Energy Balls With Oats And Peanut Butter

Ingredients

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup natural peanut butter – stirred until smooth
• 0.5 cup honey
• 0.5 cup ground flaxseed
• 0.33 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 0.25 tsp fine sea salt

Instructions

1. Stir the peanut butter well so it is smooth and fully combined, especially if the oil has separated.
2. In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, ground flaxseed, mini chocolate chips, and fine sea salt, and stir to evenly distribute.
3. Add the peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract to the bowl with the dry ingredients.
4. Use a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon to mix until everything is thoroughly combined and the mixture is evenly moistened, 2–3 minutes; the mixture should feel sticky and hold together when pressed.
5. If the mixture seems too dry and crumbly to hold its shape, mix in 1–2 tbsp additional peanut butter or honey; if it seems too wet and does not hold a ball, sprinkle in 2–3 tbsp more oats and mix again.
6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture until slightly firmer and easier to handle, about 20–30 minutes.
7. Line a baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper.
8. Scoop the chilled mixture into portions of about 1 tbsp each and roll between your palms to form compact balls about 1 inch in diameter.
9. Arrange the energy balls in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or plate.
10. Refrigerate the energy balls until set and firm to the touch, 30–60 minutes.
11. Serve the energy balls chilled or at cool room temperature, and store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.