Chocolate Quinoa Energy Balls (Vegan, Gluten Free, Sugar Free)

These fudgy, chocolate‑flavoured quinoa bites are a guilt‑free, nutrient‑packed snack that’s perfect for on‑the‑go energy. They are naturally sweetened naturally with dates, so they are free from added sugars, and full of gut-loving fibre.

If you’re after a snack that strikes the perfect balance between a sweet treat and a healthy bite, these chocolate quinoa energy balls are just the thing. They’re quick to make, naturally sweetened with dates, and packed with 7.5 grams of fibre and 3 grams of protein per ball, plus healthy fats and complex carbohydrates to keep your energy steady. Eating just two balls provides you with half your daily fibre needs, making them a delicious way to support digestive health. Ideal for a mid-afternoon treat, after-dinner dessert, or something to grab on the go.

Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Quinoa Energy Balls

Fudgy, chocolate-flavoured bites made with wholefood ingredients for a feel-good snack.

• Naturally sweetened – no added sugar, just Medjool dates for natural sweetness.

• Gut-friendly – high in fibre.

• Complex carbs for steady energy – quinoa and dates offer slow-release fuel.

• Quick and easy – ready in under 20 minutes, no baking required.

• Freezer-friendly – perfect for meal prep or keeping a stash of healthy snacks.

• Satisfying texture – a fudgy base with a little crunch from walnuts and a light coconut coating.

What You’ll Need to Make These Energy Balls

Simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a rich, fudgy bite.

• Medjool dates – for natural sweetness and chewy texture

• Almond butter – adds creaminess and healthy fats

• Uncooked quinoa – lightly toasted or cooked, adds a subtle nuttiness and complex carbs

• Cacao powder – for a rich, chocolatey flavour

• Walnuts – offer crunch, healthy fats, and fibre

• Ground flaxseed – helps to bind the mixture

• Desiccated coconut – for rolling, adds texture and a subtle sweetness

• Pinch of salt (optional) – enhances flavour and balances the sweetness

Tips for the Best Chocolate Quinoa Energy Balls

Make the most of your batch with these simple tips.

• Cool your quinoa completely before blending — warm quinoa can make the mixture too soft or sticky.

• Don’t overblend – leave a little texture for bite; blitz just until it holds together.

• Use fresh, soft dates – if yours are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes.

• Toast the quinoa before using (optional) for extra nuttiness and flavour.

• Chill the mixture if it’s too sticky to roll – 10–15 minutes in the fridge can help.

• Double the batch – these freeze well and are perfect for meal prep!

How to Store Your Energy Balls

Keep your energy balls fresh and ready to grab.

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let sit at room temp for 5–10 minutes before eating.

• On the go: They’ll hold up for a few hours out of the fridge — great for lunchboxes or hiking snacks.

Print

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Chocolate Quinoa Energy Balls

Yield: 12

Author: Emily Maun

Prep time: 15 MinInactive time: 30 MinTotal time: 45 Min

Easy, fudgy, chocolatey energy bites, sweetened with dates. Full of fibre, protein, and healthy fats - the ultimate sweet treat!

Ingredients

• 1 cup of Medjool dates, pitted
• 3 tbsp almond butter (smooth or crunchy)
• 1/3 cup uncooked quinoa
• 1/3 cup cacao powder
• 1/2 cup walnuts
• 1/2 tbsp ground flaxseed
• pinch of salt (optional)
• 1/4 cup desiccated coconut

Instructions

1. Firstly, cook the quinoa and allow to cool.
2. Once cooled, add to a food processor with all other ingredients, minus the coconut.
3. Process the ingredients until they are well combined and a dough-like ball has formed, making sure all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Try not to over mix, as you still want some texture from the walnuts.
4. Take small portions of the mixture (around 1 tbsp) and roll them between your palms to form small balls. Repeat until you have formed 12 balls.
5. Pour the coconut onto a plate or shallow dish and roll each ball in the coconut, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks to the surface.
6. Place the coated balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up and hold their shape.
7. After refrigeration, they are ready to be enjoyed!

Notes

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

*Nutritional breakdown is an estimate

Nutrition Facts

Calories

155

Fat

6.4 g

Carbs

16 g

Fiber

7.5 g

Protein

3 g

Sugar

10 g

*Per ball

Energy balls

Dessert, snack

Gluten-free, vegan