Quick and Healthy Energy Bites: A Delicious Recipe for Busy Lifestyles

Authored by Dr. Kelly Holes-Lewis

Looking for a healthy bite on the go? I’m excited to share a recipe for a quick and healthy energy bite that’s perfect for nourishing your body when you’re on the move. This recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients, providing a nutritious boost whenever you need it. Our Double Chocolate Cherry Nut Energy Balls include rolled oats, peanut butter, cocoa, walnuts, semi-sweet chocolate chips, honey, chia seeds, and flax seeds. Plus, if there’s a nut allergy, you can easily substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and omit the walnuts. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Double Chocolate Cherry Nut Energy Balls

Ingredients:

• ¾ cup old fashioned oats
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1/8 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 teaspoon chia seeds
• 1 teaspoon ground flax seeds
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
• ¼ cup peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 10 cherries, diced

Directions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the oats, cocoa powder, chopped walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds, and mini chocolate chips with a spoon until well blended.
2. Add the peanut butter, honey, and diced cherries to the mixture. Stir until everything is uniformly mixed.
3. Using a teaspoon or a cookie scoop, place portions of the dough into your hand, roll into balls, and place on a tray.
4. Once all the balls are rolled, place the tray into the refrigerator until the balls are cold and stable for handling.

What Makes This a Good Recipe?

Oats:

Oats are incredibly nutritious. They are rich in antioxidants, contain soluble fiber that helps lower cholesterol levels, and can improve blood sugar control. Additionally, oats help you feel full longer, which can aid in weight management.

Peanut Butter:

Peanut butter is a healthy ingredient packed with vitamin E, magnesium, iron, selenium, and vitamin B6. Studies show that consuming nuts and nut butters, including peanut butter, can lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Cocoa Powder:

Cocoa powder is a nutritional powerhouse rich in polyphenols. It can help reduce blood pressure, lower the risk of heart disease, and improve cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Cocoa also supports gut health and can enhance cognitive function.

Walnuts:

Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and contain essential nutrients such as manganese, magnesium, potassium, iron, calcium, sodium, and B vitamins. Health benefits include improved gut and heart health, reduced blood pressure, and enhanced cognitive function. Walnuts can also aid in weight management by regulating appetite.

Chocolate Chips:

Even chocolate chips can promote good health. They contain antioxidants and flavanols that can reduce inflammation and protect against cell damage.

Honey:

Honey is a natural sweetener with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. It can be a healthy addition to many recipes.

Chia Seeds and Flax Seeds:

Chia seeds and flax seeds are rich in magnesium and phosphorus, important for heart health, blood sugar regulation, bone health, mood, and metabolism. They also contain fiber, plant protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, benefiting heart health, digestion, and inflammation. Both seeds are prebiotic foods that support healthy gut bacteria growth.

These Double Chocolate Cherry Nut Energy Balls are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep you energized throughout the day. Try making a batch and enjoy a healthy snack on the go!