Need a quick and healthy snack to fuel your family? These easy 5-Ingredient Energy Balls are a no-bake, nutrient-packed treat perfect for busy mornings, lunchboxes, or an on-the-go energy boost!
As a busy mom, I know how hard it can be to find snacks that are both healthy and easy to prepare. I created this recipe to simplify snack time and provide my family with something I could feel good about serving. With only five simple pantry staples, these energy balls are a lifesaver for those chaotic days when you need something quick and satisfying without sacrificing quality.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy: With just five simple ingredients, you can make these no-bake energy balls in under 10 minutes—perfect for a busy day.
Nourishing & Wholesome: Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, these energy balls provide lasting energy without the sugar crash.
Kid-Approved: Whether it’s for a school snack or a family-friendly treat, kids love the taste, and you’ll love how easy they are to make.
Customizable: You can easily switch up the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or to suit your dietary needs. Add nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips for extra flavor!
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and keep them on hand for snacks throughout the week—these energy balls store well in the fridge or freezer.
Ingredient Breakdown for 5-Ingredient Energy Balls
Rolled Oats: The base of this recipe, oats are a great source of fiber and complex carbohydrates, providing steady energy. They’re also rich in beta-glucan, a type of fiber that helps lower cholesterol and promote heart health.
Nut Butter (Peanut, Almond, or Cashew): Nut butters add healthy fats and protein, making these energy balls a satisfying and filling snack. They also contribute to the creamy texture and rich flavor of the balls.
Honey or Maple Syrup: For natural sweetness, honey or maple syrup is the perfect addition. Both are packed with antioxidants and are much healthier than refined sugar. They help bind the ingredients together while giving the energy balls a delicious, subtle sweetness.
Shredded Coconut: Unsweetened shredded coconut adds texture and a mild coconut flavor, plus healthy fats and fiber. It’s a great way to enhance the chewiness of the energy balls without adding any sugar.
Mini Chocolate Chips or Dried Fruit: This is where you can customize the recipe! Mini chocolate chips add a touch of indulgence, while dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, or apricots brings natural sweetness and additional nutrients like vitamins and antioxidants.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of rolled oats and 1/4 cup of shredded coconut. Stir to mix evenly.
- Add the Nut Butter and Sweetener: Add 1/2 cup of your favorite nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew) and 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup. Mix until everything is well combined and sticky.
- Incorporate the Extras: Fold in 1/3 cup of mini chocolate chips or dried fruit. Stir until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Roll into Balls: Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. If the mixture is too sticky, dampen your hands with a little water to make rolling easier.
- Chill: Place the rolled energy balls on a parchment-lined tray or plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once set, enjoy immediately, or store them for later!
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply place the balls in a freezer-safe bag or container and thaw in the fridge before serving.
Customization Ideas for Your 5-Ingredient Energy Balls
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor. If you like a bit of sweetness, a dash of vanilla extract or almond extract also works beautifully.
- Cocoa Powder: For a chocolatey twist, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Citrus Zest: Add some orange or lemon zest for a fresh, zesty flavor that pairs well with the coconut.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, you can! If you prefer to use a different sweetener, try maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey. Both are great plant-based options that will still help bind the ingredients together and add a touch of sweetness. Just keep in mind that the consistency might change slightly depending on the sweetness you choose.
How long do these energy balls last?
When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, these 5-Ingredient Energy Balls will last for up to 1 week. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the fridge for a few hours or enjoy straight from the freezer for a firmer texture.
What are some nut-free alternatives?
If you need to make these energy balls nut-free, you can swap the nut butter for sunflower seed butter or pumpkin seed butter. These alternatives offer similar texture and healthy fats, making them a great option for those with nut allergies.
For more easy and nutritious snack ideas, check out my other recipes, like Homemade Vanilla Wafers and One-Bowl Brownies. Your next healthier snack is just a click away!
If you enjoyed this recipe, I’d be so grateful if you could take a moment to leave a 5-star rating below! Be sure to tag me @simplychelseahome on Instagram so I can see your delicious results!
Happy Snacking 🙂
5-Ingredient Energy Balls
Ingredients
Method
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add oats, nut butter, honey, your choice of chocolate chips or dried fruit, and coconut. Stir until fully combined.
- Adjust Consistency: If the mixture feels too sticky, add the ground coconut until it’s easy to handle.
- Roll Into Balls: Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion the mixture, then roll it into balls with your hands.
- Chill: Place the energy balls on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Store & Serve: Transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- These energy balls can be enjoyed straight from the fridge or at room temperature.
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