Chocolate Maca Balls are a perfect HEALTHY treat - sweet, chewy, and delicious, loaded with amazing flavors and aphrodisiac benefits of maca. They are an easy-to-make nutrient-packed snack that will satisfy your sweet tooth and uplift your mood. Perfect treat for Valentine's Day!
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Me and my hubs, we are not much into Valentine's Day celebration. Well, not in that excessive sense - we don't shower each other with luxury gifts and go out for fine dining. We are more a simple types. We like to open a bottle of wine and dine at home. Nothing fancy. Nothing glamorous. Just relaxing date night at home. After the dinner, we like to get ourselves cozy on the couch and enjoy some romantic movie. With munchies, sweet treats, and smooching included.
While hubs is in charge of preparing Valentine's dinner, desserts and treats are my thing. Chocolate Tahini Brownies or Chocolate Cherry Brownies, either are WIN with him! Well, we both love brownies. Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it's a real treat. But this year I decided to make him something extra (beside brownies). We will both enjoy this Chocolate Maca Balls as an additional treat.
These little delights are utterly delicious. Sweet and soft inside, loaded with amazing flavor and aphrodisiac powers from MACA. + Cinnamon-y and packed with dark chocolate bits. Perfect! But these maca chocolate balls are more than just tasty little things. They are packed with many nutrients and SUPERFOODS, filling and so HEALTHY - ideal on-to-go snack for any-day, not just celebrations and special occasions.
The best part is, these maca chocolate balls don't require baking. They are easily done in 15 minutes, with just a few simple ingredients. Great last minute Valentine's Day dessert!
Chocolate Maca Balls ingredients
All ingredients in this recipe contribute to our health in some way, so this treat is not just the empty sweet calories. To make these delightful little balls, you will need few simple ingredients:
- WALNUTS: Walnuts are a good source of the plant-based omega-3 fat, an essential fatty acid, and an excellent source of antioxidants that fights inflammation. (1) Walnuts enhanced these energy balls with many nutrients but also wonderful nutty taste and texture. + They are known as aphrodisiac food. You can swap walnuts with almonds here.
- CACAO POWDER: I used raw cacao powder that is unprocessed, bitter, deep-flavored and incredibly healthy. Cacao is one of the richest sources of polyphenols – an antioxidant that has been linked to many health benefits, including reduced inflammation, better blood flow, lower blood pressure, and improved cholesterol and blood sugar levels. (2) Cacao gave a gorgeous chocolaty flavor and made these energy balls absolutely irresistible.
- MACA POWDER: Maca is in one word – amazing! Some dislike it’s earthy nutty taste but I love it. It’s a SUPERFOOD known to boost mood, sex drive, energy and stamina. Maca Powder contains nutritious vitamins, minerals, amino acids and plant sterols, including vitamins B1, B2, B, C, D, E, iron, potassium, copper, magnesium, selenium, phosphorous and calcium. Maca powder is also a source of plant protein, fatty acids, and it contains four unique alkaloids. Also, maca is loaded with powerful antioxidants that prevent some health conditions, including heart disease and cancer. (3, 4)
- CEYLON CINNAMON: Cinnamon enhanced these maca choclate balls with a truly wonderful flavor. Also, cinnamon is loaded with powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties. (5, 6)
- DATES: Dates are great addition when making energy balls. They bind other ingredients together but also give natural sweetness. But dates also have an excellent nutrition profile. They are packed with many vitamins and minerals, as well as with antioxidants. (7)
I also tossed in some more SUPERFOODS (these are optional, but highly recommended):
- CACAO NIBS: Cacao nibs are basically a small pieces of crushed cacao beans that have a rich bitter chocolate flavor. They are great and healthier option when you want to add a bit of extra chocolate in your treats. Cacao nibs are not only flavorful, but loaded with nutrients – fiber, protein, and healthy fats, as well as with powerful antioxidants – flavonoids, that have many health benefits. (8, 9) I used Yacon sweetened cacao nibs here. They have the bitterness of raw cacao but with subtle added sweetness. I like to use cacao nibs as a replacement for dark chocolate chips wherever I can especially when making no-bake treats like no bake balls. They give a little crunch which I love in soft no bake protein balls. You can substitute cacao nibs with dark chocolate chips.
