This bite-sized snack combines the natural sweetness of blueberries and dates with the richness of nuts and a hint of vanilla for a quick energy boost or guilt-free dessert.
These blueberry bliss balls are perfect to enjoy in the summer months when blueberries are ripe and in season, but with a small adjustment, you can enjoy them with frozen blueberries, too.
They have great texture and flavour, and are made using wholesome ingredients, a perfect snack for the whole family.
Inspired by my strawberry energy bites, using unrefined ingredients to deliver a naturally sweet treat bursting with blueberry flavour.
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Ingredients + Substitutions
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious vegan blueberry bliss balls.
- Blueberries: Use fresh blueberries for best results, but frozen blueberries also work. Thaw them first, and adjust for the excess moisture by adding a few extra tablespoons of oats, almond flour, or coconut flour. You may also use raspberries or blackberries if preferred.
- Cashews: Use raw cashews with no added oil or salt. You may also use blanched almonds or sunflower seeds.
- Oats: Choose certified gluten-free oats if needed. (I get mine in a big bag from Costco.) Or use any rolled oats.
- Dates: Use pitted dates or Medjool dates and remove their pits.
- Vanilla: Choose pure vanilla extract, not artificially flavoured.
- Salt: Just a pinch for flavour, but you may omit it if needed.
Instructions
(This is a summary with step by step photos, full recipe measurements and instructions are in the recipe card below.)
Add all the ingredients to your food processor.
Blend until completely combined.
Use a small cookie scoop to portion your berry bliss balls and roll them.
Optional: Roll some or all of the balls in coconut for added flavour.
Variations
Mix things up with a different nut or flavour each time.
Try blanched almonds, walnuts, pecans, or pistachios.
To increase the protein you may sub ¼ cup of the oats with almond flour.
Or, try any of these add-ons:
- 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for chocolate blueberry balls.
- 2-3 tablespoons of white chia seeds or flaxseeds for added protein.
- 1-2 tablespoons of coconut sugar for extra sweetness.
- 2-3 tablespoons of shredded coconut.
Equipment
I use this Cusinart food processor to make these energy balls.
You MAY use a blender if you don't have a food processor. However, removing the mixture from a food processor is easier if you have the option.
Expert Tips
- If your dates are very dry, soak them in hot water for 10-15 minutes, and then drain them before adding them to your food processor. This will help soften them and make them easier to process.
- Don't overprocess the mixture. These taste best with a little texture.
- The batter will be sticky so use damp hands to roll the mixture into balls to prevent it from sticking to your hands.
- The rolled balls will be soft, so refrigerate them for at least 1 hour before enjoying them to help them harden and set.
More delicious bliss ball recipes
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Buon appetito
Rosa
📖 Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup blueberries
- ½ cup dates
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 pinch sea salt
Optional
- desiccated coconut for rolling
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Then, add everything except the optional coconut to your food processor and blend until combined. The mixture will be sticky.
- Use a small cookie scoop to portion and roll the mixture into balls, placing them on your parchment-lined tray.
- Optional: Place some coconut in a shallow dish, and roll as many of the balls in it as you'd like.
- Refrigerate the energy balls for 1 hour (or longer) to firm them up before enjoying.
Notes
- If your dates are very dry, soak them in hot water for 10-15 minutes, and then drain them before adding them to your food processor. This will help soften them and make them easier to process.
- Don't overprocess the mixture. These taste best with a little texture.
- The batter will be sticky so use damp hands to roll the mixture into balls to prevent it from sticking to your hands.
- The rolled balls will be soft, so refrigerate them for at least 1 hour before enjoying them to help them harden and set.
Boniface says
I am from Rwanda in east Africa
Boniface says
Thank you for sharing this wonderful recipe
Rosa says
My pleasure, so happy you enjoyed it! 🙂