CRANBERRY ALMOND ENERGY BALLS

These energy balls are the perfect make-ahead snack. Filled with cranberries, almonds, oats and dates, these energy balls come together in minutes. Maple syrup and tahini help bind everything together while adding a touch of sweetness and bitterness.

INGREDIENTS:

• 3⁄4 cup raw whole almonds

• 1⁄2 cup sweetened dried cranberries

• 1⁄4 cup pitted dates

• 3⁄4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (see Tip)

• 2 tablespoons tahini

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

DIRECTIONS:

Add almonds, cranberries and dates to a large food processor; process on High until the ingredients are broken into smaller pieces, 10 to 15 seconds. Add oats, tahini, lemon juice and maple syrup. Continue processing until a thick paste forms, 40 to 60 seconds. With your hands, roll the mixture into 25 balls, about 1 tablespoon per ball.

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks (or) freeze.

TIP:

People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should use oats that are labeled "gluten-free," as oats are often cross-contaminated with wheat and barley.