Simple Peanut Balls Recipe
Peanut balls are a delicious and nutritious snack that’s perfect for a quick energy boost. This recipe is simple, requiring minimal ingredients and no baking. They are also customizable, so you can adjust them to suit your preferences. Here’s how to make peanut balls in a few easy steps.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky, as preferred)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup crushed peanuts
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. If your peanut butter is too thick, warm it slightly in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to make it easier to mix. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. - Add the Dry Ingredients
Add the rolled oats, crushed peanuts, and a pinch of salt to the bowl with the wet mixture. If you’re adding any optional ingredients like mini chocolate chips, chia seeds, or flaxseeds, mix them in at this stage. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly distributed, and the mixture starts to come together. - Check the Consistency
The mixture should be sticky enough to hold together when pressed. If it’s too dry and crumbly, add a little more honey or peanut butter, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. If the mixture is too wet and sticky, add a little more oats or crushed peanuts. - Shape the Peanut Balls
Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your hands to form a ball. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat until all the mixture is used up. You should get about 20-25 peanut balls, depending on the size. - Chill the Peanut Balls
Once all the balls are shaped, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the balls firm up and hold their shape. If you’re in a hurry, you can place them in the freezer for about 15 minutes instead. - Serve and Enjoy
After chilling, your peanut balls are ready to eat! They make a great snack for on-the-go, a post-workout treat, or a quick dessert. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips and Variations:
- Substitute Ingredients: If you have nut allergies, you can substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter. For a vegan option, ensure that the chocolate chips and sweetener (if using honey) are vegan-friendly.
- Add-ins: Feel free to get creative with add-ins. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts can be mixed into the peanut ball dough for added texture and flavor.
- Coating Options: For an extra touch, roll the peanut balls in toppings like desiccated coconut, cocoa powder, or crushed nuts before chilling.
- Gluten-Free Option: Make sure to use gluten-free oats if you’re serving these to someone with gluten intolerance.
Nutritional Benefits:
Peanut balls are packed with protein and fiber, making them a satisfying snack that can keep you full between meals. Peanut butter is a good source of healthy fats and protein, while oats provide fiber and essential nutrients. The optional chia seeds or flaxseeds add omega-3 fatty acids and additional fiber.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy peanut balls as a quick breakfast on busy mornings.
- Pack them as a snack for school or work.
- Serve them as a healthy dessert or a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee or tea.
- Use them as an energy-boosting snack before or after a workout.
Storage:
To keep your peanut balls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just let them thaw for a few minutes at room temperature before eating.
Final Thoughts
This simple peanut balls recipe is versatile and easy to make. With a base of wholesome ingredients like peanut butter and oats, these balls are not only delicious but also provide a nutritious snack option. Whether you’re looking for a quick energy boost, a post-workout snack, or a healthier dessert, peanut balls are a go-to treat. Adjust the recipe to your liking by experimenting with different add-ins and coatings to make them uniquely yours!