Superfood Cookies - the raw sweet of the athlete

Superfood Cookies - The Raw Sweetness for Athletes

Who hasn’t ever felt the need for a sweet snack after an intense workout? Surely, we all crave a tasty reward after putting in the effort. Today's recipe, Superfood Cookies, is the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a healthy dessert, free from added sugars, yet packed with energy and nutrients. It’s a simple, quick recipe that’s ideal for a post-workout snack.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 15 balls

Ingredients

- 150 g dried dates (pitted)
- 100 g almonds
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 150 g shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 ripe banana

About the Ingredients

Dates are the star ingredient of this recipe, offering healing properties and natural sweetness. They are rich in fiber, which aids digestion, and essential minerals like potassium. Almonds are an excellent source of protein, vitamins A, B, and E, and minerals such as magnesium and iron. Coconut provides healthy fats, essential for cellular health and calcium absorption.

To add a touch of flavor, you can include the seeds from a vanilla pod or substitute some ingredients with dried fruits like prunes, apricots, or pineapple, and various nuts like hazelnuts, cashews, or peanuts.

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the Dates: Start by pitting the dates and cutting them into smaller pieces. This step is important for easier processing later on.

2. Grinding the Almonds: Use a food processor to grind the almonds. It’s best not to turn them into a fine powder but to leave them slightly coarser for a pleasant texture in the cookies.

3. Mashing the Banana: In a separate bowl, mash the banana with a fork until it becomes a smooth paste. It’s important for the banana to be ripe to provide sweetness and bind the ingredients together.

4. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the dates, ground almonds, mashed banana, honey, shredded coconut, and cocoa. Use a spatula or your hands to mix all the ingredients well. If the mixture is too soft, gradually add more coconut or ground almonds until you can form balls.

5. Cooling the Mixture: I recommend letting the mixture chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. This will help firm it up, making it easier to shape the balls.

6. Forming the Balls: Once the mixture has cooled, take a portion of it and roll it into balls the size of a ping-pong ball. If desired, you can roll them in coconut, cocoa, or ground almonds for a more appealing look.

7. Serving: Serve the balls as a healthy snack, perfect for a quick bite after sports or as an energizing dessert. You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

Nutritional Benefits

These Superfood Cookies are not only delicious but also extremely beneficial for your health. Rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, they provide the energy you need to support your daily activities. They are also an excellent choice for those looking to reduce refined sugar intake, having a low glycemic index due to the dates and banana.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I substitute dates with other dried fruits?
Yes, you can use prunes, apricots, or even dried pineapple. Choose fruits you enjoy that are easy to process.

2. Can I make these cookies vegan?
Absolutely! You can omit the honey or replace it with agave syrup or maple syrup.

3. How should I store these balls?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for about a week.

Variations and Suggestions

To diversify the recipe, you can add various seeds, such as chia or flax seeds, which will enrich the mixture with omega-3 fatty acids. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or ginger for an interesting flavor.

Pair these Superfood Cookies with a green smoothie or a plant-based drink for a healthy, energizing breakfast. These delicious balls are also perfect for a quick snack in your backpack when you're on the go!

In conclusion, Superfood Cookies are an ideal choice for those who want a healthy sweet treat, full of energy and nutrients. This simple and quick recipe can be adapted to your taste, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a delicious dessert without feeling guilty. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and let’s enjoy cooking!