These are another version of my bliss balls for you, that are so easy to make and the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

I have popped some Cacao powder in these ones instead of the more Apricot flavours of my previous recipe.  (https://pwpantry.com/2015/10/16/apricot-and-walnut-bliss-balls/)

Cacao is a delicious and naturally rich superfood which has been said to have the following health benefits and many more:

1) It Neutralizes Free Radicals
Scientists recently discovered that raw cacao powder contains nearly twice the antioxidants of red wine, and three times the antioxidants found in green tea! High levels of antioxidants protect the body from a build up of free radicals (from UV exposure, pollution, smoking, etc.) that can damage our cells.

2) It works as an Appetite Suppressant
Cacao has appetite-suppressant properties and is often added to “weight loss” products to help control hunger pangs!
3) It Boosts Mood and Happiness
 Chemicals found in Cacao powder can help to increase the availability and circulation of Serotonin and other neurotransmitters in brain, which induce “happy feeling” chemical reactions.  Also the Theobromine in Cacao helps stimulate our central nervous system and gives a boost of energy.

Ingredients:

1 and 1/2 Cups of Walnuts (or can do half Almonds if you prefer)
1/4 cup Natural Desiccated Coconut
1 Cup of Medjool Dates (must be Medjool for the stickiness)
2 tbspn Coconut Oil
3 tbspn Chia Seeds
2 tbspn Flaxseeds
3 tbsp Raw Cacao Powder

1 tsp Honey
Large pinch of Sea Salt

Method:

Very easy! Mix everything together (only half the coconut) in your blender (I use a Magimix mini) then just roll this mixture into small balls, about a walnut size. Roll each of these little balls onto your bench into the rest of the Coconut. Set in the fridge for a few hours then enjoy this dairy free, gluten free, guilt free treat!

These bliss balls go with anything so experiment. If you have any dried strawberries then pop them all in the mix too, or roll in other chopped nuts like pistachios.

These are brilliant to make at the beginning of the week, store them in the fridge, and then have a healthy snack available all week. Enjoy! x