Looking for a tasty yet healthy snack? Try my Chocolate Peppermint Energy Balls! These bite-sized treats pack energy, flavor, and nutrition into every bite. With simple steps using easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up these snacks quickly. They’re perfect for a midday boost or a fun treat after a workout. Ready to get started? Let me guide you through making these delicious energy balls that everyone will love!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make Chocolate Peppermint Energy Balls, gather these simple ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of sea salt
– Optional: crushed peppermint candies for rolling
Nutritional Information
These energy balls are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Each ball contains:
– Protein: Almond butter provides healthy protein.
– Fiber: Rolled oats add fiber, aiding digestion.
– Healthy Fats: Almond butter gives good fats for energy.
– Antioxidants: Cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips are rich in antioxidants.
One energy ball has around 100 calories. Adjust your serving to fit your snack needs.
Substitutions and Alternatives
You can switch some ingredients if needed:
– Nut Butter: Use peanut butter or sunbutter if you have nut allergies.
– Sweetener: Maple syrup works well instead of honey for a vegan option.
– Cocoa Powder: Carob powder can replace cocoa if you want a different taste.
– Chocolate Chips: Use dairy-free chips for a vegan treat.
– Peppermint Extract: Peppermint oil can replace extract, but use less.
Feel free to explore these options while making your energy balls. Each change can lead to a new flavor adventure!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed Preparation Steps
To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll need rolled oats, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, unsweetened cocoa powder, mini dark chocolate chips, peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, and honey or maple syrup. Next, add the unsweetened cocoa powder, mini dark chocolate chips, peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Mix everything until it forms a sticky dough. I find using my hands helps to blend it well.
Chilling the Mixture
Once you mix the ingredients, refrigerate the dough for about 15 to 20 minutes. Chilling makes it easier to shape the balls. The cold helps the mixture firm up. This step is key for easy rolling. While you wait, you can clean up your space or prepare your toppings.
Rolling the Balls
After chilling, scoop out about one tablespoon of the mixture. Roll it into a ball shape using your hands. If you want, roll each ball in crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch. Place the finished energy balls on a parchment-lined plate. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy these tasty snacks for up to one week!
Tips & Tricks
How to Make Perfectly Shaped Energy Balls
To shape energy balls perfectly, keep the mixture cold. After mixing, chill it for 15-20 minutes. This makes the dough firm and easier to handle. Use a tablespoon to scoop the mixture. Roll it gently in your hands to form a tight ball. If your hands get sticky, wet them slightly with water. This helps prevent the mixture from sticking to your fingers.
Storing and Handling
Store your energy balls in an airtight container. They last up to one week in the fridge. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to separate each ball with parchment paper. This way, they won’t stick together. When you’re ready to eat, take them out and let them thaw for a bit. This keeps them fresh and tasty.
Enhancing Flavor with Add-ins
You can boost the flavor of your energy balls with fun add-ins. Try adding a scoop of protein powder for extra nutrition. Chia seeds or flaxseeds add a nice crunch and are great for fiber. If you like spice, a dash of cinnamon pairs well with chocolate. For a fruity twist, mix in dried cherries or cranberries. You can even swap the dark chocolate chips for white chocolate for a different taste.
Variations
Alternate Flavor Combinations
You can change the flavor of your energy balls easily. Try using different nut butters like peanut or cashew. Swap out the peppermint extract for orange or almond for a fun twist. Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth to the flavor. You can also mix in other types of chocolate chips, like white chocolate or milk chocolate, for a different taste.
Allergy-Friendly Modifications
Making these energy balls allergy-friendly is simple. If you have nut allergies, use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter. You can replace honey with agave syrup for a safe option. If oats are a concern, use puffed rice or quinoa flakes. These swaps still keep the energy balls tasty and fun.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
To keep these energy balls vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey. Make sure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. For gluten-free energy balls, use certified gluten-free oats. These small changes let everyone enjoy a healthy snack without worry. You still get that delicious chocolate and peppermint flavor in every bite!
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your Chocolate Peppermint Energy Balls fresh, use an airtight container. This container should be kept in the fridge. Make sure to layer parchment paper between the balls. This prevents them from sticking together.
Shelf Life and Freezing Options
These energy balls last about one week in the fridge. If you want them to last longer, freeze them. Place the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for two hours, then transfer to a container. In the freezer, they can last for up to three months.
How to Keep Them Fresh Longer
To keep your energy balls fresh, always use clean hands when handling them. Avoid excess moisture, as it can lead to spoilage. If you plan to eat them later, only roll them in crushed peppermint before serving. This keeps the coating crisp and tasty.
FAQs
How long do Chocolate Peppermint Energy Balls last?
Chocolate Peppermint Energy Balls can last up to one week. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. This helps maintain their freshness and flavor. If you want to enjoy them longer, you can freeze them. When frozen, they can last for about three months. Just thaw them before eating.
Can I use different nut butters?
Yes, you can use different nut butters in this recipe. Peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter all work well. Each nut butter adds its own unique taste to the energy balls. Make sure to choose a nut butter that you love. This will make your energy balls even more delicious.
Are Chocolate Peppermint Energy Balls healthy?
Yes, Chocolate Peppermint Energy Balls are a healthy snack option. They contain rolled oats, which provide fiber and energy. The almond butter adds healthy fats and protein. Honey or maple syrup gives a touch of natural sweetness without being too sugary. Plus, dark chocolate chips add antioxidants. The combination makes for a balanced, nutritious treat.
In this post, we explored how to make Chocolate Peppermint Energy Balls. I shared ingredients, nutritional facts, and suggested substitutions. You learned step-by-step instructions and tips to shape and store these treats. I also offered variations for different tastes and dietary needs.
These energy balls are simple, healthy, and tasty. You can customize them easily. Enjoy making your own delicious snacks! Remember, the options are endless.
