Chocolate Energy Balls without Peanut Butter

Pour the oats into the bowl of a food processor (multi-chopper) and quickly grind them to get a coarse flour-like texture.

Add the soft, pitted dates, sunflower seeds, ground flaxseeds, chia seeds, unsweetened cocoa powder, chocolate protein powder and liquid honey.

Blend all the ingredients at high speed for about 1 to 2 minutes until the dates are completely broken down and the mixture starts to come together into a uniform, sticky and thick mass.

If the mixture seems too dry or crumbly, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of warm water and blend again briefly. The mixture should be pliable enough to easily shape with your hands.

Refrigerate the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes to let it firm up slightly, which will make shaping the balls much easier.

Using a small spoon, scoop out a portion of the mixture and press it firmly between your palms, shaping it into a smooth ball about the size of a large walnut. Repeat the process until you've used up all the prepared mixture (you should get about 12 equal balls).

If desired, roll the shaped balls in extra unsweetened cocoa powder, chia seeds or finely ground oats for a nicer visual effect and a crunchy exterior.

Arrange the balls on a plate lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving, to let them fully firm up.