Baked Oat and Fruit Energy Balls

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.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Easy and Quick: Requires minimal preparation and uses common pantry ingredients.
Healthy: These energy balls are a nutritious, on-the-go snack that’s perfect for any time of day.
Customizable: You can mix and match the dried fruits, nuts, and seeds based on your preferences.
Portable: Great for meal-prepping or packing into lunch boxes for a convenient snack.
Conclusion:
These Baked Oat and Fruit Energy Balls are the ultimate solution for a healthy, homemade snack that can be enjoyed by the whole family. They’re full of natural flavors from fruits and nuts, and the addition of coconut flakes adds a delightful tropical twist. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, these energy balls are sure to keep you satisfied and energized. Plus, they are easily customizable, allowing you to switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly softer. Rolled oats give a chewier bite.
Can I make these energy balls vegan?
Yes, substitute yogurt with a plant-based yogurt like almond or coconut yogurt.
Can I skip the coconut flakes?
Yes, the coconut flakes are optional. You can roll the balls in crushed nuts or seeds instead.
Can I freeze these energy balls?
Absolutely! They freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven.
Can I add protein powder?
Yes, you can add a scoop of protein powder for an extra protein boost. Just adjust the amount of water or yogurt to keep the mixture moist.
Are these energy balls good for kids?
Yes, they are a healthy snack for kids. You can also customize them by using dried fruits that your kids enjoy.
Can I make them nut-free?
Yes, replace the nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
How long do they last?
They last for about 3 days at room temperature, 1 week in the fridge, or 3 months in the freezer.
Can I use Greek yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt works perfectly and adds more creaminess and protein.
What if the mixture is too dry or too wet?
If it’s too dry, add more yogurt or a splash of water. If too wet, add more oats until the mixture holds its shape.