These Strawberry Energy Balls are just the afternoon pick-me-up you've been looking for! They're sweet, easy to make, and perfect for all ages. They are sweetened with dates and maple syrup for a natural taste that makes them irresistible. But don't worry, they're healthy treats so you won't think twice about coming back for more.
These gluten-free strawberry energy balls are the perfect treat for lunch boxes or even just to grab from the fridge for a pick-me-up. Oats are the base for these tasty energy balls which are sweetened with dates, almond butter, and fresh strawberries. It can be hard to find snacks that are simple and filling but when the hunger strikes you need something quick. These strawberry energy bites can be made in just ten minutes of active prep time and then stored in the fridge for when you need them most.
These are the best strawberry energy balls because they are naturally sweetened and full of healthy fat and protein to keep you going. These strawberry balls are an excellent way to get extra nutrients into your day.
If you love the strawberry flavor, you'll love my Strawberry Mini Donuts and soft Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars! If you're simply a lover of snacks check out my guide for small charcuterie boards or my recipe for Loaded Mediterranean Hummus Dip!
What are Energy Balls?
Energy balls, energy bites, or bliss balls as some may call them are sweet treats that help curb hunger. Similar to an energy bar, but in a quick and poppable form; they're usually made with a mixture of oats, nuts, seeds, and often some type of fruit.
Why You'll Love It
Simple ingredients- These energy balls are only seven ingredients. Most of the ingredients are pantry-friendly and things you may already have on hand. You don't need any complicated ingredients for these energy bites. They can also be customized to fit your personal preferences such as swapping almond butter for peanut butter.
Grab and go friendly- These strawberry energy balls are the perfect snack for a busy day. They store well in lunchboxes making them an excellent sweet treat to enjoy alongside protein for a satisfying snack. If you find yourself reaching for granola bars, give these energy bites a try instead. They have less sugar and won't leave you feeling weighed down.
No bake- One of the best parts about these energy balls is that they're no bake! All you need is a food processor. They will need time to chill in the refrigerator but never need to go into the oven.
Ingredients
Oats- Rolled oats will be the base for this recipe. They will make the energy balls more filling and will add a great nutty taste.
Unsweetened coconut- I love to use shredded coconut. Unsweetened is ideal because it avoids added sugar but whichever kind you have on hand will work for this recipe.
Strawberries- Strawberries give these energy bites a ton of fruit flavor. Strawberries have a taste that naturally goes with almonds and oats making them the ideal addition to this recipe.
Almonds- Whole almonds add an amazing crunch to these strawberry energy balls. They are beneficial in energy ball recipes because of their protein and fat content, both of which help you to stay full longer. Alternatively, you can use raw cashews.
Medjool dates- Dates are an amazing ingredient. They pull double duty in sweet treats by acting as a binder and a sweetener. When blended, dates can turn into gooey caramel and make a fantastic base for energy balls and energy bars.
Almond butter-Almond butter adds a creamy texture and lots of flavors to this recipe. The blended dates and almond butter make for a perfectly textured energy bite that’s a mix of sweet and a little bit salty. You can swap for cashew butter or sunflower butter if almonds are not your thing.
Maple syrup- Maple syrup is used as a sweetener in this recipe and wonderfully complements the nutty undertones in these strawberry energy balls. Be sure to use pure maple syrup, not maple-flavored pancake syrup for the best taste.
How To Make Strawberry Energy Balls
Making these delicious strawberry energy balls is so easy. First, start by measuring your ingredients and gathering any necessary tools and equipment. For this recipe, you'll need a parchment-lined baking sheet and a food processor.
- Add all of the ingredients into a blender or food processor, reserving a portion of the coconut for later. Pulse until combined and fairly well blended. It should be able to hold form between your fingers.
- Scoop with 1 tablespoon portion scoop and roll into a perfect ball.
- Place each strawberry energy ball onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This will allow them to fully firm up and enjoy!
Tips and Substitutions
- For a flavor twist, try adding a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or a splash of vanilla extract. These warm aromatics can add dimension to your energy bites and complement the nut butter!
- Toast the coconut in the oven or in a skillet until lightly browned for a sweet and nutty crunch. You can also toast a portion of the coconut and leave the other half raw. Then mix the two for the best of both worlds.
- Make energy bars out of this recipe and store them wrapped individually in parchment paper to prevent sticking together.
- Use peanut butter in place of almond butter, or your favorite nut butter. Look for nut butter without added sugar and use one with minimal ingredients for the best natural flavor.
FAQ Strawberry Energy Balls
Store leftover energy balls in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container.
Energy balls are full of nutrients and while they're sweet, they don't include added granulated sugar. The protein, fat, and oats will help keep you feeling full in between meals. They can be enjoyed as a snack between meals or as a healthy dessert option.
Technically yes, but they taste better fresh. You can freeze energy bites for up to three months in a freezer-safe container for the best taste. Be aware that the texture may change. If you're finding yourself with a lot of leftovers, consider halving the recipe for a smaller yield. Just remember to half every ingredient.
Dates are a stone fruit meaning it's a single seeds surrounded by fleshy fruit, similar to peaches. They're grown on date palm trees. They're dark brown in color and when blended develop a sticky texture that is delicious in baked goods and a variety of desserts.
Strawberry Energy Balls
Equipment
- Food processor or blender
Ingredients
- ½ cup oats
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened coconut
- ¾ cup strawberries
- ½ cup whole almonds
- 5 medjool dates, pits removed
- ¼ cup almond butter
- 2-4 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor. Pulse until combined and fairly well blended.
- Scoop with a tablespoon scoop or portions scoop. Mine were about 1 tablespoon in size.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours. Whatever you don't eat can go in the fridge until you are ready. They hold well for 2-3 days.
Notes
- For a flavor twist, try adding a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or a splash of vanilla extract. These warm aromatics can add dimension to your energy bites and complement the nut butter!
- Toast the coconut in the oven or in a skillet until lightly browned for a sweet and nutty crunch. You can also toast a portion of the coconut and leave the other half raw. Then mix the two for the best of both worlds.
- Make energy bars out of this recipe and store them wrapped individually in parchment paper to prevent sticking together.
- Use peanut butter in place of almond butter, or your favorite nut butter. Look for nut butter without added sugar and use one with minimal ingredients for the best natural flavor.
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