Easy No-Cook Oatmeal and Date Balls

If you’ve ever ventured into a vegan cafe, you may have seen a variety of energy ball treats beautifully displayed behind a glass showcase. They are vegan and can be gluten-free (if gluten-free oats are used). These oatmeal and date balls are a quick, easy to make, no cook treat that the whole family can enjoy.

Materials:
Vitamix blender or food processor
Measuring cups and spoons
Storage container/baking pan
Ice cream scooper
Parchment paper

Ingredients:
15 dates (pitted)
1/4 cup dried goji berries
1/2 cup organic oats
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 Tablespoons almond butter
1 Tablespoon water

Directions:
Blend dates in Vitamix (or food processor) on a low variable setting until the dates are broken down into tiny fragments. Add remaining ingredients - goji berries, organic oats, cinnamon, almond butter, and water to the blender and blend on low variable until it is evenly mixed. You will need to mix the ingredients by hand in between the blending cycle if using a Vitamix as the ingredients stick to the bottom of the blender and blade. Line a baking pan with parchment paper. Remove the ingredients from the blender and roll them into balls about the size of an ice cream scoop. Refrigerate for 1 hour and enjoy!

Makes 8-10 (depending on how big or small you make them)

References:
Rigsby, S. (n.d.). Oatmeal treats take 5 minutes to make. USA Today Network - Florida.