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 136 reviews

These Tiramisu-Inspired Energy Balls combine the rich flavors of espresso, creamy cashew butter, and cocoa powder for a deliciously indulgent yet healthy snack. Packed with dates, oats, and a hint of cream cheese, these no-bake energy balls offer a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making them an ideal treat for on-the-go or a guilt-free dessert.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings (about 8 energy balls) 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups pitted dates
• ½ cup unsalted, unsweetened cashew butter
• ¼ cup whole-milk plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ⅓ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 2 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Soften Dates: Place the pitted dates in a heatproof bowl and pour boiling water over them until they are fully covered. Let them stand for about 10 minutes until they soften. Then drain the dates thoroughly to remove excess water.
2. Prepare Mixture: Add the drained dates to a food processor and pulse until they are coarsely chopped. Then add the unsalted cashew butter, plain whole-milk yogurt, instant espresso powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Pulse the mixture until all ingredients are well incorporated. Next, add the rolled oats and pulse again until everything is fully combined and the mixture forms a cohesive dough.
3. Chill Mixture: Transfer the prepared mixture to a small bowl. Cover it and refrigerate for 10 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up slightly, making it easier to work with.
4. Form Energy Balls: Lay out a sheet of wax or parchment paper. Using approximately 1 tablespoon of the date mixture, spoon it onto the paper. With moistened fingers, gently press the mixture into a round about 1½ inches in diameter and ¼ inch thick. Place ¼ teaspoon of reduced-fat cream cheese in the center of the round. Carefully pinch and seal the date mixture around the cream cheese, then roll the sealed ball gently to form a smooth 1-inch diameter energy ball. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture and cream cheese.
5. Refrigerate Balls: Place the formed energy balls in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until they are no longer sticky and feel firm to the touch.
6. Finish and Serve: Once chilled and set, dust the energy balls generously with the cocoa powder. Serve immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Notes

• To soften dates faster, soak them in warm water instead of boiling water but allow a longer soaking time.
• If you can’t find cashew butter, almond butter or peanut butter can be used as alternatives, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
• Use moistened fingers to prevent the mixture from sticking when forming the balls.
• These energy balls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or frozen for up to a month.
• Adjust the amount of espresso powder according to your espresso or caffeine preference.

Keywords: tiramisu energy balls, healthy snacks, no bake energy balls, espresso snacks, date and oat balls, vegan snack, vegetarian energy balls