- Place dates and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until water evaporates. Remove from heat.
- Puree dates with a fork.
- Add chocolate and stir until melted (some small pieces may remain).
- Add the orange zest, juice, coconut and oats, and mix well.
- Shape 12 to 15 small balls with your hands.
Coating
- Optional: Grill coconut in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or until golden brown.
- Place coconut in a medium-sized bowl.
- Roll date balls in coconut, pressing lightly to coat well.
Chef’s secret
Prefer a different shape to your bites? Simply spread the mixture firmly on a baking sheet, sprinkle with coconut and cut into squares!
DIETITIAN’S TIP: For extra energy, just add seeds, nuts, peanuts, or almond, nut or seed butters!