#NOURISH: Cacao & Orange Bites

When you are hungry before class, but you don't want to eat a heavy meal that will sit in your stomach during a twist, this is your 'Intermission' Bite.

It's a go-to bridge snack to give you a hit of natural sugar for energy, and healthy fats for stamina - without weighing you down. The orange zest isn't just to be on-brand with the studio, it'll wake up your senses even before you unroll your yoga mat.

THE STATS

• Prep Time: 10 mins

• Cook Time: 0 mins

• Yields: 12 Bites

• Dietary: Plant-Based, Gluten-Free, Raw

THE CAST (Ingredients)

• 1 cup Medjool Dates (Pitted. These are the sticky binder).

• 1 cup Walnuts (Brain food. Great for focus).

• ½ cup Cacao Powder (The chocolate hit, but full of antioxidants).

• Zest of 1 Orange (The star of the show).

• Pinch of Sea Salt (To bring out the flavor).

• 1 tbsp Chia Seeds (Optional, for texture).

THE CHOREOGRAPHY (Instructions)

1. The Blitz: Throw the walnuts and cacao powder into a food processor. Pulse until they look like coarse breadcrumbs. Don't turn them into butter!

2. The Bind: Add the pitted dates, orange zest, and salt. Pulse again until the mixture sticks together when you pinch it. If it's too dry, add a teaspoon of water or orange juice.

3. The Rehearsal: Scoop out a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms into a tight ball. Repeat until you have 12 performers.

4. The Chill: Place the 11 you have left (I know you just ate one!) in the fridge for 20 minutes to firm up.
   

DIRECTOR'S NOTES (Tips & Swaps)

• Nut-Free Studio? Swap the walnuts for Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas) or Sunflower Seeds.

• Make it "Snow": Roll the finished balls in desiccated coconut for a texture contrast.

• Storage: Keep these in the freezer. They last forever and taste like chewy fudge when eaten cold.

Back to #Nourish Articles >