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Healthy Trail Mix Energy Balls Recipe with Coconut and Dark Chocolate

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These Healthy Trail Mix Energy Balls combine nuts, seeds, shredded coconut, and dark chocolate chunks for a quick, nutritious, and satisfying snack perfect for on-the-go energy boosts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (225 g) trail mix (nuts, seeds, dried fruit; e.g., almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries)
  • ⅓ cup (30 g) unsweetened shredded coconut
  • ¼ cup (40 g) dark chocolate chunks (70% cacao or higher)
  • ⅓ cup (80 g) natural almond butter
  • 3 tbsp (45 ml) honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp (12 g) chia seeds (optional)
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Place 1 ½ cups (225 g) of trail mix into a food processor. Pulse in short bursts for 20 to 30 seconds until a coarse crumbly texture is achieved, leaving some chunks for texture.
  2. Transfer the processed trail mix to a mixing bowl. Stir in ⅓ cup (30 g) shredded coconut, ¼ cup (40 g) dark chocolate chunks, 1 tbsp (12 g) chia seeds, and a pinch of sea salt until evenly distributed.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup (80 g) natural almond butter, 3 tbsp (45 ml) honey or maple syrup, and 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
  4. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Fold together with a spatula until the mixture sticks when pressed. If too dry, add water or more nut butter one teaspoon at a time.
  5. Scoop about 1 ½ tablespoons (20 g) of mixture and roll into tight balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate. Repeat to make roughly 15 balls.
  6. Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up and intensify flavors.
  7. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Pulse trail mix in short bursts to avoid over-processing. Use dark chocolate chunks instead of chips for better texture. Slightly dampen hands when rolling to prevent sticking. Chill for at least 30 minutes; longer chilling improves flavor and texture. Can substitute nut butters and sweeteners for dietary needs. Add protein powder for extra protein.

Nutrition

Keywords: energy balls, trail mix, healthy snack, coconut, dark chocolate, no bake, quick snack, portable snack, gluten-free, vegan option