Healthy Pumpkin Seed & Cranberry Energy Balls Recipe
Introduction
These Healthy Pumpkin Seed & Cranberry Energy Balls are a perfect on-the-go snack packed with wholesome ingredients. Combining nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, they offer a satisfying balance of natural sweetness and crunch. Simple to make and no baking required, they’re ideal for quick energy anytime.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (sweetened or unsweetened to taste)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (pure, Grade A amber color for best flavor)
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter (all-natural preferred)
- 1 cup coconut flakes (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds
- 3/4 cup rolled oats (gluten-free)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, dried cranberries, coconut flakes, raw pumpkin seeds, and sliced almonds. Stir until the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Step 2: Add the creamy peanut butter and maple syrup to the dry mixture. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mix thoroughly, ensuring the wet ingredients coat all the dry ingredients evenly. Adjust the texture by adding more oats if too wet, or extra peanut butter if too dry.
- Step 3: Shape the mixture into balls or bars as desired. For firmer energy bites, chill them in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving. Otherwise, enjoy immediately as a healthy snack.
Tips & Variations
- Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if preferred or for a different flavor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract for extra warmth and aroma.
- Try mixing in chia seeds or flaxseeds for added nutrition and texture.
- Use unsweetened dried cranberries and adjust maple syrup to control sweetness.
Storage
Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They also freeze well—just thaw in the fridge before eating. If refrigerated, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying to soften slightly.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Yes, feel free to substitute sliced almonds with walnuts, pecans, or cashews depending on your taste or what you have on hand.
Are these energy balls suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely. Just be sure to use gluten-free rolled oats to keep the recipe gluten-free.
PrintHealthy Pumpkin Seed & Cranberry Energy Balls Recipe
These Healthy Pumpkin Seed & Cranberry Energy Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack made with wholesome ingredients like gluten-free rolled oats, dried cranberries, raw pumpkin seeds, sliced almonds, creamy peanut butter, pure maple syrup, and unsweetened coconut flakes. They are easy to prepare, require no cooking, and provide a perfect energy boost for on-the-go moments or afternoon cravings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 energy balls 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3/4 cup gluten-free rolled oats
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (sweetened or unsweetened to taste)
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter (all-natural preferred)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (Grade A amber color for best flavor)
Instructions
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add 3/4 cup gluten-free rolled oats, 1/2 cup dried cranberries, 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes, 1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds, and 1/4 cup sliced almonds. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined and evenly distributed.
- Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: Add 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter and 1/4 cup pure maple syrup to the bowl with the dry mixture. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mix thoroughly, ensuring the wet ingredients are evenly worked throughout. Adjust the mixture’s consistency if needed by adding more oats if too wet, or a little extra peanut butter if too dry.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once fully mixed, shape the mixture into energy balls or bars, or simply scoop out portions as a snack. Optionally, chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm up the bites for easier handling and improved texture.
Notes
- Use gluten-free rolled oats if dietary restrictions require it.
- Adjust sweetness by choosing sweetened or unsweetened dried cranberries according to taste.
- Chilling the energy balls before serving helps them hold shape better.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
- For added texture or flavor, feel free to substitute almonds with other nuts or seeds.
Keywords: pumpkin seed energy balls, cranberry snacks, healthy energy balls, no bake snacks, gluten-free snack, peanut butter energy balls, quick healthy snacks
