When I think of Key Lime Pie Energy Balls, I’m right back in our kitchen watching my mom zest limes over the counter, that sharp citrus scent filling the whole room. When I was growing up, she loved quick stovetop sweets and chilled treats that set up in the fridge while we cleaned up together. My mom always said the zest is where the real flavor hides, and she was right. These bright, creamy bites come together fast, no oven needed, and they taste like sunshine in cookie form. Let me show you how I make them.
No-Bake Key Lime Pie Energy Balls
Equipment
- food processor
- Microplane or fine zester
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cookie scoop (1 tablespoon)
- Parchment Paper
- baking sheet
- Measuring tools
Ingredients
- 1 cup soft Medjool dates pitted
- ¾ cup raw cashews
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons fresh key lime juice
- 2 teaspoons key lime zest do not include white pith
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Extra shredded coconut for rolling optional
Instructions
- If your dates feel firm, soak them in warm water for 5–10 minutes, then drain completely.
- Add cashews to a food processor and pulse until they form fine crumbs.
- Add shredded coconut, lime zest, and salt. Pulse again to combine.
- Add dates, lime juice, and vanilla. Process until the mixture clumps together when pressed between your fingers.
- If mixture feels too sticky, add 1 tablespoon coconut. If too dry, add 1 teaspoon lime juice.
- Scoop into 1-tablespoon portions and roll into balls.
- Roll in extra coconut if desired.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm.
Notes
- Too crumbly? Add 1–2 soft dates.
- Flavor weak? Increase zest slightly.
- Bitter taste? Avoid zesting into the white pith.
Nutrition
CONCLUSION
Between you and me, these Key Lime Pie Energy Balls feel like the kind of chilled treat my mom would’ve tucked into the fridge for later, knowing I’d sneak one before dinner. That bright citrus and creamy center remind me a little of my smooth no-bake strawberry cheesecake bites when I want something fresh and fruity. And if you love coconut like I do, you might also enjoy the cozy texture of coconut cream no-bake cookies.