Energy Balls are my go-to snack when I need a quick, satisfying boost during the day. These no-bake treats are packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nut butter, honey, and mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit. They're easy to make, portable, and perfect for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how customizable these Energy Balls are. Whether I’m craving something chocolatey, fruity, or nutty, I can easily adapt the ingredients to suit my mood. They’re naturally sweetened, filling, and give me steady energy without a sugar crash. Plus, there's no baking involved, so they come together fast.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Old-fashioned rolled oats
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Nut butter (like peanut butter or almond butter)
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Honey or maple syrup
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Ground flaxseed or chia seeds
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Mini chocolate chips (optional)
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Vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
Directions
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I start by adding the oats, nut butter, honey, flaxseed, chocolate chips, vanilla, and salt to a mixing bowl.
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I stir everything together until it’s fully combined and holds together.
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I refrigerate the mixture for about 20–30 minutes to firm it up, which makes it easier to roll.
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I scoop out small portions and roll them into bite-sized balls using my hands.
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I keep them stored in the fridge or freezer for a quick snack whenever I need one.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20 energy balls, depending on the size I roll them. Prep time is around 10 minutes, plus 20–30 minutes of chill time.
Variations
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I like to add shredded coconut or chopped nuts for extra texture.
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When I want more protein, I stir in a scoop of protein powder.
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For a fruity twist, I mix in dried cranberries, chopped dates, or raisins.
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I sometimes use cocoa powder or cacao nibs to make a chocolate version.
Storage/Reheating
I store my energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, I freeze them and grab a few as needed—they thaw quickly at room temperature. There's no reheating required, which makes them perfect for on-the-go snacking.
FAQs
Are energy balls healthy?
Yes, I find them to be a great healthy snack made with whole ingredients. They’re rich in fiber, healthy fats, and natural sugars for sustained energy.
Can I make these nut-free?
Absolutely. I swap out the nut butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini to make them nut-free and allergy-friendly.
Do I have to chill the mixture before rolling?
I do recommend chilling—it firms up the mixture and makes the balls easier to shape. Skipping this step can make them too sticky.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, I’ve used quick oats when I’m in a pinch. They make the texture a bit softer but still work well.
How do I keep them from being too sticky or dry?
If the mixture is too sticky, I add a bit more oats or refrigerate longer. If it’s too dry, I mix in a little more nut butter or honey.
Conclusion
Energy Balls are one of my favorite snacks to keep on hand. They’re quick to make, endlessly customizable, and keep me full and focused throughout the day. Whether I need a post-workout bite or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, these little bites always do the trick.
Energy Balls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30–40 minutes (includes chill time)
- Yield: About 20 balls
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These no-bake Energy Balls are the perfect healthy snack—made with oats, nut butter, and naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup. Packed with wholesome ingredients and customizable mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit, they're ideal for quick energy, meal prep, or on-the-go snacking.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup nut butter (peanut butter or almond butter)
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed or chia seeds
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, nut butter, honey, flaxseed or chia seeds, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Stir until fully combined and the mixture begins to hold together.
- Chill the mixture in the fridge for 20–30 minutes to firm it up.
- Scoop and roll into bite-sized balls using your hands.
- Store energy balls in the fridge or freezer until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- For added flavor and texture, mix in shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or dried fruits like cranberries or dates.
- Boost protein by adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder.
- If the mixture is too sticky, add more oats or refrigerate longer; if too dry, add more nut butter or sweetener.
- Use sunflower seed butter or tahini to make the recipe nut-free.
