TROPICAL ENERGY BALLS

​So I was wondering through the bulk section of my local grocery store the other day looking for inspiration.  I’ve been really into these energy balls lately, they’re great for a quick snack on the go, my kids love finding one in their lunch, and they are the perfect size when you need a little something between meals but don’t want to ruin your dinner! Don’t get me wrong, I love the fruit and nut bar options out there, but they can be spendy.   I saw a bin full of very processed looking apricot coconut sticks, and decided to recreate them using healthy ingredients!  They have a great tropical flavor without using pineapple, which unfortunately one of my kiddos is allergic to, but that would be a great addition as well, just substitute it for some of the apricots!
 
1 cup raw cashews
 
2/3 cup dried apricots
 
2/3 cup dates
 
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, divided
 
1-2 tbsp water
 
Set aside 1/4 cup of the unsweetened shredded coconut
Put all remaining ingredients into your food processor
Process on high speed until all ingredients are chopped small and combined
If ingredients do not stick together, add a tablespoon or two of water and process again until everything sticks and starts clumping together
Roll large spoonfuls of the mixture between your palms and form into one inch balls
In a shallow dish, roll balls in remaining shredded coconut until covered
Store in a container in the fridge for a few weeks or in the freezer for a quick snack anytime!
(Makes approximately 15 energy balls, depending on how large you make them!)