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5 Ingredient Chocolate Brownie Energy Bites

Liz DellaCroce Avatar

LIZ DELLA CROCE

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These naturally sweetened energy bites taste like a chocolate walnut brownie but are 100% gluten-free, vegan, and protein-packed.

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prep time10 minutes


Dates are all the rage right now. Have you noticed? Trendy or not, my family has been eating dates my entire life. Growing up, we were never a big dessert family (another reason my weight loss journey isn’t quite the norm), but my mom always had dried fruit in the house.

Liz getting a chocolate brownie energy bite

A common tradition in Middle Eastern families, she would often serve dried fruit like apricots, dates, and figs with hot tea in lieu of a fudge brownie or slice of cake.

Plate of chocolate walnut brownie energy bites

Speaking of brownie, these energy balls taste exactly like a chocolate walnut brownie minus the heavy, greasy, buttery guilt that typically comes with it. These energy bites are also a perfect fit for a gluten free and vegan diet.

While I love all things almond joy, I decided to attempt replicating a chocolate walnut brownie which is probably my favorite dessert of all time. In fact, whenever I purchase protein bars, I almost always gravitate towards the brownie flavor.

Liz testing brownie energy bites

Packed with heart-healthy walnuts and antioxidant-rich cocoa powder, these energy bites are great for stashing in your gym bag, storing in the diaper bag, or keeping on hand for after-school snacks. The omega-3’s in the walnuts provide just enough healthy fat to keep you satisfied. Dates are also a natural energy source that is low on the Glycemic Index (GI) meaning they help slow down your body’s absorption of sugar. No sugar crash for you; just a steady source of energy to keep you going.

How to Make Brownie Energy Bites

Step 1 – Grab just 5 simple ingredients: dates, walnuts, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt. It’s pretty likely you already have these at home. If you have a nut allergy, it’s easy to sub the walnuts for sunflower seeds.

Step 2 – Mix ingredients in a food processor, scoop, and roll. Yes, that’s it!

Frequently Asked Questions:

What nut options can you use?

Don’t have walnuts on hand? Use a mix of almonds and cashews or hazelnuts. They will work just as well!

How can these be stored?

Energy balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

What other recipe variations are there?

Rolling them in PB2 powder can turn them into a Reese’s peanut butter ball.

What food processor do you use?

I’m pretty obsessed with my Cuisinart food processor. It has great capacity, easy to use, and cleans up really well.

No forks required.

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5 Ingredient Chocolate Brownie Energy Bites?

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5 Ingredient Chocolate Brownie Energy Bites

Liz Della Croce
4.80 stars average
These naturally sweetened energy bites taste like a chocolate walnut brownie but are 100% gluten free, vegan and protein-packed.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
CourseSnack
Serves20

Ingredients
 
 

  • 1 cup dates
  • 1 cup walnuts
  • ¼ cup cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Video

Instructions
 

  1. Place dates in a medium bowl and cover with warm water. Let soak for 5 minutes to soften then drain.
  2. Add drained dates and all remaining ingredients into a food processor and pulse until mixture turns into the consistency of sand. (Depending on your food processor, this could take several minutes so don't worry if it doesn't happen right away!)
  3. Remove blade from the unit. To form balls, press mixture into a small
    stainless steel scoop then roll in between your palms to form evenly sized bites. Continue until mixture is gone.
  4. You can enjoy room temperature or let chill for 30 minutes before enjoying.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ball | Calories: 70kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 1.2g | Fat: 4.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.7g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 16mg | Fiber: 1.4g | Sugar: 5.2g

Have you tried my


5 Ingredient Chocolate Brownie Energy Bites?

Leave a 🌟 star rating and let us know how you liked it in the 📝 comments and share it on Instagram, Facebook & Pinterest.

We love hearing from you! This helps us continue to provide free, high-quality recipes.


4.80 from 25 votes (13 ratings without comment)

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82 responses to “5 Ingredient Chocolate Brownie Energy Bites”

  1. Michelle Avatar
    Michelle

    Could I make them with dried figs instead of dates? Any adjustments? Thx

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce
  2. Laurie Kudoba Avatar
    Laurie Kudoba

    I love these energy bites! They are amazingly delicious! It’s hard to stop at just one or two!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m so glad you love them Laurie!

  3. Tracy Avatar
    Tracy

    HI! What would a serving size be considered?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      One energy ball – sorry about that!

  4. Stacey Avatar
    Stacey

    How could I achieve this without a food processor? I don’t have one ????????‍♀️

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Not sure!! I recommend a food processor.:)

  5. Teena Avatar
    Teena

    Thank you soo much for sharing..i was looking for a way to combine nuts and cocoa without refined sugar or any baking for that matter for my husband who loves nuts! They came out really good (i used a mix of almonds and cashews since i didnt have walnuts) <3

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh I’m so glad you liked them!!

  6. Nikki Avatar
    Nikki

    I’ve made A LOT of bites and these are hands down my favorite! I make them with sunflower seeds and they are amazing!! Make them all the time.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m so glad you enjoy them Nikki!!

