Looking for a grab-and-go snack that tastes like freshly baked banana bread? Look no further than Banana Bread Energy Balls! These little bites are packed with all the flavors you love in classic banana bread but in a portable and convenient form. Perfect for a midday pick-me-up or a pre-workout snack, these energy balls are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and give you the energy boost you need to power through your day. So, let's get ready to roll and whip up a batch of these delicious treats!
As someone who loves banana bread but also values healthy eating, I was excited to come across a recipe for Banana Bread Energy Balls. I gathered all the ingredients, including ripe bananas, oats, almond butter, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
I was so pleased with how easy and tasty the Banana Bread Energy Balls were to make that I've now added them to my regular snack rotation. They're a great way to satisfy my sweet cravings while still maintaining a balanced and healthy diet.
What are energy balls?
Energy balls are small balls made of nutrient-dense ingredients that are typically consumed as a snack for a quick energy boost. They are usually made by combining ingredients like oats, nut butter, dried fruits, and seeds, which are then rolled into small balls. Energy balls are customizable and can be made with various flavors and ingredients. They are easy to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for a quick and healthy snack.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ½ cup almond butter (or any nut butter of your choice)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Extra oats for rolling (optional)
These ingredients can easily be found at any regular grocery store or health food store. Additionally, you can also customize the recipe by adding additional ingredients such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit.
How to make them?
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rolled oats, and almond butter. Mix until well combined.
- Add in the honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- If the mixture is too sticky, add more oats, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach a consistency that's easy to handle.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
- Roll each ball in extra oats (optional) for a bit of texture.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Banana Bread Energy Balls as a quick snack or breakfast on the go!
HOW TO STORE ENERGY BALLS
Energy balls are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for a longer period of time. Depending on the recipe, energy balls can last for up to a week in the refrigerator.
Refrigerating and Freezing Energy balls
If you want to store them for even longer, you can also freeze them. Place the energy balls in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen energy balls, simply transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them thaw for a few hours before consuming them. You can also eat them straight from the freezer if you prefer a frozen treat.
It's important to note that the texture of the energy balls may change slightly after being frozen and thawed, but they should still be safe to eat and enjoy.
FAQs
Can I use a different nut butter instead of almond butter?
Yes, you can use any nut butter of your choice in this recipe, such as peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.
Can I make these energy balls without honey or maple syrup?
Yes, you can omit honey or maple syrup if you prefer. The mashed bananas provide natural sweetness to the recipe.
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats may not work as well in this recipe as they have a different texture than rolled oats. It's best to stick to rolled oats for the best results.
How long can I store energy balls?
Energy balls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I bake these energy balls instead of refrigerating them?
This recipe is not meant to be baked. Refrigerating the energy balls helps them set and keeps them firm.
Conclusion
Banana Bread Energy Balls are a delicious and healthy snack that's easy to make and perfect for anyone on the go. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a tasty treat that's packed with nutrients and energy.
Banana Bread Energy Balls are a great snack to have on hand when you need a quick boost of energy or a healthy snack to satisfy your cravings. They're easy to make, delicious, and packed with nutrients that your body will love!
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