Have you ever heard of Lara Bars? If so, good, you will think the name of this recipe, “Laura Balls” is funny. If you haven’t, then you will just think I’m weird!

If you haven’t heard of them, they are a vegan, gluten free energy bar made primarily from dates, cashews and other dried fruits & nuts. I was in the store the other day and saw them on sale for $1.39 each. Being the thrifty person that I am I went right home and made up my own creation…LAURA BALLS!

First of all, I made them in ball form because that is a much easier shape to create, store and package to take with you on the go.

These are definitely not a dessert ball so don’t get too excited! They are a high energy treat perfect for when you are out on the trails or when you need an afternoon snack.

I even took an action shot of them to show their intended use…

Makes 20 balls

Ingredients
3/4 cup dates, chopped and soaked (about 9 dates)
1/2 cup ground flax seed
1/2 cup cooked and cooled quinoa
1/4 cup cashews
1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter
1/4 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup chocolate chips
1 tablespoon agave nectar (optional)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

First, remove the pits from the dates, chop them up a few times and place them in a bowl of water to soak while you prepare the other ingredients.

In a food processor, add all the ingredients except for the chocolate chips. Now add the dates to the food processor as well (but not the water they were soaking in).

Pulse and scrape the sides until you get a smooth dough. Stir the chocolate chips in.

Form the dough into balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place baking sheet in the freezer to let them firm up.

Once firm, place them in a container of your choice for taking on the go.