Energy balls and bites are simple and delicious and allow you to get creative with ingredients. They’re one of our favorite lunch (or snack) hacks for workers because they’re healthy and save you time. If you’re overwhelmed by the possibilities and not sure where to start, pumpkin energy balls, oatmeal protein balls, and blueberry-lemon energy balls are a few of our favorite flavor combos, but the possibilities are endless!
UTHH’s best energy balls and bites recipes
No-bake energy bites
These no-bake energy bites from Gimme Some Oven are a classic. Packed with oats, peanut butter, coconut, and flax seed, they’re the perfect nutritionally dense, fiber-packed recipe with just a hint of sweetness from chocolate! They’re quick to put together and make for a satisfying addition to your lunch box or a mid-morning treat to keep you fueled until your next meal.
Pumpkin energy balls
While pumpkin-flavored-everything season may have passed, there’s no reason to pass up these pumpkin energy balls. Dates are the primary source of sweetness in this recipe, helping to provide sustained energy without sending blood sugar levels through the roof—you’ll also need a food processor for this one. It’s a “throw everything in and hit start” kind of easy, flavorful, and nutritious cooking—simplicity at its best.
Date and nut energy balls
These date and nut energy balls from Love and Lemons twist the classic peanut butter and honey combo by swapping it for dates and nuts. The dates provide fiber and a hint of sweetness, while the nuts offer protein and healthy fats. Note that this recipe also requires a food processor.
Pro tip: Energy balls are easily frozen! Double the recipe, and keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. They dethaw fast for convenient snacking!
Blueberry-lemon energy balls
These blueberry-lemon energy balls are another flavor-packed option made simple with your food processor. The walnuts, dates, and blueberries make them diabetes-friendly and smart for heart health. They’re also dairy, egg, and gluten-free, so these could be a great option if you have allergies.
Oatmeal protein balls
No food processor? No problem! These oatmeal protein energy balls from The Healthy Maven are simple, delicious, and ideal for those looking to increase their protein intake. You could use your standard whey protein or swap for a veggie-based protein powder—and any flavor works! The chia seeds are a great source of fiber, and natural peanut butter (unsweetened) provides a bit of protein and a good dose of healthy fat.
They’re entirely no-bake and will keep you satisfied for hours. But the best part? You probably have all of these ingredients lying around your kitchen!
Ginger energy balls
If you’re looking for an option that’s more of a “cookie,” these ginger energy balls from Well Plated are perfect. With healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber, they’re comforting and nutritious. The flaxseed meal, almond butter, and sesame seeds are also great for your skin. These are win-win-win. They’re no-bake, keep in the freezer for up to three months, and are the ideal fusion of satisfying, simple, and tasty. This recipe also offers substitutions if some ingredients aren’t to your taste.
Cinnamon apple energy balls
Two Peas And Their Pod have recreated a classic combo—cinnamon apple energy balls. No fancy appliances or baking are required, and they’re packed with fiber and protein-rich seeds and a whack of spices to amplify the flavor. The ground flaxseed and chia add extra protein and fiber and are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
Note: For this recipe, you will need dried or freeze-dried apples, so plan ahead!
Chocolate hazelnut energy balls
Our list’s ultimate “dessert option” goes to these chocolate hazelnut energy balls from Eating Well. These will hit the spot if you’re a Nutella fan like us. This recipe is still diabetes-friendly, low-sodium, and a heart-healthy choice to curb your mid-day sweet tooth health-consciously. This recipe requires a food processor, but with only five ingredients, you get all the indulgence with none of the hard work.
Mocha energy bites
Calling all coffee lovers! These mocha energy bites from The Kiwi Country Girl will put a little more pep into your step and keep you wide-eyed and focused on the job. The walnuts are a brain-healthy choice, and the peanut butter and coconut oil are a great source of healthy fats. The sweetness in this recipe comes from honey, but for vegans, maple syrup can easily be substituted.
One recipe, 10 flavor combos
As a last hoorah to energy balls and bites, we had to include the ultimate adaptable energy ball recipe to please picky eaters. This recipe from Get Inspired Every Day is packed with grains and protein and is entirely no-bake. This customized recipe lets you choose between healthy fats and fiber options and control your sodium intake! The best part is that it gives you 10 flavor combos, so you can use this recipe repeatedly without ever getting bored.
Why we love energy balls/bites
While they may not be the main course for your lunch break, energy balls and bites make the perfect addition to any lunch box. Here are a few reasons why.
- They’re quick to make. They’re almost always no-bake to save you time in the kitchen.
- They’re easy. No culinary expertise is required.
- They’re nutritionally dense. Pack them with vitamins/minerals, protein, and fiber.
- You can customize them to suit your flavor preferences or adapt if you have food allergies.
- They’re easily frozen. Make a big batch, and you’ll be set at work for weeks.
Energy balls and bites are obviously favorites for the nutrition geeks at UTHH, but we want to know—what’s your favorite? Drop us a comment and let us know! And don’t forget to subscribe for more wellness tips, news, product info, and more.
