Save to Pinterest My kitchen counter was covered in overripe bananas last Tuesday, and I refused to let another batch go to waste. I started mashing one into a bowl with almond butter and oats, mostly just experimenting to see what would happen. The combination turned into this doughy, chocolate-studded mixture that I couldn't stop eating straight from the bowl. Now these energy balls are the first thing I reach for when that afternoon slump hits around 3pm.
Last month I brought a batch to my sisters study group and watched them disappear within minutes. Her roommate asked for the recipe before even swallowing her first bite, claiming these were better than any protein bar shes ever bought. Something about the combination of sweet banana, salty almond butter, and those tiny chocolate chips just works.
Ingredients
- 1 large ripe banana, mashed: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your energy balls will be
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats: Old-fashioned oats give the best texture, but quick oats work in a pinch
- 1/2 cup almond butter: Creamy almond butter binds everything together while adding protein and healthy fats
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup: Just enough natural sweetness to hold the mixture together without being cloying
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips: Mini chips distribute more evenly throughout each bite
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed: Adds a subtle nuttiness and boosts the nutrition without changing the taste
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract rounds out all the flavors beautifully
- Pinch of sea salt: Enhances the chocolate and brings out the bananas natural sweetness
Instructions
- Mash your banana:
- Peel the banana and mash it in a large bowl until no large lumps remain
- Combine the wet ingredients:
- Add the almond butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract, stirring until completely smooth
- Mix in the dry ingredients:
- Fold in the oats, ground flaxseed, sea salt, and chocolate chips until everything is evenly distributed
- Chill the mixture:
- Refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes so the dough becomes easier to handle and roll
- Form the balls:
- Scoop about a tablespoon of mixture and roll between your palms into 1-inch balls, placing them on a parchment-lined tray
- Store properly:
- Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week
Save to Pinterest My toddler helped me roll the last batch, and her little hands got covered in sticky dough. We ended up eating more than we rolled, standing there with chocolate on our faces, laughing at the mess. Those are the moments that make this recipe special.
Making Them Your Own
Substitute sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version that still delivers that creamy richness. I once used peanut butter when I was out of almond butter, and honestly, it might be even better that way.
Texture Variations
Throw in chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, or add dried cranberries and white chocolate chips for a festive twist. The possibilities are endless once you have the base mixture down.
Storage And Meal Prep
Double the batch and freeze half for those weeks when meal prep feels impossible. They thaw in about twenty minutes and taste just as fresh as the day you made them.
- Layer parchment paper between stacked balls so they dont stick
- Freeze for up to three months in a freezer-safe container
- These also make great gifts for new parents or busy friends
Save to Pinterest Hope these become your go-to snack the way they have for my family. Theres something deeply satisfying about making something so delicious from such simple ingredients.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long do these energy balls last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They also freeze well for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge overnight.
- → Can I make these nut-free?
Absolutely! Substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter for a completely nut-free version that still provides creamy texture and protein.
- → What if my mixture is too sticky or dry?
If too sticky, add more oats 1 tablespoon at a time. If too dry, add a teaspoon of maple syrup or a splash of water until the mixture holds together nicely.
- → Do I need to refrigerate the mixture before rolling?
While optional, chilling for 20-30 minutes makes rolling much easier and prevents sticking. The mixture firms up beautifully in the cold.
- → Can I add other mix-ins?
Definitely! Try chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, chia seeds, shredded coconut, or protein powder for different flavor and nutrition variations.