Fig and Cherry Paleo Bites

Fig and Cherry Paleo Bites

Serves: 24 mini balls

Ingredients

• 14 dried kalamata figs
• 1 c. dried cherries (or cranberries)
• 1 c. chopped hazelnuts (or walnuts)
• ⅓ c. dark chocolate chips*
• ½ tsp. cinnamon
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 1 tbsp. maple syrup + more to taste
• 1 c. unsweetened coconut flakes or shreds

* Try Enjoy Life brand chocolate chips (gluten, dairy, soy & nut free)

Instructions

1. Before you begin, line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Add the coconut flakes to a large bowl for rolling. Note: if using large coconut flakes (instead of shreds), pulse them 1-2 times in a food processor for smaller pieces. They will be easier to roll this way.
2. In a large food processor, add the cherries and hazelnuts. Pulse 2 or 3 times until roughly chopped. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
3. Now add the figs, cinnamon, vanilla and maple syrup to the food processor. Run the machine until the figs form a sticky paste. If your mixture is not quite sticky enough, add a teaspoon of water or juice to bring everything together.
4. Add back the cherries, hazelnuts, and chocolate chips and pulse 2 or 3 times to combine the mixture. Taste and add more maple syrup if necessary. Remove the blade and get ready to start rolling.
5. Using a small cookie scoop (or 1 tbsp. measuring spoon) form the mixture into balls and transfer right into the bowl of coconut flakes. Roll them around to coat and place onto your lined cookie sheet. Repeat until you have used up all of the mixture.
6. Enjoy right away or refrigerate until ready to use.

Source: theclevercarrot