Chocolate & Ashwagandha Protein Bites

One of my favorite daily indulgences is a piece of rich, organic dark chocolate paired with crunchy almonds. It's a combination that satisfies my sweet tooth, boosts my spirits, and keeps me on a healthy snack track. So, I began a quest to find the perfect way to incorporate chocolate with healthy organic herbal goodness, resulting in these irresistible no-bake ashwagandha chocolate bites. Imagine sinking your teeth into a treat with cookie dough's soft, chewy texture, the warm, aromatic kick of chai-inspired spices, and that beloved, intense dark chocolate flavor!

Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, is an excellent choice for those with a sweet tooth who still want to eat more healthily. It contains antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which are known to support health, and contains essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc. With its rich, intense flavor, dark chocolate can be a satisfying treat without the extra sweetness of milk chocolate. It also pairs wonderfully with various ingredients, especially those found in this energy bite recipe, making it a versatile addition to any snack.

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a legendary herb cherished in Ayurvedic medicine. It is known for its adaptogenic and rejuvenating properties, making it a popular addition to snacks like energy bars. Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar frequently includes it in her famous Zoom Ball recipe. The powdered root can be consumed in various ways: straight, encapsulated, or blended into drinks like smoothies. 

Paleo Ashwagandha Chocolate Chai Bites

Makes 14 to 18 bites (depending on size).

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup organic tahini
• 1/4 cup + 1 Tbsp. organic almond butter (or nut butter of your choice)
• 1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp. raw, local honey
• 1/4 cup fair trade, organic dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 Tbsp. organic ashwagandha powder
• 2 Tbsp. organic cacao powder (plus more as needed)
• 2 Tbsp. organic hemp seeds
• 1 tsp. organic cinnamon powder
• 1 tsp. organic ginger powder
• 1 tsp. organic cardamom powder
• 1 tsp. organic nutmeg powder
• 1/2 tsp. organic vanilla extract (optional)

Toppings:

• Organic hemp seeds
• Organic coconut flakes

Directions:

1. Add tahini, almond butter, and honey into a medium bowl and mix until smooth.
2. Add herb powders and mix until well combined.
3. Mix in vanilla extract and hemp seeds.
4. Mix in chopped chocolate.
5. Add more cacao powder, a little at a time, until dough is thick enough to hold shape.
6. Once the dough is thick enough and doesn’t stick to the sides of the bowl, roll into 1-inch balls.
7. Coat with coconut flakes or hemp seeds and enjoy!

What I love about this recipe is that I can taste it as I go and adjust as needed until I have the right flavor and texture. Once the dough is all rolled into yummy little chocolate bites, I keep them stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week.  

Looking for another Herb-inspired recipe?

Check Out This Adaptogenic Mushroom Risotto Recipe!

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