Something that hasn’t appeared in the kitchen for a while are date balls. There is usually a package of dates lying around but the thought of pulling out the blender has been a long shot. Not today! I am inspired by the many holiday recipe posts, especially CaylaCooks’ date balls post. These date balls can also be molded into a container and sliced into bar shapes like Larabars for on-the-go snacks. 
Coconut Matcha Date Balls
Makes: 16 balls
1 cup almonds
1/4 cup coconut flakes
1/2 tsp matcha powder
1 cup medjool dates (about 8 dates)
2-3 tsp coconut oil
Coating:
1/2 tsp matcha powder
1/3 cup coconut flakes
1. In a processor or blender, ground the almonds into a crumbled texture, not completely into a powder.
2. Add in the coconut flakes, matcha powder, dates and coconut oil. Blend until the mixture comes together.
3. Roll the mixture into 1 tablespoon size pieces. (you can dip you hands in some water before this step as it helps to use wet hands).
4. In another bowl, mix together the matcha powder and coconut flakes for coating. Roll each date ball until well coated.
The both the matcha and the spices in the date balls provide a subtle flavour. Neither are meant to be overpowering in the date balls but if you prefer a stronger flavour do not hesitate to add more.
Although there I only used a tiny amount of ground cloves, it does make a difference. I think the blend of multiple spices has a totally different feel in comparison to using only one.
Spiced Date Balls with Chocolate Drizzle
Makes 12 balls
1 cup almonds
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
a tiny pinch of ground cloves (less than 1/8 tsp)
1 cup dates ( about 8 dates)
2 tsp maple syrup
Chocolate Drizzle:
2 tbsp dark chocolate, melted
a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves for garish
1. In a processor or blender, ground the almonds into a crumbled texture, not completely into a powder.
2. Add in cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, dates and maple syrup. Blend until the mixture comes together.
3. Roll the mixture into 1 tablespoon size pieces. (you can dip you hands in some water before this step as it helps to use wet hands).
4. With a spoon, drizzle the chocolate over the date balls and sprinkle with extra spices. 
Merry Christmas!
so yummy!!!