Banana Chocolate Chip Energy Balls

These Banana Chocolate Chip Energy Balls are a no-bake, naturally sweet snack featuring ripe banana, oats, nut butter, and chocolate chips—perfect for on-the-go energy. With just 10 minutes of preparation, they are an easy and nutritious solution for busy days.

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Whipping up a batch of these treats requires only basic tools such as a mixing bowl and a fork or potato masher. They are a great snack for anyone looking for a quick bite that balances flavor and nutrition effortlessly.

Ingredients

• 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
• 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 until smooth.

Step 2

Add almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir until combined.

Step 3

Add oats, ground flaxseed, sea salt, and chocolate chips. Mix well until the mixture holds together.

Step 4

Refrigerate the mixture for 20-30 minutes to firm up (optional but recommended).

Step 5

Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined tray.

Step 6

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best consistency, mash the banana until it is completely smooth before adding other ingredients. While optional, refrigerating the mixture for 20-30 minutes makes the dough easier to handle and roll into uniform balls.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily adapt this recipe: substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version. For a vegan option, use maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate chips. You can also add chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chia seeds for extra texture and nutrition.

Serviervorschläge

These energy balls are best served chilled and make a wonderful grab-and-go snack. For optimal freshness, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

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Enjoy these healthy and delicious Banana Chocolate Chip Energy Balls whenever you need a quick burst of energy. They are simple, versatile, and sure to become a favorite in your snacking routine.

Recipe FAQ

→ How do I store banana energy balls?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The cold temperature helps maintain their shape and freshness. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature for 10 minutes before enjoying.

→ Can I make these nut-free?

Absolutely. Substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version that still provides creamy texture and healthy fats. Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free if needed, and check that your chocolate chips are manufactured in a nut-free facility.

→ Why is my mixture too sticky or dry?

If the mixture is too sticky, refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up before rolling. If it's too dry and crumbly, add another tablespoon of nut butter or a splash of maple syrup. The moisture content can vary based on banana ripeness and oat brand.

→ Can I bake these instead of no-bake?

These are designed as no-bake to preserve the fresh banana flavor and soft, chewy texture. Baking would change the consistency significantly. If you prefer baked oat bites, look for oatmeal cookie recipes instead.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

Maple syrup works perfectly for a vegan option. You can also use agave nectar or date syrup. If using liquid sweeteners, you may need slightly more oats to achieve the right consistency for rolling.

→ How many calories per energy ball?

Each ball contains approximately 85 calories, with 4 grams of fat, 12 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of protein. This makes them a balanced snack providing quick energy from carbs and sustained energy from healthy fats and protein.