From My Bowl

0 Soak the Dates: Add the pitted dates to a medium bowl and cover with boiling water (or, microwave for 2 minutes). Let the dates soak for 5 minutes, to soften. Drain and set aside.
1 Dry Ingredients: In the meantime add the oats, apple chips, walnuts, ground flax, spices, and salt to a food processor with an S-blade attachment. Pulse until a coarse flower forms, about 45 seconds.
2 Wet Ingredients: Add the soaked and drained dates to the food processor along with the maple syrup and vanilla extract.
3 Combine: Process until a thick dough forms, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the food processor as necessary. The dough should be only slightly sticky to the touch and stick together when pinched.
4 Form Balls: Use a cookie scoop or 1 tablespoon measuring spoon to divide the dough into balls. Take two of the 1-tablespoon balls and use your hands to roll them together to form one energy bite. Repeat with the remaining “dough” balls. Tip: lightly wet your hands with water to prevent the balls from sticking to you.
5 Serve & Store: Enjoy immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These energy bites can also be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months; if you are freezing them, I recommend letting the bites sit out at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before enjoying so they have time to soften.