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CHERRY DATE ENERGY BALLS

  • Writer: WineCheeseScallops
    WineCheeseScallops
  • Apr 16
  • 5 min read

Looking for a nutritious, no-bake snack that’s naturally sweet, packed with flavor, and incredibly easy to make? These Cherry Date Energy Balls are the perfect bite-sized treats! With the rich nuttiness of almonds and pecans, the tart sweetness of dried cherries, and the caramel-like depth of Medjool dates, these energy balls are a delightful balance of flavor and texture. Whether you need a quick pre-workout boost, a mid-day pick-me-up, or a wholesome treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, these are a must-try!

Round energy bites in a white bowl on a wooden board, with cinnamon sticks nearby. The bites are brown with visible nuts.

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Measuring cups with dates, almonds, pecans, cranberries on a wooden board. Glass bowls hold spices and syrup, creating a cozy kitchen scene.

Medjool Dates

Medjool dates are often called "nature's caramel" because of their soft, chewy texture and deep, caramel-like sweetness. Unlike regular dates, Medjool dates are larger and naturally moist, making them an excellent binder in energy bites. They’re also a great source of natural sugars, fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, providing long-lasting energy without the crash of refined sugars.


Close-up of a black bowl filled with glossy red dried fruits, surrounded by nuts and dark brown snacks on a blurred wooden table.

Dried Cherries

Dried cherries add a bright tartness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the dates and the richness of the nuts. They’re loaded with antioxidants, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory properties, making them a fantastic ingredient for recovery snacks. Plus, their chewy texture enhances the bite of these energy balls, adding a fruity burst to every bite!

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Red cranberries and dates in a food processor with a clear lid, ready for blending. Brown crumb base visible, creating a rich, textured look.

Recipe Origin | CHERRY DATE ENERGY BALLS

The inspiration for these Cherry Date Energy Balls comes from our love of simple, nutritious snacks that don’t skimp on flavor. Store-bought energy bars are convenient, but they often contain unnecessary sugars and preservatives. We wanted to create a clean, homemade version that’s naturally sweetened, rich in healthy fats, and completely satisfying. These energy balls are not only easy to whip up in minutes, but they’re also highly customizable—perfect for meal prep, post-workout snacks, or even a grab-and-go breakfast.

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Tips, Serving Suggestions, and Storage Advice

  • Enhance the Flavor – Toast the almonds and pecans in a dry pan for a few minutes before processing to bring out their natural oils and deepen their nutty flavor.

  • Make it Extra Nutty – Swap the pecans for walnuts or cashews for a different flavor profile.

  • Boost the Protein – Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseeds for an extra nutritional boost.

  • Go Chocolatey – Stir in a handful of mini dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs for a hint of chocolate.

  • Customize the Sweetness – If you prefer a tangier flavor, increase the amount of dried cherries slightly. For more sweetness, add an extra date.

  • Stickiness Solution – If the mixture is too dry, add a teaspoon of warm water or a drizzle of honey while blending to help it bind together.

  • Shape Consistency – Use a cookie scoop to portion out evenly sized balls before rolling them with your hands.

  • Chill for Best Texture – While they can be eaten right away, refrigerating them for at least 15 minutes helps them firm up for a perfect bite.

  • Longer Storage – Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months for a convenient grab-and-go snack.

  • On-the-Go Option – These travel well and make an excellent road trip or hiking snack! Keep them in a small container or baggie for easy snacking.

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Energy bites on a wooden board with cinnamon, almonds, and cranberries. A white ramekin in the background enhances a rustic feel.

Unique Recipe Qualities

  • No-Bake & Quick – Made in minutes with minimal effort, no baking required!

  • Naturally Sweetened – No refined sugars, just the natural sweetness of dates and cherries.

  • Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch ahead of time for easy snacking all week.

  • Packed with Nutrients – Full of healthy fats, fiber, and natural energy boosters.

  • Customizable – Swap nuts, add seeds, or mix in extras like coconut flakes or chocolate.

  • Perfect for All Ages – A kid-friendly snack that’s also great for adults on the go.

  • Diet-Friendly – Suitable for gluten-free, dairy-free, and plant-based diets.

  • Balanced Flavor – The perfect mix of tart, sweet, nutty, and spiced notes.

  • Great for Fitness Enthusiasts – Provides sustained energy for workouts or busy days.

  • Portable & Travel-Friendly – No refrigeration required for a few hours, making them ideal for packed lunches or road trips.

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Energy balls in a white bowl on a wooden board, surrounded by almonds and cranberries, with a woven pattern in the background.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup almonds

  • ½ cup pecans

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

  • Pinch of salt

  • 1 cup dried cherries

  • ½ cup pitted Medjool dates

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)


Instructions:

  1. In a food processor, blend the almonds, pecans, cinnamon, and salt until finely ground.

  2. Add the dried cherries, pitted dates, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Process until the mixture begins to stick together. If it's too dry, add a few drops of water while the food processor is running until the mixture holds together.

  3. Roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls using your hands.

  4. Place the energy balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to firm up.

  5. Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to one week.

MUST-HAVE TOOLS FOR THIS RECIPE


We’re so excited for you to try this recipe! To make it even easier, we’ve put together a list of our favorite kitchen tools that are super helpful for this recipe. By using our affiliate links below, you’ll not only be getting top-notch products but also supporting our blog, Wine Cheese Scallops. Thank you so much for your support—happy cooking!




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FAQ

Q: Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Swap pecans for walnuts or cashews, or use all almonds if you prefer.

Q: Can I make these without a food processor?

A: It’s difficult, but possible! Try chopping the ingredients finely by hand and mixing them thoroughly, pressing the mixture together with your hands.

Q: Are these energy balls gluten-free?

A: Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q: Can I add protein powder?

A: Yes! Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder for an extra boost—just be prepared to add a little extra moisture if needed.

Q: How long do they last?

A: They stay fresh for up to a week in the fridge or three months in the freezer.

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For the freshest ingredients to recreate dishes like these at home, we always visit our local gem, General Steak and Seafood.


Their high-quality selection never disappoints!






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