Save Hojicha Energy Balls are a delicious, no-bake snack featuring roasted hojicha tea powder, nuts, and dates for a naturally sweet and energizing bite—perfect for a quick pick-me-up. This Japanese-inspired recipe creates a wholesome treat that is both vegan and gluten-free.
Save These energy balls are incredibly versatile, making them an ideal choice for meal prepping. The combination of creamy cashews and crunchy almonds provides a satisfying base for the rich flavor of the roasted green tea.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup raw almonds
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- 2 tbsp chia seeds (optional for added fiber)
- 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted (about 10–12 dates)
- 2 tbsp hojicha powder (roasted green tea powder)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 2 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut (for rolling)
- 1 tbsp cacao nibs or mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- 1. Chop Nuts
- Place almonds and cashews in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped but not powdery.
- 2. Combine Base
- Add the pitted dates, hojicha powder, chia seeds (if using), vanilla extract, and salt. Process until the mixture starts to clump together.
- 3. Adjust Consistency
- If the mixture seems dry, add 1–2 tsp water and pulse again until sticky and cohesive.
- 4. Add Texture
- Stir in cacao nibs or chocolate chips if desired.
- 5. Shape
- With damp hands, roll the mixture into 12 equal-sized balls (about 1 tablespoon each).
- 6. Coat
- Roll each ball in shredded coconut if desired.
- 7. Store
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
If your dates are a bit dry, you can soak them in warm water for a few minutes before processing. To ensure the balls roll easily, keeping your hands slightly damp is key to preventing the sticky mixture from clinging to your palms.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute walnuts or pecans for almonds and cashews if you prefer a different nut profile. For a nut-free version, use a combination of sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds as a base.
Serviervorschläge
Enjoy these Hojicha energy balls with a warm cup of matcha or roasted green tea for a delightful snack pairing. They also freeze well for up to 1 month, making them perfect for grabbing on the go.
Save Whether you need a mid-afternoon boost or a healthy evening treat, these Hojicha Energy Balls provide 190 calories and 4g of protein per serving, ensuring you stay fueled and satisfied throughout the day.
Recipe FAQs
- → What does hojicha taste like?
Hojicha has a distinctive roasted, earthy flavor with notes of caramel and subtle sweetness. Unlike other green teas, it's lower in caffeine and has a reddish-brown color from the roasting process.
- → How long do these energy balls keep?
Store these hojicha energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They also freeze beautifully for up to 1 month if you want to make a larger batch.
- → Can I make these nut-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the almonds and cashews with sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version that still provides crunch and protein.
- → Why is my mixture too dry or crumbly?
If the mixture won't hold together, add 1-2 teaspoons of water and pulse again. The moisture content can vary depending on your dates, so adjust as needed until sticky and cohesive.
- → Can I use matcha instead of hojicha?
Yes, though the flavor profile will change. Matcha is more grassy and vibrant, while hojicha offers a deeper, roasted taste. Use the same amount if substituting.