These sweet energy balls draw flavor inspiration from the classic Italian dessert tiramisu.
Instant espresso powder adds bitterness, while dates provide sweetness to create balanced flavor.
A dusting of cocoa powder at the end mimics the dessert’s iconic look.

Photo: Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Food Stylist: Julia Levy, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle
And don’t skip the chilling, as it helps the mixture stay together.
Let stand until soft, about 10 minutes.
Place the drained dates in a food processor; pulse until coarsely chopped.
Add cashew butter, yogurt, espresso powder, vanilla and salt.
Add oats; pulse until fully combined and incorporated.
Transfer the mixture to a small bowl.
Cover and refrigerate for 10 minutes.
Spoon 14 teaspoon cream cheese in the center of the round.
Carefully pinch the date mixture around the cream cheese to seal; roll into a 1-inch ball.
Repeat the process with the remaining date mixture and cream cheese.
Refrigerate the balls until no longer sticky, about 30 minutes.
Dust the balls with cocoa powder and serve.
To make ahead:
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Daily Values (DVs) are the recommended amounts of nutrients to consume each day.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient.