Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These energy balls combine the rich texture of cottage cheese with the natural sweetness of banana and the crunch of walnuts and chocolate chips. They’re easy to make, require no baking, and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. With a balanced blend of nutrients, these energy balls are perfect for anyone looking for a snack that’s both tasty and filling.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese (blended until smooth)
- 1 medium ripe banana (mashed)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Directions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, mashed banana, blended cottage cheese, honey, almond butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Add Mix-Ins: If using, fold in the chopped walnuts and mini chocolate chips.
- Shape into Balls: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls with your hands. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the energy balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Serve and Store: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 12-14 balls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~40 minutes
Storage/Reheating
- Store these energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. If frozen, thaw before enjoying or eat them directly from the freezer for a chilled snack.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese if you prefer, but full-fat cottage cheese gives a creamier texture and richer flavor.
Can I substitute oats with a different grain?
You can try substituting oats with quinoa flakes, ground flaxseed, or even puffed rice for a different texture, though it may slightly change the flavor.
Can I make these energy balls vegan?
Yes! Simply swap the honey for maple syrup, use plant-based almond butter, and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
How do I make these energy balls sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter energy ball, you can add an extra tablespoon of honey or maple syrup or increase the amount of banana.
Can I add other mix-ins like dried fruit or seeds?
Absolutely! Feel free to add dried cranberries, raisins, chia seeds, or even flaxseeds for additional texture and nutrition.
Are these energy balls gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, these energy balls are gluten-free.
Can I use peanut butter instead of almond butter?
Yes, peanut butter works just as well as almond butter in this recipe, providing a slightly different flavor profile.
How do I keep the energy balls from sticking to my hands?
Wet your hands slightly with water or coconut oil before rolling the balls to prevent sticking.
How long do these energy balls last at room temperature?
At room temperature, they should last for about 1-2 days, but refrigeration helps them stay fresh longer.
Can I use a food processor to blend the cottage cheese?
Yes, using a food processor or blender is a great way to achieve a smooth texture for the cottage cheese.
Conclusion
These Cottage Cheese Banana Bread Energy Balls are a fun and nutritious snack that combines the goodness of oats, banana, and cottage cheese. Whether you’re preparing for a busy day or need a quick energy boost, these bite-sized treats are perfect. Enjoy them as a snack on the go, a pre-workout pick-me-up, or even as a healthy dessert. The balance of flavors and textures makes these energy balls irresistible and the ideal option for a wholesome snack!
Print
Cottage Cheese Banana Bread Energy Balls
- Total Time: ~40 minutes
- Yield: About 12-14 energy balls
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Cottage Cheese Banana Bread Energy Balls are a nutritious and delicious snack packed with protein, healthy fats, and natural sweetness. Made with oats, cottage cheese, banana, and a touch of honey or maple syrup, these no-bake energy balls are perfect for a quick snack, pre-workout fuel, or a healthy dessert. Easy to make, they’re an ideal way to stay energized throughout the day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- ½ cup cottage cheese (blended until smooth)
- 1 medium ripe banana (mashed)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, mashed banana, blended cottage cheese, honey, almond butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Add Mix-Ins: If using, fold in the chopped walnuts and mini chocolate chips.
- Shape into Balls: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls with your hands. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the energy balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Serve and Store: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
- To make these energy balls vegan, swap honey for maple syrup, use plant-based almond butter, and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
- Feel free to add other mix-ins such as dried fruit (cranberries, raisins) or seeds (chia seeds, flaxseeds) for more flavor and texture.
- For a sweeter treat, increase the amount of banana or add a bit more honey/maple syrup.
- You can use peanut butter instead of almond butter for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minute
- Category: Snack, Pre-Workout, Healthy
- Method: No-Bake, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
