Sweet & Healthy Coconut Balls

This is a healthier alternative to macaroons as it does not use any simple sugar.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups of dried, unsweetened coconut flakes
• 3/4 cups of chopped fresh dates
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

Preparation:

1. If the dates are dry, soak in a small bowl of water for a few minutes to moisten. Drain the dates before using.
2. Otherwise, fresh dates work great as is.
3. Remove the pit and chop into small pieces.
4. Place 2 cups of the coconut flakes, vanilla and a pinch of sea salt into a food processor and blend briefly to combine the ingredients.
5. Add the chopped dates and blend until the ingredients begin to stick together.
6. Place 1 heaping tsp at a time into the palm of your hand and roll into a ball. If the mixture does not stick together easily, add a bit of water or some additional dates.
7. Roll the balls into the remaining coconut to coat.

Servings:

24 to 36 coconut balls