Matt wants me to call these "Amaze-balls" but I couldn't bring myself do it...

Since I am often up super early to teach and almost always running late, I need something quick, energizing and easy to eat. Most of the time I am eating on the way to my first client or class. This is the exact opposite of how I advise my clients to eat breakfast in the morning, so this is a serious case of "do as I say, not as I do". However, these bites (or balls, you can call them balls) are perfect if you are working out in the morning and don't want to eat a full meal or even for dessert. Afternoon pick me up? Oh yeah. Anytime really!

The mixture of dates, oats, almond butter and chocolate is amazzzzzing. Filling and full of flavor. Good fats and lots of other key nutrients make these a healthy snack. Also husband approved! PLUS they are super easy to make and take maybe 10 minutes to throw together.

The dates almost look like bacon. DO NOT use bacon!

These bites are a combo of a few different recipes plus a few others I threw in. Following recipes is really not my thing and I like to improvise a) because I'm a bit picky about flavors b) I omit any steps that I think will take too long and c) because I am almost always missing 1 key ingredient. I don't take cooking or baking too seriously which is also why its tough for me to record a recipe. Below is how I made these delicious little balls but feel free to modify however you see fit!

Chocolate & Date Protein Bites

1.5 cup gluten free oats
5-7 dates chopped (depending on size)
3/4 cup almond milk
1.5 tbsp almond butter (or any other nut butter)
1 scoop organic vegan protein powder (I use Plant Fusion OR Perfect Fit)
1 tbsp flax seeds
1 tbsp slivered almonds
Chocolate chips....no clue how much. I'll leave that up to you ;)
Shaved coconut on top

Directions: Add all ingredients into a medium sized mixing bowl. I used my muscles to stir with a spoon and got in with my hands to mix, but I suppose you could use a hand mixer or Vitamix. Using just your hands keeps them crunchy since all the pieces are whole. If you prefer them smoother like a LaraBar I suggest a Vitamix (or food processor).

Roll golf ball sized balls and place on baking sheet. Warning: your hands will be covered with almond butter and oats so try not to touch anything in your kitchen. Should make 16-18 balls. Top with coconut and place in the refrigerator for 20-25 minutes before eating.

These should last a few days or you can freeze and thaw for a later. They are SO good!