Spiced Nut and Dried Fruit Energy Bites

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Spread 1/4 cup of almonds and 1/4 cup of walnuts on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes until fragrant, stirring once halfway through. Allow to cool completely.

Place the toasted nuts in a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped, about 10-15 pulses.

Remove the pits from 3 Medjool dates if not already pitted, and roughly chop them. Add the dates, 2 tablespoons dried apricots, and 2 tablespoons dried cranberries to the food processor.

Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom, 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon orange zest, 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal, 1 teaspoon chia seeds, 1 teaspoon honey, and a pinch of sea salt to the food processor.

Pulse the mixture until it begins to come together and forms a sticky dough that holds together when pressed between your fingers, about 1-2 minutes of processing. Avoid over-processing into a paste.

Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up slightly.

With slightly damp hands (to prevent sticking), portion the mixture into 4 equal parts and roll into balls about 1-inch in diameter.

Place the energy bites in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.