Right now I'm keeping my eye out for added sugar in my food, and it's surprising what it can be added to. Obviously, chocolate bars contain sugar. I wanted these balls to contain no added sugar, and instead some healthy fats, and protein- which Meridian's beautiful cashew butter provides. Obviously coconut is still high fat, and I wouldn't eat the whole batch of these in one go (I have to exercise some self control sometimes), but each is only 106kcal and 9.3g fat per ball, without the chocolate on top. All of these calories and fats are from good, wholesome ingredients, making these the perfect healthier treat, or pre/post workout energy boost. Cocoa powder lightens up the balls, in place of the thick layer of milk chocolate- although these do taste great with a dollop of bittersweet chocolate on top. And that dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants too. I used agave to sweeten the balls, and also act was a bit of a binding agent; feel free to use honey, I just opted for agave as it doesn't have that distinctive honey taste, and also means that these balls are great for vegans to chew on too. Because I wanted you all to be able to enjoy eating my balls.
Ingredients
1cup + 1/4 cup desiccated coconut
3tbsp cashew butter (I used Meridian)
2tbsp Alpro coconut milk
1tbsp agave
2tsp cocoa powder
OPTIONAL: 2-3 small squares dark chocolate (I used my 90% bar); 1tsp desiccated coconut
Method
Into a large bowl empty the coconut, agave, and milk. Soften the cashew nutter ever so slightly in the microwave (literally 10 seconds maximum), and add to the bowl as well.
Mix together thoroughly, until completely combined.
Use your hands to squidge 2tsp measurements of the mixture into balls, rolling them between your fingertips. Each ball will weigh 15g, if you want to be super precise.
Chill the balls for half an hour, before rolling them in a dusting of cocoa, and returning to the fridge until required...
If you wish, remove the balls from the fridge 30 minutes before needed and top each with a little melted chocolate, plus a sprinkle of coconut. They can stay in the fridge for up to 4 days.
