{recipe} Walnut, Pecan, Chia Seed, Hemp Seed Energy Balls

These energy balls, is basically my all time favorite nutrient dense snack.  I was a little skeptical at first, but after making my first batch I was sold.

I decided to use ingredients I had on hand (that I actually like) instead of the recommend, and I am so glad I did.

They are wonderfully sweet, chocolaty, and full of fatty goodness to keep you full and energized all day long.

This is a go to snack with both the kids and I.

WALNUT, PECAN, CHIA SEED, HEMP SEED ENERGY BALLS:
* makes about 20 energy balls

1 cup + 2 tbsp walnuts
1 cups + 2 tbsp pecans
20 dates, pitted
3 tbsp raw cacao powder
2 tbsp almond butter (this is my all time favorite almond butter)
2 tbsp chia seeds
2 tbsp hemp seeds
2 tbsp coconut oil
2 tbsp water

VARIATION: The nuts, seeds, and almond butter is interchangeable with anything you have on hand, or that you like better.

* I recommend using organic/grass-fed/high quality ingredients from reputable companies when feasible.

Line a 9x13 inch baking sheet with parchment paper (I like to use unbleached parchment paper.)

Add the walnuts and the pecans to a food processor (this is the food processor I own and love) and pulse until nicely crushed, about 30 seconds.  Add the pitted dates and pulse for a few more seconds.  Now add the raw cacao powder, almond butter, chia seeds, hemp seeds, coconut oil, and water.  Blend everything together until all the ingredients have mix together, and is sticky.

Using a 1 1/2 tbsp cookie scoop for the sticky mix into little balls.  Place the little energy ball onto the line baking sheet.  Repeat this process until there is no more sticky mixture left.

Freeze the energy balls for 1 hour to help them set.  Transfer the energy balls to an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator for several weeks.