Step 1

To a food processor add pitted dates, cashews, coconut, sea salt, cardamom, and orange zest. Note: If you don’t have a food processor you can try using a blender, but dates can be tough for blenders due to their sticky nature, so use a low speed if possible and pulse rather than blending.

Step 2

Pulse until the mixture is broken down and crumbly — we like to stop before it becomes completely dough-like so that the bites maintain some texture. It should stick together when pressed between two fingers; if still dry and crumbly, continue processing until it is sticky enough to form into a ball. Taste and adjust as needed, adding more cardamom, orange zest, or salt to taste.

Step 3

If using the coconut coating, prepare that at this time. In a small bowl, combine the orange zest, desiccated coconut, and coconut sugar. Now it’s time to roll the balls!

Step 4

Scoop out 1-Tbsp amounts and roll into balls. As the original recipe is written, ~16 balls. If using the coating, roll the balls in the coating until generously covered.

Step 5

Enjoy immediately or store leftovers covered in the refrigerator up to 1 week, or in the freezer up to 1 month. We enjoy these right out of the fridge or after sitting at room temperature for 5-10 minutes.