When I was thinking about energy-packed ingredients for my amazing energy balls, my mind immediately went to one of my go-to snacks- peanuts. Apparently, I’m really not alone in that thought.
Did you know? 60% of Canadians report that they regularly snack of peanuts, making them the second most preferred snacking food after potato chips.
They’ve also got a ton of important nutrients like folate, vitamin E, magnesium, zinc and selenium, and even are natural sources of plant sterols, which may have some cholesterol lowering properties.
This recipe for gluten free energy balls could not be simpler to put together, yet it makes healthy snacking so much quicker, easier and healthier! They’ve got a ton of fibre, protein and healthy fats with no added sugars, artificial sweeteners or gluten!
If I pop a few of these energy balls in my gym bag, I know that I’ll have the energy to power through the toughest workouts without the guilt of some of those artificially sweetened, preservative-loaded, super expensive bars!
Feel free to play around with the flavour profile as well in these energy balls. You can change the dried fruit or even add chocolate to make them a little more sweet.
If you’re looking for some more great snacking ideas, check out the PeanutBureau.ca website for delicious nutty goodness here!
Gluten Free Energy Balls with Peanuts & Cherries!
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry roasted lightly seasoned peanuts
- 1 1/4 cup dates roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cherries
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
- 2 tsp ground flax seeds
- 1/2 cup freeze dried cherries
Instructions
- Add everything to a food processor and pulse until smooth and sticky.
- Roll into 20 balls, set on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for an hour before transferring to a freezer bag or container. Store in the freezer or fridge and pull a few out at a time for a quick snack.
Nutrition
Disclaimer: This recipe was developed in partnership with Peanut Bureau, however, as always, all opinions are genuine.
Updated on October 23rd, 2020
Abbey Sharp is a Registered Dietitian (RD), regulated by the Ontario College of Dietitians. She is a mom, YouTuber, Blogger, award winning cookbook author, media coach specializing in food and nutrition influencers, and a frequent contributor to national publications like Healthline and on national broadcast TV shows.
Sara says
I want a bowl!! need to make 🙂