These soft, naturally sweet no-bake dessert balls are the perfect better-for-you treat for toddlers. Made with wholesome ingredients like walnuts, medjool dates, chia seeds, and cocoa powder, they come together in minutes — no oven required. Keep a batch in the fridge for easy snacks all week long.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup walnuts
- 10 pitted Medjool dates
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk of choice
Optional: Extra shredded coconut topping
How to make:
- Blend the base: Add walnuts to a food processor and pulse until finely ground.
- Add remaining ingredients: Add the Medjool dates, chia seeds, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and milk. Blend until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough. Tip: If the mixture feels too dry, add 1–2 teaspoons of milk at a time until it holds when pressed.
- Roll into balls. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into small balls with your hands.
- Optional coating: addiitonal shredded coconut for extra texture.
- Chill: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5–7 days. These also freeze beautifully for longer storage. Simply thaw slightly before serving.
Toddler Tips:
- For younger toddlers, flatten slightly instead of rolling into large balls to reduce choking risk.
- Always supervise while eating.
- You can swap walnuts for cashews if preferred, keeping in mind any allergy considerations.
Chocolatey, naturally sweet, and snack you’ll feel good about serving? Win-win.
Always consult your pediatrician before introducing new foods to babies and toddlers.
