Raw Honey and Date Energy Bites

When active summer days call for a quick boost of energy, these no-bake energy bites are the kind of snack to have on hand. Rich, satisfying, and naturally sweet, they're just enough to keep you going without weighing you down.

Raw honey offers a unique advantage by providing both fast-acting and sustained energy from its naturally occurring glucose and fructose. Combined with wholesome ingredients, these energy bites help fuel your summer adventures with steady energy—without the sharp spike and crash you'd get from sugary or processed bars.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Medjool dates
• 1/2 cup macadamia nuts, roasted if preferred
  
• 1/2 cup almonds, roasted if preferred
• 1/4 cup oats, toasted
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut plus more for rolling
• 2 Tbsp Big Island Bees Late Harvest Macadamia Nut Blossom honey
• 1 Tbsp chia seeds
• 1 Tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt

Directions:

1. Toast the oats by spreading on a sheet pan and baking for 8-10 minutes at 350°F, stirring frequently. Soak dates in hot water during this time (at least 10 minutes). Do not discard liquid in case your mixture is too dry.
2. Pulse nuts in food processor until finely chopped. Add remaining ingredients, pulsing once or twice before adding dates and honey last. Pulse for several seconds until uniform - mixture should be coarse, moist and hold together. If too dry or crumbly add date liquid one spoonful at a time just until it clumps together.
3. Use a scoop to shape into 1.5 inch balls and roll in shredded coconut. Place in a parchment paper lined container, cover and place in fridge for an hour. When removed, they should have a moist, cookie-dough texture. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks or in the freezer for longer.