Easy, vegan-friendly fig and cacao energy bites

Nutrition is important when it comes to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Research has shown that eating a diet that helps to stabilize blood sugar and lower inflammation has been proven to improve PCOS symptoms, but it can be hard to learn how to nourish yourself. That’s why we love sharing recipes like this one!

If you’re looking for a yummy and satisfying snack for a road trip, hike, or really any occasion, give these fig and cacao energy bites created by one of our health coaches, Simona, a try! They’re packed with flavor and full of nutritious plant-based ingredients to fuel your body and keep your hormones happy. You can store these energy bites in the fridge to have easy-to-go snacks throughout the week! 

Keep reading for the full recipe…

What you need to make this recipe

First, let’s quickly review the ingredients you will need for this recipe. We’ll also offer alternative options, so you can cater this recipe to your personal taste.

• Dried figs: Figs are full of fiber and have a natural sweetness that pairs well with chocolate flavors. When blended in a food processor, it creates a molasses-like texture that you can mold into balls. Alternatively, you can use dates instead.
• Walnuts: Packed with healthy fats and antioxidants, walnuts (and nuts in general) are a great snack to add extra plant-based protein into your diet. You can swap out walnuts for your choice of nut.
• Cacao powder: For a yummy chocolate flavor, use unsweetened cacao powder! The flavonoids in cacao powder may help lower inflammation, which is a fantastic plus for people with PCOS. 
• Flax seeds: Seeds are another source of healthy fat, fiber, and protein to help promote satiety. You can also use hemp or chia seed instead.
• Vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt: These ingredients help add depth to the energy balls, but you can also switch out cinnamon for nutmeg, cardamom, or even ginger.

Other ways to make this recipe

Want to add some variety to these energy balls? Check out some ways you can change up the flavor by adding just one or two extra toppings.

• Drizzle energy balls with peanut or almond butter
• Roll in unsweetened coconut flakes 
• Roll in crushed nuts for extra crunch
• Dust with cacao powder 
• Add cacao nibs for more chocolate flavor

How to make this recipe 

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried figs
• 1 cup of walnuts
• 1/2 cup of cacao powder
• 1 tbsp flax seeds
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. For best results, soak the figs for 5-10 minutes in hot water.

2. While the figs are soaking, pulse the walnuts until they are finely ground in a food processor. Afterward, add in the cacao powder, vanilla extract, cinnamon, flax seeds, and salt.

3. Next, add the figs to your food processor. Pulse until the ingredients are combined and form a dough-like consistency.

4. Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Using your hands, roll the dough into balls. It helps to wet your hands with water before forming balls.

5. Refrigerate in an airtight container and enjoy!

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Want to learn more about nutrition and PCOS? Check out this blog article for more information on how you can manage symptoms through your diet!