Banana Chocolate Chip Energy Balls

Banana Chocolate Chip Energy Balls are the ultimate no-bake snack, combining ripe bananas, hearty rolled oats, and creamy almond butter into a naturally sweet treat. These bite-sized snacks are incredibly easy to prepare and provide a wholesome burst of energy whenever you need it most.

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Whether you are looking for a quick breakfast for a busy morning or a post-workout recovery snack, these energy balls are a versatile addition to your kitchen routine. They are packed with nutritious ingredients like ground flaxseed and oats to keep you feeling full and focused.

Ingredients

• Base
• 1 large ripe banana, mashed
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• Add-ins
• 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

Step 1

In a large bowl, mash the banana using a fork or potato masher until smooth.

Step 2

Add the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir the mixture until it is well combined.

Step 3

Stir in the rolled oats, ground flaxseed, sea salt, and mini chocolate chips. Mix thoroughly until the dough holds together.

Step 4

Place the bowl in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This optional step helps the mixture firm up for easier rolling.

Step 5

Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a tray or plate, ideally lined with parchment paper.

Step 6

Transfer the balls to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best consistency, ensure the banana is very ripe and mashed thoroughly. If the dough feels too soft to roll, the chilling step in the refrigerator is highly recommended to help the oats absorb the moisture and firm up the base.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily adapt this recipe to your dietary needs. For a vegan version, substitute the honey for maple syrup and use dairy-free chocolate chips. If you have a nut allergy, sunflower seed butter is an excellent alternative to almond butter.

Serviervorschläge

These energy balls are best served chilled directly from the refrigerator. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or can be packed into lunchboxes for a nutritious midday pick-me-up. Each ball provides approximately 85 calories, 12 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of protein.

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With their perfect balance of sweetness and texture, these Banana Chocolate Chip Energy Balls are sure to become a staple in your snack rotation. They are a simple, wholesome way to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying fueled throughout the day.

Recipe FAQ

→ How long do banana energy balls keep?

These energy balls stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The cold temperature helps maintain their shape and texture while keeping the ingredients fresh.

→ Can I freeze banana chocolate chip balls?

Yes, these freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. Thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before enjoying.

→ What can I use instead of almond butter?

Peanut butter, sunflower seed butter for nut-free, cashew butter, or even tahini work well. Each brings a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining the creamy texture needed to hold the balls together.

→ Why is refrigeration recommended before rolling?

Chilling the mixture for 20-30 minutes makes it firmer and less sticky, which makes rolling much easier. The oats absorb moisture during this time, resulting in perfectly shaped balls that hold their form.

→ How can I make these vegan?

Replace honey with maple syrup and ensure you use dairy-free chocolate chips. The rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based, making this a simple swap to create a fully vegan snack.

→ Can I add protein powder to boost the nutrition?

You can add 1-2 tablespoons of vanilla or chocolate protein powder, though you may need to increase the nut butter or add a splash of plant milk to maintain the right consistency for rolling.