These Matcha Green Tea Energy Balls bring a bright, earthy flavor with a hint of sweetness, making them an energizing and delicious snack.
With matcha powder providing a gentle caffeine boost and antioxidant-rich dates and cashews creating a creamy, satisfying texture, these energy balls make an ideal mid-morning snack, post-workout treat, or afternoon pick-me-up.
Plus, they’re vegan, gluten-free, and naturally sweetened for a healthy indulgence that tastes just as good as it is for you.
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Ingredients for Matcha Green Tea Energy Balls
Before diving into the recipe, gather these four simple ingredients:
- 1 cup cashews: Adds creamy texture, healthy fats, and plant-based protein.
- 10–12 pitted dates: Naturally sweetens the energy balls and adds fiber.
- 1 tablespoon matcha powder: Provides a boost of energy and a beautiful green color with earthy, mild flavor.
- ¼ cup shredded coconut: Enhances the flavor and adds a touch of texture.
Optional: A pinch of sea salt to balance out the sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Process the Cashews
Begin by adding the cashews to a food processor. Pulse them for about 20–30 seconds, until they form a coarse, crumbly texture. Avoid over-processing the cashews, as you don’t want them to turn into cashew butter. This base will give the energy balls a smooth, slightly crunchy texture.
Step 2: Add the Dates for Sweetness
Next, add the pitted dates to the cashew mixture. If your dates are a bit dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain well. This will make them easier to blend. Pulse the dates and cashews together until they start to form a sticky, cohesive mixture.
Step 3: Blend in the Matcha Powder and Shredded Coconut
Add the matcha powder and shredded coconut to the mixture, blending until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should take on a beautiful green hue from the matcha, and you’ll smell the earthy aroma mixing with the sweet dates. If the mixture seems a bit dry, add a small amount of water (just a teaspoon at a time) to help it bind together.
Step 4: Form into Balls
Once the mixture is ready, it’s time to roll it into energy balls. Take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a ball. Continue this process until you’ve used all of the mixture, yielding around 12–15 energy balls, depending on their size.
Step 5: Optional Coconut Roll
For a beautiful finish and extra coconut flavor, you can roll each energy ball in additional shredded coconut. This adds texture, enhances the coconut flavor, and makes each ball look even more tempting.
Step 6: Chill and Enjoy
Place your completed matcha energy balls on a plate or baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes to help them firm up. Once chilled, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the fridge, where they’ll keep fresh for up to two weeks.
Enjoying Your Matcha Green Tea Energy Balls
These Matcha Green Tea Energy Balls are perfect for:
- A quick breakfast: Grab one or two with your morning coffee or tea to start the day with a gentle energy boost.
- A pre-workout snack: With natural sugars and healthy fats, these balls provide sustained energy, ideal before a workout.
- Afternoon refreshment: Reach for one in the afternoon to get a pick-me-up without reaching for caffeine-heavy drinks.
- Healthy dessert: Their natural sweetness and creamy texture make them a delicious and guilt-free after-dinner treat.
Variations and Customizations
Looking to mix things up? Here are a few fun ideas to customize your matcha energy balls:
- Add more nuts: Substitute half the cashews with almonds, walnuts, or pistachios for a unique flavor twist.
- Include a superfood boost: Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or hemp seeds to increase fiber and protein.
- Extra sweetness: Add a drizzle of maple syrup or a teaspoon of vanilla extract if you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor.
- Citrusy twist: Add a pinch of lemon zest to brighten up the flavor and balance the earthiness of the matcha.
Tips for Perfect Matcha Energy Balls
- Choose fresh dates: For the best texture, use soft, fresh dates. If you only have drier dates, be sure to soak them first.
- Adjust the texture: If your mixture seems too dry, add a tiny bit of water or extra dates until it sticks together. If it’s too sticky, add a little more shredded coconut or cashews.
- Even sizing: Use a small cookie scoop to keep each energy ball uniform. This helps with storage and makes them look beautiful when served.
Health Benefits of Matcha Green Tea Energy Balls
These energy balls pack a lot of nutrients in each bite:
- Matcha powder offers antioxidants, known to help combat oxidative stress, and a gentle amount of caffeine, which can enhance focus and energy without the jitters.
- Cashews add healthy fats, protein, and magnesium, supporting muscle and nerve function.
- Dates provide natural sugars and fiber, which help keep you feeling full and satisfied while adding a rich caramel-like sweetness.
- Shredded coconut adds a touch of healthy fats and fiber for sustained energy, along with a tropical flavor that complements the matcha.
FAQ
Can I make these energy balls nut-free?
Yes! You can replace the cashews with seeds, like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, for a nut-free option. This will change the flavor slightly but will keep them just as delicious.
How much caffeine is in each ball?
The caffeine content depends on the type of matcha powder you use. Generally, each ball contains a small amount of caffeine — around a third of what you’d find in a cup of green tea.
Can kids eat these energy balls?
Yes! However, if you’re making these for young children, consider reducing the matcha or using a caffeine-free substitute like spirulina or wheatgrass powder.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per ball)
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
With a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, these Matcha Green Tea Energy Balls are a delicious, nutritious way to keep your energy up. Whether you’re a matcha lover or new to its unique flavor, these snacks are sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.
