Peanut Butter-Oat Energy Balls

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Sweet, sticky dates act as the glue for these no-bake energy balls. Perfect for hikes or during sports, this healthy snack travels well.

Prep Time:
15 mins
Additional Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
30 mins
Servings:
12
Yield:
12 balls

Nutrition Notes

Are Dates Good for You?

Dates are packed with naturally occurring sugar that provides energy for your busy day. They also provide fiber and antioxidants that have been shown to protect your heart and blood vessels and may reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

Is Peanut Butter Healthy?

Peanuts and peanut butter are packed with heart-healthy fats, protein, fiber and other essential nutrients, including magnesium and folate. The fat-protein-fiber combo is great for keeping you full longer. Peanuts also provide antioxidants and may help balance blood sugar.

Tips from the Test Kitchen

What Type of Dates Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, use Medjool dates, which are the largest and sweetest date variety. Look for them in the produce department or near other dried fruits. You can also use Deglet Noor dates, which are smaller and not as sweet as Medjool dates.

Can I Swap in a Different Nut Butter?

Yes, you can! We recommend using nut butters made with just nuts and salt (or no salt).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Peanut Butter-Oat Energy Balls Ahead?

Yes, you can make them ahead and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Additional reporting by Carrie Myers and Jan Valdez

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup chopped Medjool dates

  • ½ cup rolled oats

  • ¼ cup natural peanut butter

  • Chia seeds for garnish

Directions

  1. Soak dates in a small bowl of hot water for 5 to 10 minutes. Drain.

  2. Combine the soaked dates, oats and peanut butter in a food processor and process until very finely chopped. Roll into 12 balls (a scant tablespoon each). Garnish with chia seeds, if desired. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes and up to 1 week.

    Peanut Butter-Oat Energy Balls

Equipment

Food processor

Originally appeared: EatingWell.com, April 2017

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

73 Calories
3g Fat
10g Carbs
2g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 12
Serving Size 1 ball
Calories 73
% Daily Value *
Total Carbohydrate 10g 4%
Dietary Fiber 1g 5%
Total Sugars 6g
Protein 2g 4%
Total Fat 3g 4%
Saturated Fat 1g 3%
Vitamin A 1IU 0%
Folate 3mcg 1%
Sodium 18mg 1%
Calcium 4mg 0%
Iron 0mg 2%
Magnesium 13mg 3%
Potassium 72mg 2%

Nutrition information is calculated by a registered dietitian using an ingredient database but should be considered an estimate.

* Daily Values (DVs) are the recommended amounts of nutrients to consume each day. Percent Daily Value (%DV) found on nutrition labels tells you how much a serving of a particular food or recipe contributes to each of those total recommended amounts. Per the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the daily value is based on a standard 2,000 calorie diet. Depending on your calorie needs or if you have a health condition, you may need more or less of particular nutrients. (For example, it’s recommended that people following a heart-healthy diet eat less sodium on a daily basis compared to those following a standard diet.)

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a special diet for medical reasons, be sure to consult with your primary care provider or a registered dietitian to better understand your personal nutrition needs.

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