– vegan – gluten free – grain free – oil free – raw –
One mocha brownie energy bites is a great way to curb your sweet tooth throughout the day without feeling guilty. I like to keep some in my fridge at all times in case I am running late in the morning or need a midday pick-me-up. If you’d like to add some more texture to these balls, try throwing in some unsweetened coconut flakes or mini chocolate chips.
These mocha brownie energy balls are made with:
- Natural Peanut butter: a great way to sweeten your recipe and get some added protein, healthy fats and fiber. However, peanut butter is also high in calories, so it is best to adhere to the recommended serving size if trying to lose weight. Be sure to choose a peanut butter brand that is least processed to prevent added ingredients liked sugar and trans fat. Look for peanut butter that contains only peanuts and maybe salt.
- Pure maple syrup: although high in sugar, is loaded with 24 antioxidants that help protect against free radical damage. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties that help to protect against chronic diseases, brain inflammation, intestinal inflammation, and nerve inflammation. therefore, pure maple syrup is a great natural sweetener when used in moderation. Fake maple syrup is made with high fructose corn syrup and provides zero health benefits.
- Almond flour: a healthy, gluten-free alternative to grain-based flours. It is void of refined carbs and lower calories. Therefore, it is also a great alternative for those trying to lose weight. In this recipe, the flour makes a great base to keep everything together.
- Cacao Powder: a great way to get all the flavor of chocolate without all the sugar that comes along with it. Note that there is a difference between cacao and cocoa powder. It is important to choose a high quality cacao powder, which is richer in magnesium, iron, potassium and calcium. Cocoa powder, although cheaper, typically contains unnecessary fillers and less minerals and antioxidants.
- Espresso: actually has hidden benefits when used in moderation. As most of us know, the caffeine in coffee can give us an energy boost, which makes these balls great for a breakfast-on-the-go or a midday snack. The combination of cacao powder and espresso gives a rich, decadent chocolate flavor in this recipe. Coffee is also loaded with antioxidants that protect against free radical damage and the prevention of heart disease and cancer. However, coffee is still mildly acidic to the body, so best to not over-do it.
- Dairy-free dark chocolate chips (optional): although normally brought up with negative connotations, chocolate (particularly dark chocolate) in moderation has many health benefits, as it is loaded with minerals. Just 2 ounces (1/3 cup) provides 100% of your daily copper intake, 37% of your iron, 42% of your magnesium, 61% of your manganese, 25% of your phosphorus, 23% of your zinc and 16% of your potassium. Not many other foods can boast this many minerals! I recommend buying high quality, organic dark chocolate that is free from vegetable oils and artificial colors & flavors that disturb the digestive system. Furthermore, look for chocolate that is made with cacao rather than cocoa, since cacao is richer in magnesium, iron, potassium and calcium. For this recipe, I used dark chocolate chips made with 72% cacao. Anything above 70% cacao will provide you with the healthful benefits in chocolate. Remember to check the serving size of your chocolate, as very little is needed to get its benefits and over-consuming is not good for health.
[mpprecipe-recipe:5]
