Why You’ll Love No Bake Energy Balls Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it:
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Comes together in about 10 minutes — no baking required
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Uses clean, simple ingredients that still give you great flavor and texture
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Feels indulgent like a cookie or treat, yet is wholesome enough to enjoy anytime
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Is versatile: you can change up nuts, chocolate, or dried fruit to fit your taste
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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whole rolled oats (not instant)
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ground flaxseed + warm water
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roasted almond butter
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maple syrup
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Medjool dates, pitted (or extra maple syrup if you don’t use dates)
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coconut oil
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vanilla extract
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cinnamon
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sea salt
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chopped walnuts
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shredded coconut
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mini chocolate chips
Directions
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In a medium pan, toast the oats over low heat until they are just beginning to brown around the edges, about 1‑2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
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In a small bowl, combine the flaxseed and warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
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Meanwhile, in a food processor, combine the almond butter, maple syrup, dates, coconut oil, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
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Add the thickened flaxseed mixture to the food processor and blend until smooth.
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Add the walnuts and pulse until combined. Add the toasted oats and shredded coconut and pulse again.
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Finally, add the chocolate chips and pulse just until evenly distributed.
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Roll the mixture into 12 balls. If the dough is too sticky, chill briefly before rolling.
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Chill the rolled balls in the fridge for at least 30 minutes until firm.
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Servings and timing
Serves: 12 balls
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes (plus chilling)
Variations
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Swap chopped almonds or pecans for the walnuts
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Replace mini chocolate chips with chopped dark chocolate or dried fruit
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Use peanut butter instead of almond butter
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Soak firm dates in warm water for 10–20 minutes before using
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Omit shredded coconut and use other mix-ins for a coconut-free version
Storage/Reheating
Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Let sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before eating if frozen.
No reheating is needed — they are ready to enjoy straight from the fridge or thawed from the freezer.
FAQs
What type of oats should I use?
Use whole rolled (old-fashioned) oats for the best chewy texture. Avoid instant oats.
Can I make these if I’m gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
Do I need a food processor?
Yes, a food processor helps blend the ingredients smoothly and ensures the right consistency.
Can I skip the dates?
Yes, you can use an additional 2 tablespoons of maple syrup instead of dates.
My dough is too sticky to roll — what should I do?
Chill the mixture for a few minutes in the fridge to make it easier to handle.
How long do they last?
They last up to 2 weeks in the fridge and up to 2 months in the freezer.
Can I make them ahead or for meal prep?
Yes, they’re ideal for meal prep. Make a batch and keep them stored for quick snacks.
Can I omit the chocolate chips?
Yes, you can leave them out or use chopped dried fruit or dark chocolate instead.
Are these considered a dessert or snack?
They work as both — enjoy them as a healthy snack or a small post-meal treat.
Can I adjust the ratio for different size balls?
Yes, make them smaller for bite-sized snacks and slightly reduce chilling time.
Conclusion
These no bake energy balls are the perfect mix of healthy and indulgent. They’re easy to make, customizable, and ideal for snacking on the go. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a healthier dessert option, these energy balls have you covered. Keep a batch in the fridge or freezer and grab one whenever you need a delicious energy boost.
