Ingredients:
- 225g Medjool dates, pitted and packed
- 90g old fashioned rolled oats
- 24g chia seeds
- 45g mini dark chocolate chips
- 10g unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
- 0.25 tsp sea salt
Instructions:
- Inspect dates carefully. Remove the pits from 225g of Medjool dates and check for any stubborn fragments. Note: Even pitted dates occasionally have a stray pit hiding inside.
- Process the base. Place the pitted dates and 1 tsp vanilla extract in your food processor.
- Pulse for texture. Pulse 8-10 times to break the fruit down into smaller chunks before going full speed.
- Create the paste. Run the processor on high for 30 seconds until the dates form a thick, sticky ball that moves around the bowl.
- Add dry ingredients. Pour in 90g oats, 24g chia seeds, 0.5 tsp cinnamon, and 0.25 tsp sea salt.
- Incorporate carefully. Pulse 5-7 times until the oats are evenly distributed but still visible and whole.
- Fold in extras. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and fold in 45g mini dark chocolate chips and 10g shredded coconut by hand. Note: Hand folding prevents the chocolate from melting or being pulverized.
- Portion the dough. Use a one tablespoon scoop to create 18 equal portions of the mixture.
- Roll into rounds. Press each portion firmly between your palms and roll until a smooth, tight sphere forms.
- Set the bites. Place them on a tray and chill for 10 minutes if you prefer a firmer texture before eating.