Imagine a dessert that's not just a treat, but a symphony of rich chocolate, nutty hazelnuts, and wholesome ingredients that'll make your taste buds dance with joy! These Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Balls are the ultimate no-bake sensation that combines decadence with nutrition, proving that healthy snacks can be mind-blowingly delicious. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a chocolate lover, or someone looking for a quick energy boost, these bite-sized miracles are about to become your new favorite obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Global
Serves: 12 balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Toast the hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and their skins start to crack. Transfer to a clean kitchen towel and rub vigorously to remove most of the loose skins.
- Place the toasted hazelnuts in a food processor and pulse until they are finely chopped but not turned into butter. The texture should be slightly coarse and crumbly.
- Add rolled oats, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt to the food processor. Pulse to combine the dry ingredients with the ground hazelnuts.
- Melt the dark chocolate chips using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth and fully melted.
- Pour honey or maple syrup into the food processor with the dry ingredients. Add the melted chocolate and pulse until the mixture comes together and forms a cohesive, slightly sticky dough.
- Using clean hands, roll the mixture into 12 uniform balls, applying gentle pressure to compact the ingredients and ensure they hold together.
- Optional: Roll the balls in additional cocoa powder, finely chopped hazelnuts, or shredded coconut for extra texture and visual appeal.
- Refrigerate the balls for 30 minutes to firm up and allow the flavors to meld together. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips
- Toasting hazelnuts is crucial - it enhances their flavor and helps remove bitter skins. Be patient and stir frequently to prevent burning.
- For a smoother texture, ensure your chocolate is completely melted and mixed thoroughly with other ingredients.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more honey or maple syrup. If too wet, sprinkle in extra oats or cocoa powder.
- Use clean, slightly damp hands when rolling balls to prevent sticking and achieve uniform size.
- Get creative with coatings! Try crushed pistachios, shredded coconut, or even a light dusting of sea salt for extra flavor complexity.
- These balls are perfect for meal prep - they'll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them an ideal grab-and-go snack.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