- GOJI BERRIES: Goji berries are very nutritious. They are high in fiber, protein and a range of vitamins and minerals including iron, copper, selenium, and vitamins A and C. Also they are packed full of powerful antioxidants that fight inflammation and boost immunity.
How to make Chocolate Maca Balls
- Prepare and measure all ingredients using measuring cups.
- Soak 10 pitted Medjool dates in hot water for a few minutes. Drain, and reserve water.
- Take a high-speed food processor and add 10 dates, 1/2 cup walnuts, 2 tablespoon cacao powder, 2 tablespoon maca powder, 1 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon and pinch of salt. Process everything on high speed for about two minutes until the dough is formed.
- Don’t worry if the dough seems dry in the beginning. Just continue mixing. Dates will release juices and make it sticky. Scrap down the dough with spatula if needed.
- After two minutes, stop the processing and check texture by pinching the dough between your fingers. Now it should be sticky and able to keep its shape.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a bit of hot water from soaking dates (just a teaspoon). Mix again and check the texture.
- Make sure you taste the dough. These chocolate energy balls are mildly sweet so if you feel like you need a bit more sweetness, feel free to add a teaspoon of maple syrup, raw honey or date syrup. Molasses is good here too.
- If you’re adding liquid sweetener, as suggested then there’s no need to add hot water. Sweetener will bind the dough and make texture sticky.
- In the end, add the 1/4 cup Goji berries and 1/4 cup Yacon sweetened cacao nibs. Pulse everything for half more minute.
- Using a spoon, scoop out dough and roll between your palms to form your balls. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Roll the balls in crushed Goji berries or Goji berries powder (for gorgeous red color), or cacao powder, or ground walnuts.
- Place energy balls on a plate, serving tray or in an airtight container and refrigerate to harden.
Substitutions
- Substitute WALNUTS with almonds in same amount.
- Substitute DATES with dried figs or dried prunes.
- Substitute Yacon sweetened cacao nibs with dark chocolate chips or regular cacao nibs. Be aware that regular cacao nibs are bitter in taste and hard to chew.
- Substitute GOJI BERRIES with any dried fruit, or just omit in the recipe.
Tips for storing
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge until serving for up to 4 weeks.
- Place in a zip-lock bag and freeze for up to 3 months. You don’t need to thaw the balls to eat them.
Chocolate Maca Balls are packed with nutrients, immune boosting vitamins and minerals as well with some powerful antioxidants. They are beautifully flavored and so delicious – chewy, sweet and so addictive. Perfect treat for ANY occasion and celebration, but great as a simple everyday snack too.
Chocolate Maca Balls will satisfy your sweet tooth, power your afternoon and definitely boost your mood. + They are totally guilt-free as they don't have any added-sugars! Win!
Enjoy!
Chocolate Maca Balls recipe
Ingredients
- 10 Medjool dates
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 2 tablespoon cacao powder
- 2 tablespoon maca powder
- 1 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup Goji berries
- 1/4 cup cacao nibs or dark chocolate chips
- For dusting: Goji berries or Goji berries powder cacao powder, or ground walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare and measure all ingredients using measuring cups.
- Soak 10 pitted Medjool dates in hot water for a few minutes. Drain, and reserve water.
- Take a high-speed food processor and add 10 dates, 1/2 cup walnuts, 2 tablespoon cacao powder, 2 tablespoon maca powder, 1 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon and pinch of salt. Process everything on high speed for about two minutes until the dough is formed.
- Don’t worry if the dough seems dry in the beginning. Just continue mixing. Dates will release juices and make it sticky. Scrap down the dough with spatula if needed.
