Description
Energy-boosting, super filling and yummy to the max. These no-bake oat chocolate balls combine oats, coconut oil, cashews, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and honey for an easy and delicious snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (dry) old-fashioned rolled oats (use certified gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, softened or slightly melted
- 1/2 cup cashews (raw or roasted), roughly chopped or whole
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or vegan chocolate chips)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/3 cup honey or agave nectar (for vegan)
Instructions
- Melt Chocolate: Place the chocolate chips in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals at 50% power, stirring well after each interval, until completely melted and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: To the bowl with the melted chocolate, add the rolled oats, softened coconut oil, cashews, shredded coconut, and honey (or agave nectar).
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir all ingredients together with a spatula or wooden spoon until thoroughly mixed and everything is well coated with the chocolate and peanut butter mixture.
- Chill Mixture: Cover the bowl and let the mixture chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to roll into balls.
- Roll into Balls: Once chilled, scoop out portions of the mixture (about 1-1.5 tablespoons each) and roll them between your hands into balls of your desired size.
- Store: Place the finished balls in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 1 week.
Notes
- Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats provide the best chewy texture. Quick oats can be used but may result in a softer ball. Use certified gluten-free oats if necessary.
- Coconut Oil: If your coconut oil is solid, melt it slightly before adding. Refined coconut oil has less coconut flavor than virgin coconut oil.
- Cashews: You can substitute other nuts like almonds or pecans, or use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
- Chocolate Chips: Use semi-sweet, dark, or milk chocolate chips. For a vegan option, ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
- Sweetener: Honey or agave nectar works well. Adjust the amount slightly to your preference.
- Chilling: Don’t skip chilling the mixture; it makes rolling much less sticky. If the mixture is too hard after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. If your hands get sticky while rolling, lightly moisten them with water.
- Optional Add-ins: Consider adding chia seeds, flax seeds, or protein powder for an extra nutritional boost.
- Storage: These balls are best stored in the refrigerator to maintain their shape and freshness.