Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Toast pistachios (quick): Heat a dry frying pan over medium heat, add pistachios and toast for 1–2 minutes, shaking or stirring, until fragrant. Remove and cool.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl stir together nut butter, honey (or maple) and vanilla until smooth. If your nut butter is very stiff, warm it slightly first.
- Add dry ingredients: Add the oats, chia (if using), a pinch of salt and half the chopped pistachios to the bowl. Fold until a sticky, pliable dough forms. If it seems too dry, add a teaspoon of water or extra nut butter; if too wet, add 1–2 tbsp oats.
- Stir in chocolate & remaining pistachios: Fold through the chopped dark chocolate (it will soften a little) and the rest of the pistachio pieces so there are visible green flecks.
- Shape: Using slightly damp hands (this helps stop sticking), roll tablespoonfuls of mixture into tight balls. Aim for 12–14 even bites. Place on the lined tray.
- Chill to firm: Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to set. If you like them firmer, chill 30 minutes.
- Finish (optional): For extra glamour, drizzle with melted dark chocolate and sprinkle a few crushed pistachios on top. Serve chilled.
Nutrition
Notes
Storage
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 10 days.
Freeze in a single layer for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag - they keep for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge or eat straight from the freezer if you like them extra firm.
Freeze in a single layer for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag - they keep for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge or eat straight from the freezer if you like them extra firm.
- Vegan: Use almond or peanut butter + maple syrup. Use dairy-free dark chocolate.
- Nut-free: Swap nut butter for sunflower-seed butter and pistachios for roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas).
- Protein boost: Add 1–2 tbsp whey or plant protein powder; may need a splash more liquid.
- Middle-Eastern twist: Add ½ tsp ground cardamom and a few dried rose petals for garnish.
- Roll them: Press the balls into extra crushed pistachios, cocoa powder, or desiccated coconut for varied finishes.