01 -
In a medium bowl, gather your rolled oats, chia seeds, and ground flaxseed meal. Give them a good stir with a spoon or spatula. I always make sure everything's evenly mixed here, because nobody wants a clump of just flaxseed in their bite, right? It just sets the stage for our delicious Quick Peanut Butter Energy Balls.
02 -
Now, in a separate, smaller bowl, measure out your natural peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Whisk them together until they're smooth and well combined. This is where the magic starts to happen, you'll feel the stickiness building, and honestly, the smell is already divine! Don't worry if it's super thick, that's what we want.
03 -
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry oat mixture. Now, get ready to get your hands dirty, or use a sturdy spatula. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined and a sticky dough forms. I usually start with a spoon, then switch to my hands because it's just easier to get all those dry bits incorporated. It might seem a little crumbly at first, but keep pressing and mixing!
04 -
If you're adding mini chocolate chips, now's the time! Gently fold them into the mixture. You want them distributed evenly throughout your Quick Peanut Butter Energy Balls. I’ve definitely overmixed before and ended up with crushed chips, so be gentle! This step makes these little treats extra special.
05 -
Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms into a ball. They should be firm enough to hold their shape, but still a little soft. If they're too sticky, pop the mixture in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. I once rolled them way too big, and they were like jawbreakers, so stick to about an inch!
06 -
If you're using shredded coconut, spread it out on a shallow plate. Roll each peanut butter energy ball in the coconut, pressing gently to coat it evenly. This adds a lovely texture and looks so pretty! I sometimes skip this when I'm in a rush, but it definitely elevates the snack.
07 -
Place the finished Quick Peanut Butter Energy Balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them into the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This step is crucial, trust me! They'll be much easier to handle and taste even better chilled.