Almond Coconut Laddu

These almond laddus are a delicious, nutritious snack, naturally sweetened with dates and packed with healthy fats and fiber from almonds, coconut, and sunflower seeds. Perfect for an energy boost or a guilt-free treat!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups raw almonds
  • 20-22 Medjool dates, pitted
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes (shredded or desiccated)
  • 2 tbsp sunflower seeds (optional: lightly toasted for extra flavor)
  • A pinch of ground cardamom (optional)
  • A small pinch of sea salt (to balance sweetness)

Directions:

  1. Toast the Nuts & Seeds (Optional):

    • Toast the almonds (optional) by placing them in a dry skillet over low heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let them cool completely.
    • Toast the sunflower seeds in the same way, if using. Toasting adds a nutty depth of flavor but can be skipped if you're short on time.

  2. Blend the Dates and Coconut:

    • In a food processor, combine the pitted Medjool dates and unsweetened coconut flakes.
    • Pulse until the mixture becomes a sticky, smooth paste (this should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute). This step creates the base of your laddu mixture.

  3. Add the Almonds, Seeds, and Spices:

    • Add the chopped almonds, sunflower seeds, a pinch of ground cardamom (optional), and a pinch of sea salt to the food processor.
    • Pulse the mixture in short bursts (2-3 seconds at a time) until the almonds are roughly chopped, but still have some texture. You want a slightly chunky mixture, not a smooth paste.

  4. Form the Laddus:

    • Once the mixture is well combined, take small portions and roll them into round balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
    • Optionally, you can roll the laddus in additional shredded coconut to coat them, adding more texture and flavor.

  5. Chill to Set:

    • Place the rolled laddus onto a parchment-lined tray or plate. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the laddus to firm up and hold their shape.

  6. Store:

    • After they’ve chilled and set, your laddus are ready to serve! Store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for longer storage (just let them thaw before serving).

Tips for Customization:

  • Nut Variations: You can swap the almonds for other nuts like cashews, walnuts, or pistachios for a different flavor.
  • Sweetness: If you like a sweeter laddu, add a little honey or maple syrup along with the dates. Adjust to taste.
  • Spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist.

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