Not only are these protein bites deliciously nutritious, they also punch above their weight in protein, healthy fats, nutritious fibre and antioxidants.
Based on fabulously protein-packed almonds, 100% organic dark cacao, otherwise known as the love drug, nourishing dates and 100% cacao buttons, these little nuggets will satisfy your sweet tooth, and your chocolate cravings, whilst keeping you nourished, satiated and in love for any hike you choose. They’re no bake, easy to make, and they contain no nasties.
They’re also easy to carry and easy to share with your hiking buddies, who’ll be lining up for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond meal (protein, healthy fat, fibre, vitamin E, calcium and magnesium).
- 1 cup 100% dark raw cacao (antioxidants, tryptophan, serotonin, dopamine, phenylethylamine – the love chemical- magnesium, iron, calcium, zinc, and potassium.)
- 350 grams pitted dates (fibre, potassium, magnesium, copper, iron, phosphorus, calcium, polyphenols, carotenoids and phenolic acids.)
- 4 tablespoons espresso coffee (antioxidants, Vitamin B2, B5, manganese, potassium, and magnesium)
- 4 cups roast slivered almonds (protein, healthy fat, fibre, vitamin E, calcium and magnesium.)
- 1 cup 100% cacao buttons or 95% Lindt Extra Dark chocolate chopped (antioxidants, tryptophan, serotonin, dopamine, phenylethylamine – the love chemical- magnesium, iron, calcium, zinc, and potassium.)
Method:
- Roast slivered almonds in a moderate oven until golden and crunchy and cool completely.
- Blend pitted dates, almond meal and cacao in a blender or food processor until finely ground. Slowly add the espresso coffee until it becomes a sticky dough.
- Add roast slivered almonds and briefly blend to desired crunch. I like big nut pieces. You might prefer chunky or finely chopped, so do what you love.
- Mix in the dark chocolate buttons or Lindt.
- Line a baking tray with baking paper and press the mixture down firmly with your hands to a one centimeter thickness, then flatten with a rolling pin. You’ll need to use your core! For a speedier option, put fresh socks on, place a small tray on top of the mixture & stand on the tray to press the mixture into the block.
- Refrigerate overnight and cut into 2cm squares and pop in the fridge or hide in the freezer until you fancy a delicious, nutritious snack.
If you’re after more delicious recipes to wow your hiking crew, try our Wild Women Choc Chip Cookies for a sweet treat, or Di’s Mediterranean Veggie Frittata if savoury is more your style!
