Banana Chocolate Chip Energy Balls Recipe
Introduction
These Banana Chocolate Chip Energy Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack that’s perfect for on-the-go energy. Made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, nut butter, and a hint of sweetness, they offer a satisfying treat that’s easy to whip up in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 large ripe banana, mashed
- 1.5 cups rolled oats
- 0.5 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 0.25 cup honey or maple syrup
- 0.33 cup mini chocolate chips
- 0.25 cup ground flaxseed
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth using a fork or potato masher.
- Step 2: Add the almond butter (or peanut butter), honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Stir until fully combined.
- Step 3: Mix in the rolled oats, ground flaxseed, a pinch of sea salt, and mini chocolate chips. Stir thoroughly until the mixture holds together when pressed.
- Step 4: Refrigerate the mixture for 20 to 30 minutes to firm it up, which makes shaping easier. This step is optional but recommended.
- Step 5: Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Step 6: Transfer the energy balls to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free option, substitute almond or peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Add a handful of chopped nuts or shredded coconut for extra texture.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor and less sweetness.
- If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more oats or flaxseed to help it bind better.
- These energy balls can be rolled in cocoa powder or crushed nuts for a fun twist.
Storage
Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before eating. Reheating is not necessary.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, old-fashioned oats work just as well in this recipe and will provide a similar texture.
Are these energy balls gluten-free?
They are naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. Always check the packaging to be sure.
PrintBanana Chocolate Chip Energy Balls Recipe
These Banana Chocolate Chip Energy Balls are a wholesome, no-bake snack made with ripe bananas, oats, almond butter, and chocolate chips. Packed with natural sweetness and fiber, they’re perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy treat on the go.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 energy balls 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large ripe banana, mashed
- 1.5 cups rolled oats
- 0.5 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 0.25 cup honey or maple syrup
- 0.33 cup mini chocolate chips
- 0.25 cup ground flaxseed
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the banana base: In a large bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork or potato masher until smooth and creamy, which forms the base of the energy balls.
- Combine wet ingredients: Add the almond butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Stir thoroughly until all wet components are fully integrated.
- Mix all components: Incorporate the rolled oats, ground flaxseed, sea salt, and mini chocolate chips into the wet mixture. Mix well until the mixture holds together when pressed.
- Chill the mixture: Place the bowl in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up. This step is optional but helps with easier handling and shaping.
- Shape into balls: Using your hands, roll the chilled mixture into 1-inch sized balls. Arrange them neatly on a parchment-lined tray for easy storage.
- Store properly: Transfer the energy balls into an airtight container and refrigerate. They can be stored for up to one week, making them ideal for meal prep or snacks on the go.
Notes
- Chilling the mixture makes it easier to handle and shape into balls.
- You can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or any nut butter of your choice.
- Maple syrup is a vegan alternative to honey.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the rolled oats are certified gluten-free.
- These energy balls can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw before eating.
- If the mixture is too sticky, add a little more oats or flaxseed to firm it up.
Keywords: banana energy balls, chocolate chip snacks, healthy energy bites, no-bake snacks, quick energy balls
