Oh boy, let me tell you about these delicious Monster Cookie Energy Balls! They’re not just any snack; they’re a delightful explosion of flavors and textures that make healthy eating fun! I first stumbled upon this recipe during a lazy afternoon when I was craving something sweet but wanted to keep it nutritious—and boy, did this hit the spot. These little bites of joy are perfect for a quick breakfast on the go, a post-workout snack, or even a sweet treat for your afternoon slump.
The best part? They come together so quickly, and you can customize them to suit your taste buds. I love to make a big batch and keep them in the fridge—snagging one whenever I need a little pick-me-up. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to keep them on hand all the time!
What’s in Monster Cookie Energy Balls?
Oats: Rolled oats are the heart of these energy balls. They provide a lovely chewy texture and are packed with fiber, which helps keep you satisfied longer.
Peanut Butter: A classic ingredient in monster cookies, creamy peanut butter adds flavor and healthy fats. You can use any nut butter you like—almond or cashew also work wonderfully!
Honey or Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance out the savory bits. I often use local honey for its unique flavor!
Chocolate Chips: Because what’s a monster cookie without chocolate? I prefer dark chocolate chips for a guilt-free treat, but go with what makes your heart happy!
M&Ms: Adding a fun crunch factor, I love throwing in some colorful M&Ms. They add a delightful pop of color and a bit of nostalgia too!
Chia seeds: These little seeds might be tiny, but they pack a nutritional punch! They add a lovely crunch and boost the fiber and omega-3 content of the energy balls.
Is Monster Cookie Energy Balls Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! These energy balls are packed with wholesome ingredients, and they can be quite nutritious if made right.
Oats provide essential vitamins and minerals, including iron and B vitamins, while also being an excellent source of soluble fiber, known to keep your cholesterol levels in check.
Peanut Butter, on the other hand, is a great source of protein and healthy fats, giving you that sustained energy boost. And let’s not forget about the added sweetness from honey or maple syrup, which is much healthier than refined sugar.
However, it’s good to keep portions in mind. While these bites are healthy, they still have calories, especially with the addition of chocolate chips and M&Ms. Moderation is key, my friends!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup M&Ms
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– Optional: Pinch of salt (to enhance flavor)
This recipe yields about 12-15 energy balls, depending on how big you make them.
How to Make Monster Cookie Energy Balls?
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, peanut butter, and honey (or maple syrup). Stir until combined and you have a nice sticky mixture.
2. Add in the chocolate chips, M&Ms, and chia seeds. If you’re using salt, sprinkle that in now too.
3. Mix everything together really well. Use your hands if you need to; it’s the fun part!
4. Once everything is well combined, use your hands to roll out small balls of the mixture—about 1 inch in diameter works well.
5. Place your energy balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
6. Enjoy them right away, or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks!
Tips & Twists for Monster Cookie Goodness!
– **Mix it Up:** Don’t hesitate to substitute ingredients based on what you have! Want a nut-free version? Try sunflower seed butter!
– **Add-ins Galore:** Feel free to throw in any extras like shredded coconut, dried fruit, or even protein powder for a little extra boost.
– **Doughy Goodness:** If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even reserve some of the chocolate chips and M&Ms to top the balls before chilling.
I hope you give these Monster Cookie Energy Balls a try! They’re not just tasty; they’re a fun and nutritious way to treat yourself without the guilt. Once you take that first bite, you might find they become your go-to snack! Let me know how they turn out—I’m always excited to hear about your kitchen adventures!
