Banana energy balls are a tasty and healthy snack! Made with ripe bananas, oats, and nut butter, they pack a sweet crunch that’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up.
These little bites are super easy to make and perfect for busy days. I love grabbing one when I need a boost or just a yummy treat. Plus, no baking required—just mix, roll, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ripe Bananas: The bananas need to be overripe for the best flavor. They add natural sweetness and make the mixture stickier. If you’re short on bananas, you can use applesauce as an alternative—about ½ cup per banana.
Rolled Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for texture. If you want a gluten-free option, make sure to choose certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can be substituted but will result in a softer texture.
Nut Butter: Peanut butter adds great flavor, but you can use almond butter or even sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version. Just use what you enjoy or have on hand!
Sweetener: Honey and maple syrup will both work! If you’re vegan or want to skip the sugar, try mashed dates or a sugar-free syrup alternative.
Add-Ins: Chopped nuts, seeds, chocolate chips, or dried fruit are optional but they add texture and flavor. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste preferences!
How Do I Make the Perfect Energy Balls?
Getting the right blend for these energy balls is key. You want a sticky yet moldable texture without being too wet. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure your bananas are really ripe and mashed well. A fork works perfectly for this.
- When mixing in the oats and other ingredients, stir until everything is combined, but don’t over-mix.
- If the mixture feels too dry, a splash of milk (dairy or non-dairy) can help moisten it.
- Form the balls with moistened hands to prevent sticking. This helps them hold together better.
Chill the balls in the fridge after forming to help them hold their shape. This is a great step to prevent them from falling apart when you bite into them later! Enjoy your homemade energy boost!
How to Make Banana Energy Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ¼ cup nut butter (such as peanut butter or almond butter)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup chopped nuts or seeds (optional)
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips or dried fruit (optional)
- A pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes before you can enjoy these tasty bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mash the Bananas:
Start by peeling the ripe bananas and placing them in a mixing bowl. Use a fork to mash them up until they are smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your energy balls!
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Next, mix in the nut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Blend everything together until it’s well combined. This mixture is going to be sweet and yummy!
3. Stir in the Dry Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the rolled oats, a pinch of salt, and any optional ingredients like chopped nuts or seeds and mini chocolate chips or dried fruit. Stir until everything is combined and the oats soak up some moisture from the mixture.
4. Form the Energy Balls:
With clean hands, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in size. This can get a little messy, but having fun is part of the process!
5. Chill and Store:
Place the energy balls on a plate or a tray and pop them into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape. Once chilled, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for later.
6. Enjoy!
These banana energy balls are perfect for a snack anytime you need a quick energy boost. Grab one on the go, share with friends, or enjoy them at home. They’re delicious and nutritious!
Can I Use Overripe Bananas?
Absolutely! In fact, overripe bananas are ideal for this recipe as they are sweeter and easier to mash, giving your energy balls a great flavor.
Can I Substitute the Nut Butter?
Yes! Feel free to use any nut butter you prefer, such as almond, cashew, or even sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Just make sure it’s creamy for the best texture!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store your banana energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you’d like them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! You can get creative with add-ins. Consider adding shredded coconut, chia seeds, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. Just make sure to keep the balance of wet and dry ingredients in check for the right consistency.
