Kid-Approved Energy Balls

While we wish summer would always stay a bit longer, the first days of school are quickly approaching. Back-to-school doesn't just mean going back to classes and getting into more regular routines than summer, but also back to packing lunches and endless afternoon snacks. One favorite that we'll be prepping ahead of this school year are these kid-approved energy balls, packed with healthy fats from cashews and dates. We like to pair these with our organic, cold-pressed fruit and vegetable Living Juices for a balanced snack to get us (and our kids) through the day! 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup organic, raw cashews (unsalted)
• 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted (about 10–12 dates)
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut (optional, plus extra for rolling)
• 1 tablespoon cacao powder (or unsweetened cocoa powder) – optional, for a chocolatey flavor kids love
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds or ground flax (optional, for extra fiber, but helpful for creating cohesive balls)
• Pinch of salt
• 1–2 teaspoons water (only if needed to help mixture stick)

Recipe: 

1. Soak the dates: For best results, soak the dates in warm water for 5–10 minutes, then drain well. This will make blending easier.
2. Blend the cashews: Add cashews to a food processor and pulse until finely ground (like coarse sand).
3. Add dates & extras: Toss in the dates, shredded coconut, cacao powder, chia/flax, and a pinch of salt. Process until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough.
4. If it seems too dry, add 1 teaspoon of water at a time until it sticks when pressed between your fingers.
5. Shape the balls: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time, roll into balls with your hands.
6. Optional coating: Roll balls in extra shredded coconut, cacao powder, or even colorful sprinkles (what kid doesn't love sprinkles!) for fun.
7. Chill & serve: Place the balls on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer storage.

Helpful Tips: 

• To make these nut-free and allergen-friendly, swap out the cashews for 1 cup of rolled oats and 1/2 cup of sunflower seeds (or butter). 
• Adding dark chocolate mini chips make these even sweeter! 
• Kids love to help roll these balls - even if it's a little messy. 
• For a colorful lunchbox surprise, roll the balls in crushed up freeze-dried strawberries!