Lime Oat Energy Balls
Lime Oat Energy Balls have become a staple in my kitchen, a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delightful. As I mixed the oats, Medjool dates, and golden raisins in the food processor, the zesty aroma of lime zest filled the room. Lime Oat Energy Balls are not only a breeze to make but also pack a punch of flavor that dances on your taste buds. I remember the first time I made them; the combination of lime juice and sunflower seed butter made my kitchen smell like a citrus grove.
Creating the Perfect Texture
Toasting the oats is a crucial step in making Lime Oat Energy Balls. The gentle heat brings out their nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste. I spread them on a baking sheet and let them toast in the oven while I prepared the other ingredients. The process of blending toasted oats with dates and raisins, then rolling them into little balls, is surprisingly therapeutic. I added just a splash of lime juice until the mixture held together perfectly, then dusted the balls with powdered sugar for a final touch that makes them look as good as they taste.
A Snack for Every Occasion
Whether it’s a quick snack for a busy day or a charming treat for a gathering, Lime Oat Energy Balls are always a hit. They are incredibly versatile and fit seamlessly into a variety of occasions. I often bring them to office lunches or pack them for picnics, where they disappear almost as fast as I can make them. The light, sweet, and tangy flavor of these energy balls complements so many other dishes and makes them a perfect addition to any meal.
Enjoying the Simple Pleasures
Making Lime Oat Energy Balls has become one of my favorite kitchen rituals. It’s incredible how something so easy can be so satisfying. The mix of lime juice, zest, and sunflower seed butter creates a burst of freshness that brightens up any day. Plus, they’re a healthy choice, packed with oats and natural sweetness. Every bite is a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest ones.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Lime Oat Energy Balls
- Toasting Oats: Ensure the oats are spread evenly on the baking sheet for consistent toasting. Keep a close eye on them as they can go from lightly toasted to burnt quickly.
- Soaking Dates: Soaking the Medjool dates makes them easier to chop and blend, ensuring a smoother texture in the energy balls.
- Consistency Check: If the mixture is too dry and crumbly, gradually add more lime juice until the mixture holds together when pressed. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Rolling the Balls: Moisten your hands with water or lightly coat them with a bit of sunflower seed butter to prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
- Powdered Sugar: For a more decorative touch, roll the balls in powdered sugar just before serving. You can also try rolling them in unsweetened coconut flakes or crushed nuts for added texture and flavor.
Lime Oat Energy Balls
Get ready to indulge in these delightful Lime Oat Energy Balls! Packed with the zesty flavor of lime and the wholesome goodness of oats, these bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion. With a hint of sweetness from dates and raisins, and a creamy touch of sunflower seed butter, these energy balls are sure to be a hit. Lightly dusted with powdered sugar, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. Perfect for parties or a quick snack, these treats will disappear in no time!
4
servings15
minutes10
minutes92
kcal25
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
1 cup old-fashioned oats
¾ cup Medjool dates chopped (soaked)
¼ cup golden raisins
1 tablespoon sunflower seed butter
1 teaspoon lime zest (Key lime or Persian lime)
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon sea salt
2 to 3 tablespoons lime juice (Key lime or Persian lime)
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Alternative Ingredients:
Rolled oats can be replaced with quick oats.
Medjool dates can be substituted with dried figs.
Golden raisins can be swapped with regular raisins or dried cranberries.
Sunflower seed butter can be replaced with almond butter or peanut butter.
Lime zest can be substituted with lemon zest.
Powdered sugar can be replaced with finely granulated pure cane sugar.
Directions
- Toasting Oats – Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the oats evenly on a baking sheet and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes until they are lightly toasted.
- Processing Ingredients – In a food processor, pulse the toasted oats until they are coarsely chopped. Add the chopped dates, golden raisins, sunflower seed butter, lime zest, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and 2 tablespoons of lime juice. Pulse until the mixture starts to hold together.
- Forming Balls – If the mixture is too dry, add up to 1 tablespoon more of lime juice. Spoon out 12 portions of the mixture (about 4 teaspoons each) onto waxed paper. Moisten your hands with water and roll each portion into a ball.
- Storing and Serving – Place the formed balls in an airtight container and refrigerate until you are ready to serve them. Just before serving, roll each ball in powdered sugar for a light dusting.
Equipment
- baking sheet
- food processor
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 92kcal
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Fat: 1.2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 68mg
- Potassium: 0mg
- Fiber: 1.9g
- Sugar: 10g
- Vitamin A: 0IU
- Vitamin C: 0mg
- Calcium: 0mg
- Iron: 0mg
FAQs- Lime Oat Energy Balls
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats can be used as a substitute for rolled oats. However, the texture of the energy balls may be slightly different.
What can I use if I don’t have Medjool dates?
If Medjool dates are not available, you can substitute them with dried figs or apricots. They will provide a similar sweetness and texture.
Can I make these energy balls without sunflower seed butter?
Absolutely! You can replace sunflower seed butter with almond butter, peanut butter, or any other nut or seed butter you prefer.
How long can I store these energy balls?
The energy balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I use lemon zest instead of lime zest?
Yes, lemon zest can be used as a substitute for lime zest. It will give the energy balls a different citrus flavor but will still be delicious.
