Trail Mix Energy Balls
Trail Mix Energy Balls are quick, no-bake snacks loaded with wholesome ingredients like oats, flaxseed, chia seeds, peanut butter, and your favorite trail mix. Rich in plant-based protein and fiber, these bites are perfect for meal prep, post-workout fuel, or satisfying your sweet tooth the healthy way.
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.
