Brainy Bellies Almond or Sunflower Butter Power Balls

A quick, no-bake energy snack that kids love and parents feel great about! Made with just a few wholesome ingredients, these little power balls are packed with healthy fats, protein, and gut-friendly fiber. Perfect for lunchboxes, after school snacks, or on the go!

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup almond butter or sunflower seed butter

• 3/4 cup quick oats

• 2 tbsp honey OR 4-5 pitted dates (your choice of sweetener)

• 1/2 cup shredded coconut for rolling (optional)

• 1/4 cup chia seeds for rolling (optional)

Instructions

Step 1 - Pulse in food processor: Add the nut or seed butter, oats, and your choice of sweetener to a food processor. If using dates, make sure they are pitted and soft. Pulse until everything comes together into a thick, sticky mixture that holds its shape when pressed.

Step 2 - Form the power balls: Using a spoon, scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll into bite size balls with your hands.

Step 3 - Roll in your choice of coating: Choose your coating and spread it on a plate. Use shredded coconut for a sweet tropical flavor, chia seeds for an extra gut-health boost, or a mix of both for the best of both worlds! Roll each ball until fully coated.

Step 4 - Chill and enjoy: Place the power balls in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes to firm up. Then enjoy! Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Tips

Almond butter is rich in healthy fats, vitamin E, and magnesium which support gut health and brain development. If your child has a nut allergy, sunflower seed butter works perfectly and is just as nutritious! Dates are a wonderful whole food sweetener packed with natural fiber and minerals that are great for gut health. Chia seeds add an extra boost of omega-3s and prebiotic fiber that feed the good bacteria in your child’s gut microbiome. These power balls store in the fridge for up to one week or can be frozen for up to one month. Make a big batch at the start of the week for a quick grab and go snack every day!