These irresistible energy balls pack a powerful nutritional punch in just 5 minutes of prep time. With only 128 calories per serving and a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, they’re the ultimate grab-and-go snack for busy days.
Whether you need a pre-workout boost or an afternoon pick-me-up, these no-bake treats deliver sustained energy without any guilt. Plus, they’re naturally sweetened and loaded with potassium and essential vitamins to keep you feeling energized throughout the day.
Wholesome Energy Balls – Ingredients
- Oats (Two Types): 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats and 1 cup steel cut oats for perfect texture balance
- Coconut: 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut adds natural sweetness
- Crispy Rice: 1 cup crispy rice cereal for delightful crunch
- Nut Butter: 1 cup peanut butter (or alternative nut butter) as binding agent
- Flaxseed: 1 cup ground flaxseed for nutrition boost
- Sweet Elements: 2/3 cup chocolate chips and 3/4 cup honey for natural sweetness
- Flavor Enhancer: 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix: Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl until well incorporated
- Chill: Refrigerate mixture for minimum 1 hour to firm up
- Shape: Form into 1-2 inch balls (Add extra nut butter or honey if mixture is too crumbly)
- Customize: Feel free to add chopped almonds or raisins for variety
- Store: Keep in airtight container in fridge for up to 2 weeks
Mix & Match Add-ins
These energy balls are super flexible! Try mixing in some tasty extras to make them your own. Some yummy options include chopped dried cranberries, mini M&Ms, crushed pecans, or white chocolate chips.
Start with about 1/4 cup of your chosen add-ins and adjust to taste. Dark chocolate lovers can swap dark chocolate chips for the regular ones.
Texture Tips
Getting the perfect texture is easy! If your mixture feels too dry, just add a tiny bit more honey or nut butter, one teaspoon at a time. Want them extra crunchy? Toast your oats for 5-10 minutes before mixing. For smoother balls, pulse the oats in a food processor a few times before combining with other ingredients.
Storage & Snacking
These little treats are perfect for grab-and-go snacking! Pop them into small containers or zip-top bags for an easy desk drawer snack or lunchbox addition. They’ll stay fresh in your fridge for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months – just let them thaw in the fridge for about an hour before eating.
Serving Ideas
While these energy balls are amazing on their own, try them crumbled over yogurt for breakfast or packed alongside fresh fruit for a balanced snack. They’re great for post-workout fuel or an afternoon pick-me-up with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. Kids love them as an after-school treat!
Energy Balls
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup steel cut oats
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup crispy rice cereal like Rice Krispies or crushed rice chex
- 1 cup peanut butter or other nut butter
- 1 cup ground flaxseed
- 2/3 cup chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup honey
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before forming into 1-2 inch balls.
- If the mixture isn’t holding together well enough you can add a little more nut butter or honey to help it bind.
- Keep refrigerated for an easy snack on the go.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, depending on freshness of your ingredients.
