Apple Pie Energy Balls
Apple Pie Energy Balls are a simple, tasty snack that brings together the sweet flavors of apple and cinnamon in a bite-sized treat. These little balls mix oats, dried apples,…
Tip: save now, cook later.Apple Pie Energy Balls are a simple, tasty snack that brings together the sweet flavors of apple and cinnamon in a bite-sized treat. These little balls mix oats, dried apples, a bit of honey, and warm spices to create a chewy, naturally sweet energy boost that’s easy to grab on the go.
I love making these because they remind me of the cozy feeling of apple pie without all the fuss of baking. They’re perfect for when I want something quick and satisfying, especially before or after a workout. Plus, they’re super easy to customize—sometimes I add a handful of nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra kick.
My favorite way to enjoy these energy balls is by packing a few in my bag for long days out or even to keep at my desk when I need a little pick-me-up. They’re a nice little reminder of fall flavors any time of the year, and everyone I’ve shared them with loves how tasty and filling they are without feeling heavy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These add texture and help hold the balls together. If you need a gluten-free option, be sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
Dried Apples: They bring that apple flavor and chewiness. If you can’t find dried apples, diced fresh apples can work, but the balls won’t last as long.
Pitted Dates: Dates act as a natural sweetener and binder. You can swap them with dried apricots or raisins if you prefer.
Almond Butter: This adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture. Feel free to try peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter if you want a different taste or need a nut-free version.
Honey or Maple Syrup: They give a touch of extra sweetness and help with the texture. Maple syrup is great for a vegan option.
Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger): These warm spices are the heart of the apple pie flavor. Adjust amounts based on your taste. If you like, add a pinch of cloves for more depth.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sticky Dough to Roll?
Getting the right dough consistency is key for shaping these energy balls smoothly.
- Start pulsing the oats, dried apples, and dates until chopped but not too fine—this helps give texture.
- Add nut butter and sweetener gradually, then pulse to combine.
- If the dough feels crumbly or dry, add a bit more nut butter or a teaspoon of water to help it bind.
- If it feels too wet or sticky, add a sprinkle of oats to absorb excess moisture.
- Once the dough holds together well when pressed, scoop and roll with your hands firmly but gently to form smooth balls.
- Chilling the balls for at least 30 minutes helps them firm up and makes handling easier.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Food processor – perfect for chopping oats, dried apples, and dates quickly and mixing everything evenly.
- Bowl – handy for mixing or holding ingredients if you don’t want to use the processor for everything.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredient amounts just right.
- Spatula – helps scrape down the sides of the food processor so nothing gets wasted.
- Baking sheet or plate – to place energy balls on while chilling in the fridge.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap dried apples for dried cranberries or cherries for a tart twist that still works well with cinnamon.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and healthy fats.
- Mix in shredded coconut for a bit of tropical flavor and chewy texture.
- Stir in a scoop of protein powder if you want a post-workout energy boost.
Apple Pie Energy Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup dried apples, chopped finely or processed
- ½ cup pitted dates
- ¼ cup almond butter (or any nut butter)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons chia seeds or flax seeds for added nutrition
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe only takes about 10 minutes to prepare and mix everything together. After that, you’ll chill the energy balls in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up. Perfect for a quick and healthy snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Put the oats, dried apples, and dates into a food processor. Pulse them until they’re chopped up well but still have a bit of texture—this helps give the energy balls a nice chew.
2. Add Flavor and Binder:
Add the almond butter, honey or maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the processor. Pulse everything together until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough.
3. Adjust Texture If Needed:
If your dough feels too dry and crumbly, add a teaspoon of water or a little more nut butter to help it stick. If it’s too wet, add a little more oats. You want a dough that holds together when pressed.
4. Optional Seeds:
If you want extra nutrition, toss in chia seeds or flax seeds and pulse just a few times to mix them in.
5. Shape the Energy Balls:
Use a tablespoon to scoop the mixture and roll it between your hands until you get small smooth balls.
6. Chill and Store:
Place your energy balls on a plate or baking sheet and pop them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze if you want them to last longer.
Can I Use Fresh Apples Instead of Dried?
Yes, but fresh apples have more moisture, which may make the mixture too wet. If you use fresh apples, finely chop them and reduce any added liquids. Keep in mind that energy balls made with fresh apples should be eaten within a couple of days and stored in the fridge.
Can I Substitute Nut Butter for a Seed Butter?
Absolutely! Sunflower seed butter or tahini work well as nut-free alternatives. They provide similar creaminess and binding properties, so just swap them in equal amounts.
How Should I Store Apple Pie Energy Balls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge before eating.
Can I Add Protein Powder or Other Mix-Ins?
Yes! Adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder can give these a boost. You can also mix in chopped nuts, seeds, or shredded coconut to change the texture and flavor to your liking.
