Baked Oat and Fruit Energy Balls: A Healthy, Energizing Snack

These energy balls make for a great snack or a quick breakfast. Pair them with a smoothie or a piece of fruit for a balanced meal.
Store the energy balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
You can also freeze the energy balls for up to 3 months. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for storage.
Variants:

Nut-Free: Use sunflower butter or a different nut-free spread instead of almond or peanut butter.
Chocolate Chip Version: Add 1/4 cup of mini dark chocolate chips for a sweet treat.
Add Seeds: Incorporate chia seeds, hemp seeds, or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and nutrients.
Spiced Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warming flavor profile.
FAQ:

Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit? Fresh fruit may be too moist and could alter the texture. It’s best to stick with dried fruit for a firmer texture, but you could try using freeze-dried fruit as an alternative.

Can I make these energy balls without baking them? Yes! If you prefer a no-bake version, simply refrigerate the formed balls for at least 30 minutes to firm them up before serving.

Can I make these energy balls vegan? Yes, simply swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar, and ensure that the nut butter you use is vegan-friendly.

How can I make these more protein-packed? To boost the protein content, add 2 tablespoons of protein powder (such as plant-based or whey protein) to the mixture. You can also increase the amount of nut butter.