Made with dates, dried cranberries, protein powder, and orange zest, these tasty little snacks will help power you through your day!
Sometimes you just need a little boost. Whether it’s that three o’clock slump or an endless day of meetings and errands, I often need some extra energy to power through my obligations. That’s where these cranberry-orange energy bites really come to the rescue!
They taste like a treat—but I don’t get a crash afterward because they’re free of refined sugar. It’s the dates that give them sweetness, while the protein powder fuels my inner fierceness! I love how the sweet-tart cranberries and bright orange zest play off the chewy, caramelly dates. And I like to roll them in coconut flakes on top of the protein powder for added texture and flavor.
Plus, they come together in almost no time, then just chill in the fridge for a bit. It doesn’t get easier than that! I like to make a double batch on the weekend so I have plenty to reach for throughout the week. Sometimes I’ll have one as a post-workout prize; other times they’re my to-go breakfast with a coffee smoothie. They’re a simple, flavorful, and convenient way to keep my healthy goals on track!
Are Cranberry-Orange Energy Bites Healthy?
These bites are a convenient, nutrient-rich snack with natural sweetness, some protein, and healthy fats. Dates are high in fiber, potassium, magnesium, copper, manganese, iron, and vitamin B6 while also providing antioxidants and natural sweetness. Dried cranberries contribute vitamin C, potassium, iron, magnesium, and dietary fiber. Whey protein powder adds complete protein with all essential amino acids, while almonds supply vitamin E, B complex vitamins, healthy unsaturated fats, fiber, potassium, copper, and manganese. Overall, these energy bites make for a healthy snack if consumed in moderation as part of an otherwise well-balanced diet.
For vegan and gluten-free energy bites, make sure the protein powder you use is certified gluten-free and plant-based. Make a Paleo-friendly and Whole30-compliant version by replacing the whey protein with egg white or collagen protein and ensuring the cranberries are unsweetened and free of seed oils.
Finding The Perfect Date
I used Medjool dates for these cranberry-orange energy bites. I like them for a couple of reasons. First, they’re always easy to find at my local grocery store. Second, they have a moist, sticky texture and an exceptionally sweet, almost caramel-like flavor that works perfectly with this recipe. They help bind the ingredients together without the need for added sweeteners or liquids. The result I got was a batch of soft, chewy, naturally sweet energy bites with a rich, almost toffee-like undertone.
Your other choice is deglet noor dates, which are smaller, firmer, and less sweet than medjool dates. They have a subtler, nuttier flavor and a drier texture. If you use deglet noor dates, your energy bites may be a bit less sweet and slightly more crumbly, which could require adding a touch more coconut oil or a splash of water to achieve the right consistency for rolling. If you notice the dates are dry before blending, you can soak them briefly in hot water to soften them. The flavor will be milder and less caramel-like, allowing the cranberry and orange notes to stand out more prominently.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover cranberry-orange energy bites in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temp for 20 to 30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these cranberry-orange energy bites with a Vanilla Protein Shake or this Healthy Smoothie Recipe for an energizing snack. Make them part of your breakfast on the go with this Coffee Smoothie. They’d also make a light lunch paired with Sugar-Free Frozen Yogurt or Coconut Yogurt and this vibrant Fruit Salad Recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups dates roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup vanilla whey protein powder plus additional for rolling
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons slivered almonds
- 1 1/2 teaspoons orange zest or less, to taste
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil melted
Instructions
- Place the chopped dates and the dried cranberries in a food processor. Process until broken down and crumbly.
- Add the protein powder, almonds, and orange zest. Process until well combined.
- With the blender running, slowly stream in the melted coconut oil. Continue processing until the mixture comes together in a sticky ball. Depending on the strength of your food processor, this could take a few minutes.
- Pour some protein powder onto a shallow plate. Shape the date mixture into tablespoon-sized balls. Roll each ball in the protein powder, gently shaking to eliminate any excess.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up the bites. Let sit at room temp for a few minutes before enjoying.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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