These Banana Energy Balls are the perfect snack for a quick boost! Made with ripe bananas, oats, and nut butter, they’re sweet, chewy, and oh-so-delicious!
I love making these for a post-workout treat. They’re easy to whip up, and I can grab one on the go. Plus, who can resist a snack that’s like eating a cookie? 🍌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas are key for natural sweetness and creaminess. If you’re out of bananas, you can use applesauce as a substitute, though the flavor will change slightly.
Nut Butter: While almond butter is my go-to, peanut butter or cashew butter work well too. If you need a nut-free option, try sunflower seed butter.
Honey/Maple Syrup: I prefer honey for its richness, but maple syrup is a great vegan substitute. If you’re watching sugar intake, try using a sugar-free syrup or reduce the quantity.
Oats: Rolled oats are perfect for texture. If you only have quick oats, that’s fine, but they might get mushy faster. Gluten-free oats are also available for those with gluten sensitivities.
How Can I Make Sure These Balls Hold Together?
The mixture can be a bit crumbly if not enough moisture is present. Here are some tips to ensure they hold together:
- Use overly ripe bananas; the more brown spots, the better the flavor and moisture.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more nut butter or a splash of almond milk to help bind it.
- Letting them chill in the fridge is crucial; it helps them firm up and hold their shape.
How to Make Delicious Banana Energy Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter (or other nut butter)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you should refrigerate the energy balls for at least 30 minutes to let them firm up. So, in total, you’ll need about 40 minutes before they’re ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mash the Bananas:
Start by peeling the ripe bananas and placing them in a large bowl. Use a fork to mash them until they are smooth and creamy. This is where the sweetness comes from, so make sure they are nice and ripe!
2. Mix in the Sticky Ingredients:
To the mashed bananas, add the almond butter, honey or maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together well until it’s all combined. You’ll have a nice gooey mixture that smells amazing!
3. Combine with Oats and Coconut:
Now, it’s time to add the rolled oats. If you’re using shredded coconut, add it in as well. Mix everything together thoroughly until all the oats and coconut are fully incorporated into the banana mixture. It should be sticky but hold together!
4. Shape the Energy Balls:
Using your hands, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Make sure they are compact so they don’t fall apart later!
5. Chill and Set:
Place the energy balls on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper. pop them into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help them firm up and hold their shape.
6. Store and Enjoy:
Once chilled, transfer the energy balls to an airtight container. You can store them in the fridge for up to one week. Whenever you need a quick snack or energy boost, just grab one (or two) and enjoy your healthy treat!
Can I Use Ripe Bananas That Are Overripe?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe as they are sweeter and easier to mash. Just ensure there are no moldy spots before using them!
Can I Make These Energy Balls Vegan?
Yes! To make the energy balls vegan, simply use maple syrup instead of honey, and you’re good to go. Most nut butters are also vegan, but always check the label to be sure!
How Long Will These Energy Balls Last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, these energy balls will stay fresh for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage – just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy them!
Can I Add Extras to the Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the energy balls by adding extras like chocolate chips, dried fruits, chia seeds, or nuts. Just make sure to keep the overall consistency in mind when adding anything extra!
