Name: Mocha Energy Bites (No Nuts, Paleo) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Paleo
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted Medjool dates (about 13 dates); 1/4 cup sunflower seed butter (unsweetened Sunbutter preferred); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/3 cup chocolate protein powder (32g); 1/4 cup cocoa powder (24g); 2 tsp instant coffee; Pinch of salt; Water (if dough is too dry, as needed)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

These Mocha Energy Bites are a delicious and nutritious snack that’s both nut-free and paleo-friendly. Packed with natural sweetness and a hint of coffee flavor, they make the perfect pick-me-up anytime you need a boost.

The image shows several round dark brown chocolate cake balls arranged on a white tray lined with light parchment paper. The cake balls have a smooth, slightly shiny surface with a soft texture. One cake ball in the center has a small bite taken out, revealing a dense, moist, textured, dark chocolate inside. The white marbled background adds a clean contrast, making the rich color of the cake balls stand out. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup pitted Medjool dates (about 13 dates)
1/4 cup sunflower seed butter (unsweetened Sunbutter recommended)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/3 cup chocolate protein powder (32g)*
1/4 cup cocoa powder (24g)
2 tsp instant coffee
Pinch of salt
Water (if dough is too dry)**

Instructions

Step 1: Soak the pitted dates in hot water to soften them. Place the dates in a small bowl and pour hot water over them until fully submerged. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, then drain the water.
Step 2: Transfer the softened dates to a food processor and blend until smooth.
Step 3: Add sunflower seed butter, vanilla extract, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, instant coffee, and a pinch of salt to the food processor. Blend the mixture, stopping a few times to scrape down the sides, until a large sticky dough ball forms.
Step 4: Roll the dough into balls about one tablespoon in size. You should get approximately 17 energy bites.
Step 5: Store the energy bites in an airtight container or bag in the fridge or freezer.

Tips & Variations

If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it sticks together well.
For extra crunch, stir in some sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds before rolling.
Use decaf instant coffee if you want to avoid caffeine.
Substitute the chocolate protein powder with your favorite plant-based or whey protein powder for varied flavor and nutrition.

Storage

Store the Mocha Energy Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge or at room temperature for a few minutes. They make a convenient grab-and-go snack that stays fresh and flavorful.

How to Serve

The image shows a metal tray lined with light-colored parchment paper holding 18 small, round dough balls. Each dough ball is smooth, shiny, and dark brown in color, evenly spaced across the tray in neat rows. The tray rests on a white marbled surface that reflects some natural light, creating soft shadows next to each dough ball. The overall look is clean and orderly, with the rich, deep brown dough contrasting against the light parchment and white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of nut butters instead of sunflower seed butter?

Yes, you can substitute almond butter or cashew butter if you do not have a nut allergy. However, sunflower seed butter keeps this recipe nut-free and paleo-friendly.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

While a food processor makes the job easier, you can finely chop the dates and mix all ingredients thoroughly by hand or use a sturdy blender, though the texture may be less smooth.