Embarking on a sugar-free journey doesn’t mean you have to give up on desserts. This recipe for vegan dessert balls is a testament to how you can enjoy sweet treats without refined sugar, making it perfect for vegans and anyone looking to reduce their sugar intake. Packed with natural ingredients and flavors, these dessert balls are not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Seeds: 25g
Sunflower Seeds: 25g
Walnuts: 50g
Cashew Nuts: 25g
Dates: 110g
Dried Apricots: 50g
Plums: 25g
Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon
Ginger: 1 teaspoon
Sesame Seeds: 20g
Dark Chocolate (sugar-free): 35g
Instructions
Prepare the Seeds and Nuts:
Lightly fry the pumpkin and sunflower seeds in a pan until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
Toast the walnuts until they release their aroma and become slightly browned. Let them cool, then chop finely.
Chop the cashew nuts finely.
Soak and Prepare the Fruits:
Soak the dates, dried apricots, and plums in water for 15 minutes to soften. Then, chop them into small pieces.
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped dates, apricots, plums, lemon zest, ginger, and sesame seeds.
Combine All Ingredients:
Grate or finely chop the sugar-free dark chocolate and add it to the fruit mixture along with the cooled seeds and nuts. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Form the Dessert Balls:
Grease your hands with a little oil to prevent sticking. Shape the mixture into small balls.
Chill:
Place the balls on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these dessert balls as a guilt-free treat at any time of the day. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the sugar crash.
Cooking Tips
Consistency: If the mixture is too dry, you can add a little water or more dates to help it stick together.
Storage: These dessert balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
Nutritional Information
These dessert balls are rich in nutrients from nuts and seeds, providing healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Dates and dried fruits offer natural sweetness along with vitamins and minerals, making these treats not only delicious but also beneficial for your health.
FAQs
Can I substitute other nuts or seeds? Yes, feel free to use your favorite nuts and seeds.
How long do these dessert balls last? They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate? For a sugar-free option, it’s best to stick with dark chocolate, but you can use milk chocolate if you prefer.
Are there any other flavor variations? Experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla for different flavors.
Can I freeze these dessert balls? Yes, they can be frozen for up to three months.
Enjoy making these Healthy Sugar-Free Vegan Dessert Balls, a simple yet delightful way to indulge in sweets without compromising your health goals.