  7. Silke Avatar
    Silke

    Would these also be good with hazelnuts instead of walnuts?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      For sure!!

  8. Heather Avatar
    Heather

    Question: Approx how large do you think your balls are? I used 5/8 oz which is about 1 tablespoon. But I only got 14 balls. Also about how many dates do you think you are getting in a cup? Thanks.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hmm… Mine were about 1 tablespoon as well. As for how many dates in a cup, I would have to guess 20?

  9. Heather Avatar
    Heather

    So. I made these again today. This time I accidentally ran the walnuts through the food processor first until they were mealy. Then I added the salt, vanilla and dates (forgot the cocoa) ran that through and THEN remembered the cocoa (its not my day I guess). Sigh. So. Let me tell ya! This does NOT work! It is so sticky and gooey there’s just no way you’re making a ball out of this! HOWEVER, it made a delicious dip/spread for gram crackers and apples! My 18mo tried to eat it with a spoon…I followed suit. Yum! But alas, that seemed like the opposite of a healthy snack (ala spoon in the PB jar). I made another batch, altogether this time around, except I ran out of vanilla so I thought I needed to add SOMETHING. I opted for cinnamon. It takes it to a whole new level. Then of course, rolling it in the powdered PB like last time! LOL! I just LOVE these little delightful things!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Too funny!!! I’m glad you found a way to enjoy them!!!

  10. Franzi Avatar
    Franzi

    Made them today and I love the sweet from the dates . I used almonds, cos I don´t like walnuts. The crunchy yet gooey is great!
    Thanks from Germany :)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh I’m so glad you love them!!

  11. Heather Avatar
    Heather

    OMG!! I did it! I rolled them in PB2 (powdered peanut butter) because they were kinda sticky and I cried. I did. Just like a Reese’s laced brownie. Sigh. These have officially changed my life.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      You are a genius!!!! Trying this soon!

  12. Heather Avatar
    Heather

    NO! This is impossible!! Dates, walnuts, Cocoa…BAM! Brownies! My gluten free daughter is going to cry! These are so insanely delicious, and I am a junk food junkie! I have a hard time with “healthy treats” but these will be a staple from now on in this house! I’m giddy with excitement! I’ve also started to wonder if rolling them in powdered peanut butter (another new discovery that had changed my world!!) or adding instant coffee powder or even peanut butter (probably would have to add oats too eh?) would bring tears to my eyes. Everything you make is out of this world!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      You are so sweet – thank you so much!! I LOVE your ideas of adding in PB2 or peanut butter!! You’re a gal after my own heart!

  13. Erin Avatar
    Erin

    I just shared these delicious, healthy bites on my blog: fiteverydaymom.blogspot.com. Perfect for busy women who want to eat well at home or on-the-go. When I make a batch of these, they don’t last very long! I also found dates very reasonably priced at my local ALDi store so I know what I will be making soon;).

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      So glad! Enjoy!

  14. Jessica Avatar
    Jessica

    Do you think it would be possible to substitute the dates with prunes? The dates are kind of expensive, and prunes are cheaper. I just made them with prunes, and I am truly surprised at how delicious they are! I am bringing some into work today to show people that being healthy can be affordable and tasty!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes absolutely!! Great idea!

  15. Sandra Avatar
    Sandra

    Hey! Can I switch out the dates and add something else instead? Looks delicious but I’m not a big fan of dates ..

    Thanks!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      What about figs? I’ve never tried it but I feel like it would work!

  16. Destinee Avatar
    Destinee

    These were wonderful!! I made about fifteen. Came out to be about 90 calories a ball. Worth every bite thank you for the recipe! :D

  17. Keely Avatar
    Keely

    I make these with cashews, some instant coffee and a little chocolate protein powder. They are my pre-run snack.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Awesome idea!!

  18. Hawco Avatar
    Hawco

    Hi Liz, thanks for posting what looks like such a convenient and satisfying recipe. I eat dates all the time to satisfy my sweet tooth, so this would definitely be an upgrade. I have one question though: is the 1 teaspoon of vanilla the liquid artificial vanilla you get in a small bottle or the much more expensive vanilla clove you can buy? Thanks for the clarification.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Hawco – I use vanilla extract from a bottle. Enjoy!!

  19. Jennie @themessybakerblog Avatar
    Jennie @themessybakerblog

    Liz, these look wonderful. I love making and consuming energy bites. Their treats without all of the guilt. Best. Invention. Ever!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      You and me both!!!

  20. Jessica @ A Kitchen Addiction Avatar
    Jessica @ A Kitchen Addiction

    Healthy brownie bites?! Yes, please!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Sending 10 your way!

  21. Sophia @ NY Foodgasm Avatar
    Sophia @ NY Foodgasm

    This is a FANTASTIC recipe! Absolutely LOVE it! You’re so right dates are EVERYWHERE! I think it is because of all those energy bars that use them! I just read your weight loss story and that is AWESOME! I love the before and after. I lost 73 pounds and that is why I started my food blog. Hoping to lose a few more at some point.

