Looking for a quick snack that’s both delicious and healthy? These Dairy Free Energy Balls are perfect for clean eating! I remember the first time my son, Jake, helped me make these. He was so excited to mix everything together, and we ended up with a delightful mess in the kitchen. But hey, that’s what makes cooking fun, right?
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- They’re super easy to make and require no baking.
- Packed with nutrients, these energy balls are great for a quick pick-me-up.
- Perfect for kids and adults alike, everyone loves them!
Pure Comfort
These Dairy Free Energy Balls are not just tasty; they’re also a great way to fuel your day. With wholesome ingredients, they make a fantastic snack for busy afternoons or post-workout boosts.
What You Need
- 1 cup 1 cup rolled oats – Use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup almond butter – Peanut butter can be used as a substitute.
- 1/4 cup 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup – Maple syrup makes it vegan.
- 1/4 cup 1/4 cup chia seeds – Chia seeds add fiber and omega-3s.
- 1/4 cup 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips – Use dairy-free chocolate for a fully dairy-free option.
- 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – For added flavor.
Time to Cook
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 0 minutes | Total: 10 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, they can be made a few days in advance.
Steps to Make It
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. It helps to have everything ready so you can mix them quickly. The aroma of almond butter will fill your kitchen, making it feel cozy.
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well mixed. You want a sticky consistency that holds together nicely.
- Next, add in the chia seeds and dark chocolate chips. Fold them into the mixture gently. You should see the chocolate chips evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Once mixed, use your hands to form small balls, about the size of a tablespoon. Roll them between your palms until they’re smooth. This is where the fun happens, so let the kids help out!
- Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they’re spaced out a bit. They might look a bit rustic, but that’s part of their charm.
- Refrigerate the energy balls for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up, making them easier to eat. You’ll know they’re ready when they feel solid to the touch.
- After chilling, transfer the energy balls to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy them anytime you need a healthy snack!
Make It Perfect
- If the mixture is too dry, add a splash of water or more almond butter to achieve the right consistency.
- Feel free to experiment with different add-ins like dried fruit or nuts for variety.
- These energy balls are great for meal prep; make a big batch and keep them on hand.
Mix It Up
- Try adding shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Substitute sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
- Add a scoop of protein powder for an extra protein boost.
Perfect Partners
- Pair these energy balls with a smoothie for a balanced snack.
- They also go well with fresh fruit like apples or bananas.
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FAQs
Can I make these energy balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! They keep well in the fridge for up to a week.
How should I store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze these energy balls?
Yes, they freeze well! Just place them in a freezer-safe container.
What can I substitute for almond butter?
Peanut butter or sunflower seed butter work great as substitutes.
Are these energy balls suitable for kids?
Yes! They’re a healthy snack option that kids love.
Conclusion
These Dairy Free Energy Balls are a fantastic addition to your clean eating routine. Easy to make and packed with nutrition, they’re perfect for busy days or after-school snacks. Give them a try and watch your family enjoy these tasty little bites!
Dairy Free Energy Balls Recipe for Clean Eating
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
Rolled Oats
- 1 cup rolled oats Use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version.
- 1/2 cup almond butter Peanut butter can be used as a substitute.
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup Maple syrup makes it vegan.
- 1/4 cup chia seeds Chia seeds add fiber and omega-3s.
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips Use dairy-free chocolate for a fully dairy-free option.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract For added flavor.
Instructions
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. It helps to have everything ready so you can mix them quickly.
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Next, add in the chia seeds and dark chocolate chips. Fold them into the mixture gently.
- Once mixed, use your hands to form small balls, about the size of a tablespoon.
- Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate the energy balls for at least 30 minutes.
- After chilling, transfer the energy balls to an airtight container.