Looking for the ultimate grab-and-go snack to power your busiest days? Whether you’re hitting the trails, heading to the gym, or just need a healthy pick-me-up, these Almond Butter Energy Balls are your new best friend. They’re packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, seeds, and dried fruit, delivering a delicious burst of energy in one perfectly portable bite. No baking required, just mix, roll, and enjoy a snack that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
Ingredients
• 1 cup / 250 mL rolled oats
• 1 cup / 250 mL almond or peanut butter
• 1/2 cup / 125 mL pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 cup / 125 mL currants
• 1/2 cup / 125 mL dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup / 125 mL non-dairy chocolate chips
• 1/2 tsp / 2 mL grated or minced lemon peel
• 1 tbsp / 15 mL freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp / 5 mL cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp / 2 mL ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp / 2 mL vanilla extract
• 1 to 2 tbsp / 15 to 30 mL water
Instructions
1. Place the rolled oats in a food processor and pulse for about 20 seconds, or until they have a flour-like consistency.
2. Transfer the ground oats to a medium bowl. Add the almond butter, pumpkin seeds, currants, cranberries, chocolate chips, lemon peel, lemon juice, cinnamon, cardamom, and vanilla.
3. Use a fork or a sturdy spatula to mix until all the are thoroughly combined. The mixture will be thick and crumbly.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of water and mix again. If the mixture is still too dry to hold its shape when squeezed, add the second tablespoon of water.
5. Scoop out portions of about 2 tablespoons and roll them between your hands to form tight balls.
6. Store the energy balls in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for longer storage.
Nutritional Information
• Per ball (makes 30)
• Calories: 113
• Protein: 3 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 11 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Dietary Fibre: 2 g
Pro Tips
• If the mixture is too sticky to roll, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle.
• Feel free to customize! Swap the currants and cranberries for other dried fruits like chopped dates or apricots, or use sunflower seeds instead of pumpkin seeds.
• For a different flavor profile, try using orange zest and juice instead of lemon, or add a pinch of ground ginger.
• If your nut butter is particularly oily and runny, you may not need any water. If it’s very thick and dry, you might need a little more than the recipe calls for.
FAQ
Q: How can I add more plant-based protein to these energy balls
A: To boost the protein content, you can add 1/4 cup of your favorite vegetarian or vegan protein powder, or 2-3 tablespoons of hemp seeds or chia seeds. You may need to add a little extra water or nut butter to help the mixture bind.
Q: Can I make these energy balls nut-free
A: Absolutely. For a nut-free vegetarian version, simply substitute the almond or peanut butter with an equal amount of sunflower seed butter (sunbutter) or tahini. This is a great option for those with nut allergies.
Q: Are these almond butter energy balls gluten-free
A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free. While oats are naturally gluten-free, they can be cross-contaminated during processing. To ensure the recipe is completely gluten-free, be sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
Q: What is the best way to store these vegetarian energy balls
A: Store your energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer-term storage, they freeze beautifully. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months.