  22. Phi @ The Sweetphi Blog Avatar
    Phi @ The Sweetphi Blog

    These.Look.AMAZING!!!!! I love how they only have 5 Ingredients and taste like brownies, I am definitely going to have to try these to keep on hand for when I crave brownies, which is like every day, so I best head to the grocery store asap to make these! Also, walnuts are incredible for memory retention I’ve heard, so after making these little bad boys maybe I won’t forget have the items on my grocery list? haha

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      They are?!! Ok then I need to eat walnuts daily!!

      1. Phi @ The Sweetphi Blog Avatar
        Phi @ The Sweetphi Blog

        They definitely are – because of the vitamin E they provide- and I even read somewhere that they are the ‘ultimate’ brain food…and if I can have the walnuts in the form of a chocolate brownie energy bite…omg sign.me.up!!

  23. Norma | Allspice and Nutmeg Avatar
    Norma | Allspice and Nutmeg

    This is right up my alley. Thanks for reminding me to pull those dates out of the freezer and use them.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      YES this would be perfect for those dates!

  24. sheila Avatar
    sheila

    I recently tried to replicate the larabar which I love but my pocket book does not! I came up with a similiar bite such as this…only mine did not have chocolate. I love the chocolate version!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I always tend to buy chocolately bars like the chocolate brownie luna bar. This was dead on, I couldn’t believe it!

  25. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    I love having sweet but still good-for-me snacks around! These are totally getting made! I think they would be the perfect pre-workout treat!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      YES I actually made these on a gym day and they were so good!

  26. Gaby Avatar
    Gaby

    Brilliant! Can’t wait to try them!

  27. Mariana @The Candid Kitchen Avatar
    Mariana @The Candid Kitchen

    I was looking for something like this to have after my gym sessions to stop me from running to the nutella pot and ruining my workout. This is perfect!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      These are ideal before or after a workout!! Let me know if you try them!

  28. julia Avatar
    julia

    I am lacking energy these days and love this idea. :)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      ha!! You and me both. ;-)

  29. Alyssa (Everyday Maven) Avatar
    Alyssa (Everyday Maven)

    Love these Liz! I make something similar with almonds but I bet the walnuts really do make them taste like brownies. I am making these next!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes the walnuts for some reason just turn them into full-on brownie mode. I adore them!

  30. Lauren @ Climbing Grier Mountain Avatar
    Lauren @ Climbing Grier Mountain

    Chocolate brownie that’s actually good for you?!!! I’ll take 57, pa-lease?!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes girl!!!! You can have 58!

  31. MJ Avatar
    MJ

    STOP IT. I need to go buy dates!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes you do!! :)

  32. Laurie {Simply Scratch} Avatar
    Laurie {Simply Scratch}

    I’ve loved dates since I was a kid! They were in a cereal my mom would by from our co-op and I would save them until the end and eat them last! I have a container of dates on the counter and I know what I’m making!! <3

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      oh my gosh I love that story!!!!

  33. Ali | Gimme Some Oven Avatar
    Ali | Gimme Some Oven

    YUM!!! Had to click on these through feedly, and then saw your link — thank you! :) And now I totally want to make a batch. Love those walnuts!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yay!! Thanks for the push to make these!! I’m obsessed with brownie Luna bars and these tasted just like them!! :)

  34. Brian @ A Thought For Food Avatar
    Brian @ A Thought For Food

    These are breakfast treats, right?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Of course they count as breakfast!

  35. Yessica Avatar
    Yessica

    This seems easy to make!!

    I’m not really fond of dates unfortunately. Do you have any substitutes for it?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hmm…. I’ve never made them with anything else but what about figs?

    2. Charkene Avatar
      Charkene

      Another binding fruit that you could use are dried prunes. The only doen side is it will make them sweeter.

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Good call!

  36. Meagan @ A Zesty Bite Avatar
    Meagan @ A Zesty Bite

    Yay for me because I have all of these ingredients! What a great snack.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      YAY!! I hope you make them!!

  37. steph@stephsbitebybite Avatar
    steph@stephsbitebybite

    Oh my gosh, I love dates, but usually just eat them with a spoon of peanut butter. But these look like such a fun treat!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Omg why have I never eaten them with peanut butter??

  38. Jocelyn @BruCrew Life Avatar
    Jocelyn @BruCrew Life

    Healthy little bites that taste like brownies…sounds perfect to me!!!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      My thoughts exactly!! xo

  39. Julie Avatar
    Julie

    This is perfect! I have all of these ingredients in my pantry (I love dates. Our family is a lot like your family in the dessert deal). Do believe I’ll make these for us to munch on. :)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh I love that!!! I hope you like them!!

  40. Taylor @ Food Faith Fitness Avatar
    Taylor @ Food Faith Fitness

    So, let’s get this straight. 5 ingredients and it tastes like a brownie but it’s healthy?
    You never cease to amaze liz! Pinned

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      hahah You’re too sweet!! I am all about easy!! :)

  41. Kim | Just For Clicks Avatar
    Kim | Just For Clicks

    I love these energy balls. I’ve tried a few versions and they are the perfect snack to keep on hand. Can’t wait to try this one!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Every time I make them I kick myself for not making them more often! I hope you like this version!