Black Bean & Cacao Energy Bites with Coconut

These no-bake energy bites are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a perfect snack to keep you energized throughout the day. The black beans add a surprising creaminess and boost of nutrients, while the cacao provides a rich chocolate flavor. Rolled oats and coconut add texture and sweetness.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Total Time

15 minutes

Calories

155 kcal

Difficulty

Easy

Equipment

4 items

Cost

£0.36/serving

Season:

🌍 Year-round

Meal Type:

Snack•Bread

Cuisine:

Thai

Cooking Style:

Quick & Easy

Dietary:

Gluten-Free•Dairy-Free

Mood:

Comfort Food•Healthy

Ingredients

Servings

1cupBlack beans(Rinsed and drained thoroughly)

£0.30

1cupRolled oats(Quick or old-fashioned)

£0.20

0.3cupUnsweetened cacao powder(Can substitute with cocoa powder)

£0.60

0.5cupShredded coconut(Unsweetened, plus more for rolling (optional))

£0.40

6datesMedjool dates(Pitted and soaked in hot water for 5 minutes if dry)

£1.50

0.3cupPeanut butter (or almond butter)(Creamy or crunchy)

£0.50

1tablespoonChia seeds(Optional)

£0.25

1tablespoonsMaple syrup(Optional, adjust to taste for sweetness)

£0.40

0.5teaspoonVanilla extract(Optional)

£0.15

0.1teaspoonPinch of salt(Enhances flavor)

Total Cost

£4.30

£0.36 per serving

Instructions

1.
Place the black beans, oats, cacao powder, shredded coconut, dates, peanut butter, chia seeds (if using), maple syrup (if using), vanilla extract (if using), and salt into a food processor.
2.
Process until the mixture is well combined and forms a sticky dough. You may need to scrape down the sides of the food processor several times.
3.
If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water or plant-based milk at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
4.
Using your hands, roll the mixture into bite-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
5.
If desired, roll the energy bites in shredded coconut.
6.
Place the energy bites on a baking sheet or plate. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
7.
Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to a month.

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My Notes

Nutrition Information

Nutrition per serving (38g)

155 kcal / 649 kJ

Carbs

17.3g

7% of RDA

Fat

7.9g

11% of RDA

Protein

5.4g

11% of RDA

Detailed Breakdown

Fibre

4.5 g

15% of RDA

Sugar

7.6 g

8% of RDA

Sodium

35 mg

2% of RDA

Saturated Fat

3.5 g

18% of RDA

Chef's Tips

Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup.

For a nut-free version, substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter.

Experiment with different toppings, such as chopped nuts, sprinkles, or more cacao powder.

Soaking the dates in hot water for 5 minutes before blending makes them easier to process and results in a smoother texture.

If you find the mixture sticking to your hands, lightly dampen them with water before rolling the balls.

Cooking Equipment

Food processor

Mixing bowl

Measuring cups and spoons

Baking sheet (optional, for chilling)

Wine Pairings

No wine pairing suggestions available for this recipe.

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