Baked Oat and Fruit Energy Balls

Searching for a healthy snack that will satisfy your sweet taste and keep you going throughout the day? The ideal grab-and-go choice are these baked oat and fruit energy balls! Rich in nutrient-dense seeds, naturally sweet dried fruits, and robust oats, they provide a well-balanced combination of fiber, good fats, and energy-boosting carbohydrates. These soft and chewy bites are perfect for a hectic morning, a post-workout snack, or a guilt-free treat. They’re tasty, invigorating, and simple to prepare.

Ingredients:

1 cup rolled oats (100g)

10g raisins

25g cranberries

40g nuts (chopped)

1 tablespoon sesame seeds

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 banana (mashed)

100g yogurt

Water (as needed to reach the right consistency)

Coconut flakes (for rolling the balls)

Directions:

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, raisins, cranberries, chopped nuts, sesame seeds, and baking powder.

Prepare the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mash the banana and mix in the yogurt. Add this to the dry ingredients and stir to combine. If the mixture is too dry, add a small amount of water until you reach a sticky but formable consistency.

Shape the mixture into balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each ball in coconut flakes to coat the outside.

Bake: Place the balls on the lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.

Cool and serve: Let the balls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a healthy snack or breakfast treat!

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy them as a quick breakfast on the go.

Serve with a drizzle of honey or nut butter for extra flavor.

Pair with a smoothie or a cup of coffee for a filling snack.

Cooking Tips:

You can swap the banana with applesauce or pumpkin puree if you want a different flavor.

Feel free to substitute cranberries and raisins with any other dried fruits like chopped dates or apricots.

For a crunchier texture, toast the nuts before adding them to the mix.

Nutritional Benefits:

High in Fiber: Thanks to the oats, raisins, and cranberries, these energy balls support healthy digestion.

Rich in Healthy Fats: Nuts and sesame seeds provide essential fatty acids that are beneficial for heart health.

Natural Sweetness: The banana and dried fruits naturally sweeten the recipe, avoiding the need for added sugars.

Protein Boost: The yogurt adds a source of protein, making these energy balls a balanced snack.

Dietary Information:

Vegetarian

Can be made dairy-free by using plant-based yogurt.

Gluten-Free (if using certified gluten-free oats)

Storage:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Refrigerate for up to a week.

Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to bring back the crisp texture.