Were you big into extracurriculars in high school? Music, sports, leadership, etc.? I mostly definitely was. Choir and theatre were my LIFE and made up 50% (or more) of my classes, as well as performance gigs, concerts, rehearsals, shows, and travel. I happily ate, breathed, and lived this life for 4 short, wonderful years. During that time, quick snacks were key and portability was essential. Gosh, sound familiar? Adulthood may look slightly different but the need for healthy on-the-go snacks is still important today. Luckily, these Strawberry Coconut Cashew Bombs are here to boldly take that place.
Chewy, balanced, and a fun pop of berry flavor, these portable 'bombs' are the perfect quick breakfast, snack, or pre/post workout fuel. We like to have these on hand while prepping dinner or traveling to keep us from diving into heavier fare. You can also pop them into yogurt or over oats and can even freeze them for the future. We don't want to call these "perfect" bite-sized snack, but they are pretty darn close. 😉
If you caught our recipe for Copycat Protein Bars, you'll notice the recipe uses the same standard base. What's nice about using this platform is that you can use it to get started and then customize with your favorite ingredients to make it all your own. Here's what you'll need:
2 parts nuts/seeds (healthy fat, protein):
Cashews, almonds, walnuts, pistachios, peanuts, sunflower seeds, pepitas, etc.
+ 1 part dried fruit (carbs, binder)
Dates, prunes, cherries, etc.
(Nut butter can be substituted here partially or completely for a higher fat/protein end result. If using as pre/post workout fuel we recommend keeping as fruit)
+ 1 part add-ins (your choice)
Chia/hemp/flaxseeds, shredded coconut, freeze-driedfruit, chocolate chips, extracts, etc.
This recipe takes less than 10 total minutes to throw together but we've broken everything down into pictures to make it foolproof. Let's get started!
Into your food processor add cashews,
almonds (we had sliced on hand but you can use whole or slivered as well),
coconut flour*, hempseeds, and salt,
and dates.
Blend until mixture is well mixed and even in size:
Add water and pulse until mixture begins to stick and get slightly 'clumpy'. Pour into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Next, prepare your add-in. We loved the bright and slightly tart flavor of freeze-dried strawberries. We recommend choosing add-ins with low or no added sugar like freeze-dried fruit or unsweetened coconut flakes for a pop of flavor, or chia/hemp seeds for crunch.
Using a knife or your hands, gently break the strawberries into smaller pieces.
Add strawberries to nut mixture.
Roll mixture into even, 1 ½" rounds.
Place in the fridge to set. Enjoy!
Nutrition Notes: Nuts like cashews and almond are rich in MUFAs (monounsaturated fats) and some PUFAs (polyunsaturated fats) which, when consumed in place of saturated and trans fats, may contribute to improved cholesterol levels and overall heart health. The fat and fiber in nuts may assist with blood sugar balance and provide meal satiety.
Ingredients
1 cup raw cashews
1 cup raw almonds
10-12 pitted dates (approx. 1 cup)
2-3 tbsp water
⅛ tsp salt
3 tbsp coconut flour
2 tbsp hemp hearts
1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, lightly chopped
*Coconut flour is not required for this recipe to work but we found it gave the mixture a light coconut flavor and smoother texture. You can substitute with shredded coconut, almond meal, egg white powder, 2 tbsp nut butter, or even omit altogether!
Directions
Add cashews, almonds, coconut flour, dates, and salt to a food processor. Blend on low until all pieces are well mixed and even in size. If you prefer a smoother texture, continue to pulse until mixture is completely broken down and smooth (this will take several minutes but it will get there!). One tablespoon at a time, add water and pulse until mixture begins to clump and become slightly sticky. Note: mixture should feel sticky enough to smoosh together to form into shape but not oversaturated or soggy. We recommend no more than 3 tbsp total.
Pour mixture into a large mixing bowl. Using a knife (or your hands), gently break freeze-dried strawberries into smaller pieces. Add strawberries to nut mixture and mix until well incorporated. Form mixture into even 1 ½" rounds and chill for 30 minutes in the fridge to 'set'. Store in the fridge up to 1 week or freeze for the future.
Pro-Tip: For a stronger strawberry flavor and smoother consistency, add strawberries to your food processor and blend directly with the rest of the nut mixture. Kids will love them too as they will turn pink!
Nutrition Facts (makes approx. 15 'bombs')
Calories - 122 Fat - 8g Carbohydrates - 10g Protein - 4g Fiber - 3g
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