Introduction
Looking for a delicious and nutritious snack that gives you a boost of energy? These Monster Cookie Energy Balls are just the ticket! Packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, peanut butter, and flaxseed, they offer a delightful crunch with a sweet twist from chocolate chips and candy-coated M&M’s. Perfect for busy mornings, post-workout refuels, or a simple afternoon snack, these no-bake treats are incredibly easy to whip up and sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup M&M’s or other candy-coated chocolates
- 1/2 cup ground flaxseed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (including refrigeration)
Yield: 20 energy balls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground flaxseed, and salt. This hearty base will give your energy balls a wonderful texture.
- Add in the peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. The combination creates a rich and creamy mixture that will bind everything together.
- Mix everything together until well combined. You can use a spatula or even your hands — let that energy flow!
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and M&M’s, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture for sweet surprise in every bite.
- Use your hands to roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. It’s a fun hands-on process that makes these treats even more special!
- Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they have a little space between each one.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up. This step is key to achieving the perfect bite-size treat!
- Once firm, transfer the energy balls to an airtight container for storage. They can be kept in the fridge for up to a week — if they last that long!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize these energy balls to your liking! You can substitute almond butter for peanut butter or add in your favorite nuts or dried fruits. If you’re aiming for a lower sugar option, you can omit the brown sugar or adjust the honey and maple syrup to suit your taste. These treats are all about balancing flavors and textures—have fun with it!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe employs a simple no-bake technique, making it a perfect choice for those hot summer days when you want to keep the oven off. Mixing ingredients by hand allows for easy customization, and the refrigeration step ensures a satisfying firmness. Rolling the balls by hand also gives them a homemade charm, highlighting the love and care you put into making them.
FAQ
Can I freeze these energy balls?
Absolutely! These energy balls freeze wonderfully. Just place them in a single layer in an airtight container, and they can last up to three months. Just pull them out when you need a quick snack!
What can I use instead of M&M’s?
You can substitute M&M’s with any candy-coated chocolate pieces, raisins, or dried cranberries for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
These Monster Cookie Energy Balls are not just a treat; they’re a joy to make and eat! With their rich flavors and delightful textures, they offer a fun and nutritious way to fuel your day. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack on the go or a delightful addition to lunch boxes, they’re sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, get mixing, and enjoy every bite of these homemade goodies!