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These Trail Mix Energy Balls are the ultimate grab-and-go snack for anyone seeking a nutritious, satisfying bite.
What makes them special is the no-bake simplicity paired with powerhouse ingredients—oats, flaxseed, chia seeds, and trail mix—creating a snack that’s both functional and delicious.
With 5g of plant-based protein and 3g of fiber per serving, these bites help curb hunger and support digestion, making them ideal for mid-morning slumps or post-workout fuel.
They’re naturally low in saturated fat, thanks to the use of creamy peanut butter and seeds, and the sweetness comes from honey, keeping added sugars to a minimum.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for a busy week, looking for a lunchbox-friendly option, or just need a quick boost between meals, these energy balls are easy to whip up, store well, and offer lasting energy in each bite.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
KitchenAid Stand Mixer with Paddle Attachment
Effortlessly mixes thick, sticky ingredients like peanut butter, oats, and honey. It’s a lifesaver for energy ball prep and versatile for cookie dough, bread, and more.
OXO Good Grips Medium Cookie Scoop
Ideal for portioning out uniform 1–2 tablespoon-sized balls. Ensures consistent size for even nutrition and a polished, professional look.
Cuisinart Mini Food Processor
Perfect for chopping large nuts in trail mix if you prefer smaller pieces. Also great for making sauces, pestos, or grinding seeds.
Rubbermaid Brilliance Airtight Food Storage Container
Keeps your energy balls fresh in the fridge for up to two weeks. Crystal clear, leak-proof, and stackable—ideal for fridge or freezer storage.
Silicone Baking Mat or Tray Liner
Prevents sticking while rolling or resting energy balls. Reusable, easy to clean, and great for baking or candy-making projects too.
Trail Mix Energy Balls
Equipment
- 1 Stand Mixer with Beater Blade – for efficient and even mixing
- 1 Mixing Bowl (if mixing by hand) – alternative to stand mixer
- 1 Cookie Scoop (1–2 tablespoon size) – to shape the energy balls
- 1 Airtight Container – to store the bites in fridge or freezer
- 1 Silicone Mat or Baking Tray – to roll or set the balls easily
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ¼ cup flaxseed meal
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch sea salt
- ½ cup + 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup honey
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¾ cup trail mix your favorite blend
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, add the rolled oats, flaxseed meal, chia seeds, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. Gently stir the dry ingredients to distribute everything evenly—this ensures the flavors and textures are well-balanced throughout.
- Add the Wet Mixture: Add the creamy peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Using a stand mixer with a beater paddle (or a sturdy spoon if mixing by hand), mix everything on low speed until a sticky, cohesive dough forms. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure no dry pockets remain.
- Fold in the Trail Mix: Once the base mixture is smooth and blended, add your trail mix. Stir gently until the nuts, dried fruits, and any extras are evenly distributed. If your trail mix contains large nuts, you can roughly chop them before adding for a more uniform texture.
- Shape into Energy Balls: Scoop out about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it between your hands to form compact, bite-sized balls. Place them on a lined tray or plate as you go.
- Chill and Store: Transfer the finished energy balls to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks for a firm texture, or freeze for up to 3 months if you're prepping ahead.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite trail mix: Whether it’s loaded with dried berries, dark chocolate chips, sunflower seeds, or mixed nuts, feel free to use whatever blend you love most.
- For smoother bites: Roughly chop any large nuts or dried fruits before mixing them in to ensure a more even distribution and easier rolling.
- Make it vegan: Swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to make the recipe completely plant-based.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a double batch and freeze half—you’ll always have a nutritious snack ready to go!
- Sticky hands tip: Lightly dampen your palms or coat them with a bit of cooking spray to make rolling the balls easier.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Texture
The key to achieving perfectly balanced energy balls lies in the ratio of dry to wet ingredients.
If your mixture feels too dry or crumbly, add a little more peanut butter or a drizzle of honey to help it bind.
On the flip side, if it’s too sticky to roll, a tablespoon or two of extra oats will help absorb the excess moisture.
Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment ensures that thick ingredients like peanut butter and honey blend smoothly into the oats and seeds.
For a better bite and smoother texture, consider chopping your trail mix—especially if it contains large nuts or dried fruits.
This step distributes flavors more evenly and makes the energy balls easier to roll and eat.
Lastly, slightly dampening your hands or spritzing them with oil before rolling helps prevent sticking and keeps the shaping process mess-free.
Creative and Healthy Serving Ideas
These energy balls are wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways beyond just a snack.
They’re perfect as a pre- or post-workout boost, thanks to the blend of complex carbs, protein, and healthy fats.
Serve them as part of a balanced breakfast plate alongside Greek yogurt and fruit for a satisfying start to your day.
They also make a great addition to lunchboxes for both kids and adults, offering a wholesome alternative to processed snack bars.
If you’re entertaining or want a fun presentation, stack them on a platter and drizzle with melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of shredded coconut.
For a more indulgent treat, pair with a warm cup of coffee or a chilled almond milk latte.
Best Ways to Store and Freeze
Proper storage is crucial to maintain the freshness and texture of these no-bake bites.
Once rolled, place the energy balls in an airtight container, ideally in a single layer or separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking.
They keep best in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, where the cool temperature helps maintain their shape and firmness.
If you want to make a big batch for long-term use, these bites freeze beautifully.
Simply store them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll last up to three months.
When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge for a firmer, chewier texture.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered
1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats can be used in place of rolled oats, but the texture will be softer and less chewy. Rolled oats offer a more substantial bite and better structure for energy balls.
2. What kind of trail mix works best?
Any trail mix you enjoy will work, but aim for a blend with a mix of textures and flavors—like nuts, dried fruits, and a touch of sweetness (e.g., dark chocolate chips or yogurt-covered raisins). Avoid overly salted or sugar-coated varieties for a healthier result.
3. Can I make these nut-free?
Absolutely! Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and choose a nut-free trail mix. The result will still be rich in healthy fats and protein but safe for nut-free households or schools.
4. How do I keep the balls from falling apart?
If your mixture is too dry or crumbly, add a bit more peanut butter or honey to improve stickiness. Press and roll the mixture firmly between your palms to help it hold together.
5. Are these energy balls good for meal prep?
Yes, they’re an excellent meal-prep snack. Make a large batch, freeze half, and you’ll have a healthy option on hand for busy days, workouts, or afternoon cravings.
This recipe is inspired by twopeasandtheirpod and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.