There’s something about peanut butter that instantly transports me back to childhood. Whether it was sneaking spoonfuls straight from the jar or enjoying it slathered on a piece of toast before heading out the door, peanut butter has always been a staple in my kitchen. Now, as an adult constantly on the go, I find that I still crave that familiar, comforting taste. Enter these Peanut Butter Energy Balls. They’re not only a quick and easy snack but also packed with nutrients that keep you fueled throughout the day.
I first discovered a variation of this recipe during a hiking trip with friends. We needed something portable, filling, and tasty to keep our energy up during long treks. One of my friends whipped up a batch of energy balls using ingredients she had on hand. The combination of oats, peanut butter, and a touch of sweetness from honey was simple yet satisfying. Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe to suit my tastes, adding mini chocolate morsels for a bit of indulgence and finely ground flaxseed for an extra boost of fiber and omega-3s.
One of the things I love most about these Peanut Butter Energy Balls is how customizable they are. You can easily swap out the honey for maple syrup or agave if you’re looking for a vegan option. I’ve even tried adding a handful of dried cranberries or chopped nuts for a bit of variety. The recipe is forgiving, so feel free to get creative with whatever you have in your pantry.
These energy balls are perfect for meal prepping. You can make a batch at the beginning of the week, store them in the refrigerator, and have a convenient, healthy snack ready whenever you need a pick-me-up. They’re also great for packing in lunchboxes or taking along on outdoor adventures.
Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on the go, a post-workout snack, or just a tasty treat, these Peanut Butter Energy Balls have you covered. Give them a try, and I’m sure they’ll become a regular in your snack rotation, just as they have in mine.
How to Prepare Peanut Butter Energy Balls
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup finely ground flaxseed
- 1 1/2 cups oats, rolled
- 4 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup or agave)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Directions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the oats, peanut butter, ground flaxseed, mini chocolate chips, and honey.
- Stir the ingredients together thoroughly until well combined.
- Refrigerate the mixture for about 10-15 minutes to allow it to firm up.
- Once the mixture has chilled, shape it into 18 bite-sized balls.
- Store the energy balls in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Storing Suggestions:
To keep the energy balls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months.
FAQs:
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of smooth?
Yes, you can use chunky peanut butter if you prefer a bit more texture in your energy balls. However, the mixture may be slightly harder to mix, so make sure everything is well incorporated.
Are there any alternatives to flaxseed?
If you don’t have flaxseed on hand, you can substitute it with chia seeds, hemp seeds, or even finely ground oats. Each will add a slightly different texture and nutritional profile.
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of rolled oats?
Old-fashioned oats can be used, but they will give a chewier texture to the energy balls. If you prefer a smoother consistency, stick with rolled oats.
What can I add for extra flavor or nutrition?
You can customize these energy balls by adding ingredients like dried fruit, shredded coconut, or a scoop of protein powder. Just be sure to adjust the wet ingredients if necessary to maintain the right consistency.
How can I make these energy balls vegan?
To make the recipe vegan, use maple syrup or agave instead of honey. Also, ensure that the chocolate chips are dairy-free.
Can I prepare the mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, simply roll the mixture into balls. This can be a great time-saver if you’re meal-prepping.
Peanut Butter Energy Balls
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1/2 cup finely ground flaxseed
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate morsels
- 4 tablespoons honey or maple syrup or agave
Instructions
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, smooth peanut butter, finely ground flaxseed, mini chocolate morsels, and honey. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. Place the mixture in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm up the batter.
- Once chilled, form the mixture into 18 bite-sized balls. Keep the energy balls in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Enjoy!
