Chocolate Tahini Bliss Bites

When you pack so many nutritious goodies into one chocolaty bite, the debacle then becomes “what the heck do I call these???” I decided 'Chocolate Tahini Bliss Bites' do these justice.  Tahini, sesame seed paste, is so versatile. I've been using it in everything from baked treats [or not baked, in this case], salad dressings, hummus, sauces and marinades.  Typically found in Mediterranean cuisine, tahini can be purchased at the grocery store in the nut butter section, or you can DIY. Known to be pricey already prepared, I didn't find the $3.49 purchase at Trader Joe's to be that detrimental to my wallet, especially since a little goes a long way!

These Chocolate Tahini Bliss Bites pack 7 ingredients, some of which you likely already have on hand. Walnuts pay a key role providing a nutty texture and healthy fats, but if you prefer cashews or even almonds, you could give those a try in this recipe. Oats add a bit of bulk and fiber, and the tahini is adding the creaminess that you'd usually get from another type of nut butter in an energy bite recipe. Cacao powder [hands down my favorite "superfood"] gives the chocolatey taste without the added sugar, and it's loaded with magnesium [hello digestive, sleep, muscle and nerve health!]. Last but not least, hemp seeds give these bites a little crunch with an additional dose of healthy fats and protein. 

Change up your go-to energy bites and be on your way to snack heaven with these chocolatey, nutrient rich, bliss bites! 

Chocolate TAHINI BLISS BITES

INGREDIENTS

  • 1/2 C + 1 tbsp. walnuts

  • 1/4 C rolled oats

  • 1/3 C tahini

  • 1/4 cup cacao powder

  • 2 tbsp. hemp seeds

  • 8 dates, pitted

  • 1 tbsp. agave/honey/maple syrup

  • Sprinkle of salt

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Place walnuts and oats in food processor and process until well combined. About 30 seconds.

  2. Add remaining ingredients and process until a slightly sticky dough forms. Add a splash of water or more sweetener if the mixture isn't coming together.

  3. Place dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. 

  4. Roll into bite sized balls and enjoy. Yields about 18 bites.