These decadent and spicy Chai Spiced Protein Balls make the perfect afternoon pick me up or anytime snack. They are gluten-free and can be made paleo and vegan.
Remove the pit and stem pieces from the dates and place in a bowl of hot water for 5-10 minutes until they have softened.
Drain the water from the dates and add to a blender or food processor along with all the other ingredients except the chia seeds. Blend until there are no chunks of dates. You will have to scrape the edges of the blender with a spatula several times.
Once blended, place the "dough" on a sheet or parchment paper or a plate and kneed chia seeds in to the dough mixture. Continue to press together until you are sure everything is well incorporated. Divide the dough into twelve pieces and begin rolling each piece between your palms in order to form balls.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Notes
Be sure to select fresh medjool dates (the kind with pits are usually freshest).