These date energy balls are probably the easiest date balls you’ll come across! With only 2 main ingredients (plus an optional one for coating if you’re feeling fancy!).
Looking for a healthy, naturally sweet snack that comes together in minutes and requires almost no effort? These 3-ingredient olive oil date energy balls will become your new go-to treat. Soft, chewy, and rich with caramel-like flavour from the dates, they’re balanced beautifully by the smoothness of olive oil and the subtle crunch of the optional toasted sesame seeds.
This one is for all the date fans out there who love the chewy fudgy texture and natural caramel sweetness of dates. This recipe takes the humble fruit from delicious to absolutely divine! By just adding a drizzle of olive oil you can turn a handful of dates into a sophisticated, healthy treat.
Whether you’re craving an afternoon pick-me-up or a post-dinner nibble, these little bites check all the boxes: quick, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying.
Why I love making these date energy balls:
- Dates are sticky and dense, both of which I love, but adding just a little bit of olive oil helps soften and loosen them, making it easier to mould and shape into balls. The oil adds a smooth, silky quality that balances the chewiness of the dates.
- Dates make a great snack, but they’re high in natural sugars and fibre and are lacking in fat. Olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats turning them into a more balancing and satisfying snack.
- Adding olive oil helps slow the absorption of sugars, reducing blood sugar spikes. It also balances out the sweetness of the dates and adds a sophisticated depth of flavour.
Why you need to try these date energy balls
Naturally sweet – No added sugar needed thanks to the dates.
Healthy fats – Olive oil is packed with heart healthy polyphenols which act as antioxidants. Not to mention it also adds richness, softens the dates and helps make them more satisfying.
Versatile – Add-ins like cocoa powder, coconut, or chopped nuts take them to the next level.
No bake, no fuss – Perfect for hot days or busy weeks.
How to make these date energy balls:
What you’ll need to make these date energy balls:
Dates – I love using Palestinian Medjool dates as they have the best fudgy, soft texture and have just the right level of sweetness without being too sweet.
Olive oil – You’ll only need a couple of tablespoons of a good quality olive oil. I always use Palestinian extra virgin olive oil – it has the best taste that complements the dates perfectly. It adds richness to the dates as well as a hint of bitterness that cuts through the sweetness so beautifully.
Sesame seeds (optional) – For extra texture and a toasty flavour, roll each ball in a shallow dish of sesame seeds. This is completely optional, but absolutely recommended!
How to make these date energy balls:
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Add the dates and olive oil to a pan and cook over a low-medium heat.
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Use the pack of a wooden spoon to mash down the dates as they cook in the oil. Add an optional sprinkle of salt.
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Once you have a smooth paste, remove from the heat and leave to cool enough to handle with your hands.
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Shape into balls, then dip in some toasted sesame seeds for extra flavour and some crunch.
Pro tips
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
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You can roll them in anything really, think things like crushed pistachios, cocoa powder, coconut flakes, etc.
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Make a double batch — these disappear fast!
These date energy balls are:
- Healthy
- Easy to make
- Only call for 2 main ingredients
- Made in a pan, so no food processor needed to make them
- A source of fibre, antioxidants and healthy fats
- The perfect mid-day treat or light post dinner treat
- Great to take with you on the go
- Great addition to add to lunch boxes
- Vegan
- Dairy-free
- Gluten-free
- Nut-free
- Soy-free
- So tasty!
Date Energy Balls
Ingredients
- 300 g Medjool dates
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- toasted sesame seeds optional
- Pinch of salt optional
Instructions
- Add the dates and olive oil to a pan and cook over a low-medium heat.
- Use the pack of a wooden spoon to mash down the dates as they cook in the oil. Add an optional sprinkle of salt.
- Once you have a smooth paste, remove from the heat and leave to cool enough to handle with your hands.
- Shape into balls, then dip in some toasted sesame seeds for extra flavour and some crunch.
Nutrition
Whether you enjoy them as a healthy snack, a light dessert, or a portable energy bite, these date energy balls are proof that the simplest recipes are often the best!
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