Adaptogen Reishi Chocolate Balls

This recipe for Adaptogen Reishi Chocolate Superfood Bliss Balls is a wonderfully satisfying way to combine the stress-relieving benefits of reishi mushroom with the rich, comforting taste of chocolate. They are perfect for those moments when you crave something indulgent but want to keep it healthy and natural. These bliss balls are packed with nutritious nuts and natural sweeteners, making them a great energy boost or a guilt-free snack.

I first made these during a busy week when I needed a healthful pick-me-up. Now they are a staple in my fridge for whenever stress hits or I want something chocolatey and wholesome.

Ingredients

• Walnuts: provide healthy fats and a nice crunch, choose fresh and unsalted for best flavor
• Cashews: add creaminess and a subtle sweetness, look for raw nuts to soak for better texture
• Deglet Noor dates: natural sweetener and binder, pick soft and moist dates to easily blend
• Raw cacao powder: delivers that deep chocolate taste, opt for unsweetened and organic if possible
• Reishi mushroom extract powder: the star adaptogen for stress relief, purchase from reputable sources to ensure purity
• Honey: natural sweetener that binds the mixture, you can substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option
• Filtered water: helps soak the nuts and dates for easier blending
• A pinch of sea salt: enhances the overall flavor profile and balances sweetness

Instructions

Saturate the Nuts and Dates:

Soak half of the walnuts and all the cashews along with the Deglet Noor dates in filtered water for at least 4 hours or overnight. This softens them for easier blending and improves digestibility. Drain well before the next step.

Blend the Base Ingredients:

In a food processor, combine the soaked nuts and dates with the dry walnuts, raw cacao powder, reishi mushroom extract powder, honey, and a pinch of sea salt. Pulse slowly at first then process continuously until the mixture is sticky and well combined but still has some texture.

Shape the Bliss Balls:

Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll into approximately 1 inch balls. If the mixture feels too dry, add a small splash of water and pulse again briefly. You want them firm but pliable enough to hold shape.

Chill to Set:

Place the bliss balls on a parchment lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to eat.

Serve or Store:

Enjoy immediately as a quick snack or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. These bliss balls also freeze well for longer storage.

I love the unique earthy bitterness that reishi adds balanced with sweet dates and rich chocolate. One afternoon making these with my kids turned into a fun lesson about herbal remedies and superfoods which made the snack taste even better.

Storage Tips

Store your bliss balls in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness and texture for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is your best bet. Just thaw a few minutes at room temperature before eating so they soften nicely without losing flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have walnuts, pecans or almonds can work well as substitutes and bring their own unique flavor. Maple syrup can replace honey for a vegan friendly alternative without compromising sweetness. Cacao powder can be swapped with carob powder if you prefer a milder chocolate flavor or want to avoid caffeine.

Serving Suggestions

These bliss balls are perfect paired with a hot cup of herbal tea or your favorite coffee as a natural energy boost. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit or a bowl of yogurt for an extra satisfying snack or breakfast addition. Wrap them individually for grab and go snacks anytime you need a quick pick me up.

Enjoy these bliss balls as a nourishing, stress supporting snack any time you need a mindful pick me up. They store and freeze well so you can always have one on hand.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What is the benefit of reishi mushroom in these balls?

Reishi mushroom supports the body's stress response and immune health, offering calming adaptogenic properties without sedation.

→ Why are nuts soaked before using in the balls?

Soaking nuts softens their texture and enhances digestibility, improving the overall mouthfeel of the balls.

→ Can these balls be made vegan?

Yes, by substituting honey with maple syrup, these balls can be easily adapted for a vegan diet.

→ What role do dates play in this preparation?

Dates act as a natural sweetener and binder, adding caramel-like flavor and chewiness to the balls.

→ Are raw cacao and reishi mushroom powder safe to consume daily?

Both are generally safe in moderate amounts, offering antioxidants and adaptogenic effects when included regularly.

→ How long does it take to prepare these balls?

Preparation takes approximately 40 minutes, including soaking and mixing ingredients for optimal texture.