Energy balls are a delicious and nutritious snack perfect for a quick energy boost before a workout or to combat afternoon slumps. This simple recipe combines oats and chocolate chips with a blend of flavours and textures, offering a satisfying treat that’s both healthy and indulgent. Rich in fibre, protein, and healthy fats, these energy balls are an excellent addition to any snack repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (or any nut or seed butter of choice)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)
- 1/2 cup ground flaxseed
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (dark chocolate for less sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Optional additions: chia seeds, hemp seeds, or any nuts of your choice for extra crunch and nutrition
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground flaxseed, and mini chocolate chips. Add a pinch of salt for flavor balance. If you’re including any optional ingredients like chia seeds or nuts, mix them in at this stage.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. The mixture should be sticky and hold together when pressed.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling makes the mixture easier to handle and shape.
- Roll into Balls: Once chilled, use a spoon or cookie scoop to take portions of the mixture and roll them into balls using your hands. Aim for balls about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture sticks to your hands, wetting them slightly can help.
- Set: Place the rolled balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once all the balls are rolled, refrigerate them for another hour to set, ensuring they hold their shape.
- Store: Transfer the energy balls to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or frozen for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy these energy balls as a pre-workout snack, a mid-day energy boost, or a healthy dessert alternative. They’re perfect for on-the-go snacking and can easily be packed for work, school, or outdoor adventures.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oats: A great source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, oats provide sustained energy release.
- Flaxseed: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, flaxseed supports heart health and digestion.
- Peanut Butter: Offers protein and healthy fats, contributing to satiety and muscle repair.
Energy balls with oats and chocolate chips are a versatile, nutritious snack that balances health with a touch of sweetness. Easy to make and customizable with your favourite ingredients, they’re sure to become a staple in your snacking routine.
Whip up a batch of these energy balls and see how quickly they become your go-to snack. Feel free to share your custom variations or favourite add-ins in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family looking for healthy snack ideas!