- After two minutes, stop the processing and check texture by pinching the dough between your fingers. Now it should be sticky and able to keep its shape.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a bit of hot water from soaking dates (just a teaspoon). Mix again and check the texture.
- Make sure you taste the dough. These chocolate energy balls are mildly sweet so if you feel like you need a bit more sweetness, feel free to add a teaspoon of maple syrup, raw honey or date syrup. Molasses is good here too.
- If you’re adding liquid sweetener, as suggested then there’s no need to add hot water. Sweetener will bind the dough and make texture sticky.
- In the end, add the 1/4 cup Goji berries and 1/4 cup Yacon sweetened cacao nibs. Pulse everything for half more minute.
- Using a spoon, scoop out dough and roll between your palms to form your balls. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Roll the balls in crushed Goji berries or Goji berries powder (for gorgeous red color), or cacao powder, or ground walnuts.
- Place energy balls on a plate, serving tray or in an airtight container and refrigerate to harden.
Notes
Substitute WALNUTS with almonds in same amount.
Substitute DATES with dried figs or dried prunes.
Substitute Yacon sweetened cacao nibs with dark chocolate chips or regular cacao nibs. Be aware that regular cacao nibs are bitter in taste and hard to chew.
Substitute GOJI BERRIES with any dried fruit, or just omit in the recipe.
Tips for storing
Store in an airtight container in the fridge until serving for up to 4 weeks.
Place in a zip-lock bag and freeze for up to 3 months. You don’t need to thaw the balls to eat them. As a measure, I used US cup (240ml). Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but I have endeavored to be as accurate as possible.
Nutrition
More energy balls recipes
If you’re looking for more delicious ENERGY BALLS RECIPES, check these out:
- No Bake Peanut Butter Balls
- Hazelnut Chocolate Balls
- Peanut Butter Energy Balls
- Chocolate Cinnamon Balls
If you’ve tried this Chocolate Maca Balls recipe or any other recipe on Natalie’s Health, please take a minute to rate the recipe and leave a comment letting me know how you liked it. I love hearing from you!
These are definitely the perfect, healthy, filling treat! Great to keep in the fridge for a pick me up... thank you for the great recipe!
I want to do my own version of Chocolate Maca Balls. It looks so tempting and so yummy! I want it now. Yum!
I love the idea of using walnuts instead of almonds. I have a big love affair with walnuts and chocolate together!
Your Chocolate Macha Balls sound like a perfect and healthy low key Valentine's Day Treat for you and your husband. We basically do the same for Valentine's day..very low key for us too. I am putting a few items on my list so I can make these little jewels.
Wow, these are truly amazing! I usually add maca and cinnamon to smoothies but this recipe is so much better! Can't wait to make them. Thanks for sharing.
And totally adding everything I need to make these to the shopping list! They sound amazing! I bet the liquid from the soaking dates is amazing too - love that I can use it too!
I haven't heard about Maca but I would like to try it. Thanks for sharing the recipe.
I’ve never tried or even heard of maca! But I do like myself some chocolate :) I have to try this!
These sound delicious! Happy Valentine’s Day!
I heard the power of maca! Looks good I would love to try these maca superfood balls.
They look so yummy! Perfect chocolate for Valentines Day! Thanks for sharing.
Wow...this is the first time I've heard of these but I will try anything with chocolate and the cinnamon spice and goji berry combination sound extremely fascinating! If the "effects" are what they claim, this should make our Valentine's day very interesting! Looking forward to trying this!
These balls look so appetizing. Perfect for Valentine's day! Nutritious desserts always good for kids as well.
Glad that dates are also added as they are healthy ingredients, what a brilliant idea and how come I have never thought of that. I will try out.
Fantastic chocolate balls to make this week - such a timely recipe. I especially love their looks - absolutely amazing!
These look like a great valentines snack. I will make them and take them o my daughters party.
