Description
Homemade cranberry coconut energy balls deliver a quick protein-packed snack perfect for busy lifestyles. Rolled with natural ingredients and balanced nutrition, these bite-sized treats provide delicious midday energy boosts you can enjoy anywhere.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (240 ml) rolled oats
- ½ cup (75 g) dried cranberries (unsweetened, if preferred)
- ½ cup (40 g) unsweetened shredded coconut (+ extra for rolling)
- ½ cup (60 g) almonds or cashews (chopped)
- ⅓ cup (80 ml) honey or maple syrup
- ⅓ cup (80 g) almond or peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tbsp chia or flaxseeds (optional, for extra nutrition)
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly blend oats, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, cinnamon, and chia seeds until evenly distributed.
- Bind and Mix: Pour honey or maple syrup, almond butter, and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients. Stir vigorously until the mixture develops a cohesive, slightly sticky consistency that holds together when pressed.
- Form Energy Balls: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and compress firmly between palms, rolling into smooth, uniform spheres. If the mixture feels too crumbly, gradually incorporate additional nut butter or liquid sweetener to improve texture and binding.
- Finish and Coat: Gently roll each energy ball in reserved shredded coconut, creating an elegant exterior layer that adds visual appeal and subtle crunch.
- Chill and Store: Place the prepared energy balls on a plate or in a storage container, then refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to set and firm up. Once chilled, transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer preservation.
Notes
- Adjust Moisture Carefully: Monitor the mixture’s consistency, adding binding agents like honey or almond butter gradually to prevent over-softening or crumbling.
- Customize Nut Options: Swap chopped nuts based on dietary preferences or allergies, ensuring texture and flavor remain balanced.
- Control Coconut Coating: Roll energy balls gently in shredded coconut for even coverage, preventing clumping or excessive layering.
- Optimize Storage Technique: Separate layers with parchment paper when refrigerating or freezing to prevent sticking and maintain individual ball shape.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Breakfast
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 11
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg