Baked Oat and Fruit Energy Balls

Baked Oat and Fruit Energy Balls

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:

1. 1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, raisins, cranberries, chopped nuts, sesame seeds, and baking powder.
   3. 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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. 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.
   3. 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.