Loving this healthy valentine treat idea! We can definitely get on sugar overload in this house for special occasions like Valentine's Day.
These look amazing! I love adding maca to my smoothies, will have to give this recipe a try!!
I would put these balls In my mouth SO FAST ;) But seriously. they sound and look delicious!
This recipe looks so delicious, and my kids will love it! I can't wait to try this with them!
These CHOCOLATE MACA BALLS look amazing! I've never had them before, but I think my husband will be fascinated by this recipe. Thanks for sharing it.
THese look so good! I love the flavors in them. Perfect for a snack or especially Valentine's Day.
Yep... definitely have to try these. Chocolate maca balls sound like something I need!
Ahh I am in South America right now and maca is everywhere! So cool to see it making its way over there too. Such a unique and healthy ingredient, and makes for great recipes too!
ooh. these sound amazing. as do the other recipes you linked! I would love to make something like this just to have on hand!
I used to use Maca all the time and the stopped. I need to get back to it and treat myself. These looks like a great start!
Aaaahhhhh...these look really nice! I will surely try them out.
I haven't made energy balls in a while, but I really should again! They make for such great pick-me-up snacks! :] These look delicious!
Thank you so much for providing substitutions! I dislike dates so I really appreciate that there are other items I can substitute for them! Thanks!
I have never used Maca Powder before, but I've seen it on the shelves before. This is a fun way to use it! Thanks for the idea.
What a wonderful and comprehensive recipe post. I love that you've listed nutrients, history, substitutions and a summary! I love the nutty taste of Maca, too. The combination with dried fruits and cacao and chocolate sounds so delicious, my mouth is already watering at the thought.
I’m really making it a point to focus on my health and wellness right now and am always looking for a healthy snack. This recipe is right up my alley. Thanks for sharing!
These look delicious. Cannot wait to try.
I also love baking with dates. Adding in the Goji berries sounds like a delicious combination
ahhhh give me give me give me!!! These maca balls look so delicious!!! I can't wait to make me some.
I need these in my life immediately! They look so good, and I love that they're healthy.
If I can have sweets that are also healthy, I'm all over it. I can't wait to make these.
I'm with you in regards to Valentine's Day. My husband and I never go out on the day, and honestly, I get a bit exasperated by the commercial nature of the holiday. Do we really need to spend extra money on flowers and chocolates just because it's the 14th of February? That said, I am TOTALLY going to make this this week because chocolate and Maca is ALWAYS a good idea. Thank you so much for a great recipe!
I'm loving all the ingredients in these, especially the dark chocolate!
Dining and fine gifts are part of expressing gratitude. And for me that’s what valentines means to me being grateful. These look delicious.
Wow these look amazing! Not only the recipe but how festive, too!
Mmm those look so good! So awesome you used dates, I love dates!
I love that you added the wonderful benefits that Maca offers to these yummy treats! I am for sure browsing around after this to check out your many recipe ideas as I am looking to continue on my health and wellness journey and these are perfect for me :)
Great way to integrate maca into an energy ball. Love that you added cinnamon too gives a nice contrast to the chocolate
I've seen so many recipes with maca powder and I will I love to try this one.
You have chosen the color of Valentine's Day par excellence, red, with the ingredient of love number one: chocolate. Fantastic match!
ooooo I think I have everything to make these. They look so good!
I was just looking for a maca recipe and came across this treat - can't wait to try it. I have some beautiful chinese cinnamon that I will use too. Great Valentine's Day after dinner treat! Thanks for the inspiration.
These maca balls sound amazing and so easy to make. We'll enjoy them this weekend :)
I love the simple ingredients in this recipe, and they are so festive!
I have yet to use maca powder, so this is recipe is a keeper! Also, a perfect treat for Valentine's Day! We just can't eat too many or we'll be in trouble, lol. ;)
These look super yummy and would definitely satisfy my sweet tooth!