1 1/2 cups pitted dates 1 tbsp plus 2 tsp cacao or cocoa powder 1/8 tsp salt optional small handful chocolate chips optional cocoa, shredded coconut, melted chocolate, etc.

Combine the first three ingredients (and chips if using) in a strong food processor or high-speed blender or Vitamix, and blend until completely smooth. Scoop into a bowl, and freeze until the sticky dough is firm enough to roll balls (a half hour or so). Once balls are rolled—either with your hands or a cookie scoop—you can roll in the optional fourth ingredient or just eat them plain. I stored leftovers in the freezer to keep them as firm as possible.