Savoring the Longer Days + Nut Butter Energy Balls Recipe

There’s something magical about this time of year—the days are stretching just a little longer, and the sun is shining a bit brighter. That extra bit of daylight feels like an invitation to slow down, step outside, and soak up nature’s renewal. Even if the temperature still carries a hint of winter’s chill, I can feel the promise of spring in the air.

Lately, I’ve been making the most of these longer afternoons with outdoor walks, gentle movement, and a focus on nourishing, energizing snacks. I love keeping something on hand that’s wholesome, satisfying, and naturally sweet, so I’m excited to share my latest go-to: Nut Butter Energy Balls.

These little bites are the perfect balance of chewy, nutty, and naturally sweet—made with simple, real-food ingredients to fuel your day without the processed junk. They’re great for a midday pick-me-up, a post-workout snack, or even a little something to pair with your afternoon tea.

Nut Butter Energy Balls Recipe 🌿💚

Makes 15 balls

Ingredients:

✔️ 16 juicy dried dates (softened if needed)
✔️ ½ cup dried cherries
✔️ 1 cup almonds (blanched + toasted)
✔️ ¼-½ cup unsalted walnuts
✔️ ½-1 TBSP juice (cranberry, cherry, or simply use water)
✔️ Pinch of salt
✔️ ¼ cup cacao nibs or finely chopped dark chocolate
✔️ 1-2 TBSP slightly warm nut butter for drizzling (almond, cashew, or walnut butter work beautifully!)

Instructions:

1️⃣ Blend the nuts – In a food processor, pulse the almonds and walnuts until they break down into a coarse meal. Be careful not to over-blend—you want some texture.

2️⃣ Add the fruit – Toss in the dried dates and cherries, pulsing until everything is well combined and sticky.

3️⃣ Enhance the texture – Add a pinch of salt and a small splash of juice or water to help bring the mixture together. Blend until it forms a dough-like consistency.

4️⃣ Mix in the cacao nibs – Transfer the mixture to a bowl and fold in the chopped dark chocolate or cacao nibs for a touch of natural sweetness and crunch.

5️⃣ Roll into bites – Using your hands, roll the mixture into 15 small energy balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray.

6️⃣ Drizzle with nut butter – Slightly warm your favorite nut butter and drizzle it over the energy balls for an extra layer of goodness.

7️⃣ Chill & enjoy – Let them set in the fridge for about 30 minutes before enjoying.

Why You’ll Love These Energy Balls

💚 No refined sugar – Naturally sweetened with dates and dried cherries.
💚 Rich in healthy fats – Almonds, walnuts, and nut butter provide lasting energy.
💚 Nutrient-dense – Cacao nibs add antioxidants, magnesium, and a delicious crunch.
💚 Versatile & customizable – Swap out nuts, add cinnamon, or roll in shredded coconut for a twist.

I love grabbing one (or two) of these with my afternoon tea while watching the sun linger just a little longer in the sky. Lately, as I soak in the golden light, I find myself dreaming about what this year’s garden will look like—what herbs I’ll plant, which flowers will bloom first, and how I can create a space that feels like a peaceful retreat. These small, simple joys remind me to nourish not just my body, but also my mind and spirit.

What small joys are you savoring right now? Let me know in the comments!

Until next time, stay well and keep thriving.

🌿 Diana