Energy Balls The Kids Will Love (GF, NF & Without Oats)

Looking for a quick, no-bake snack that’s perfect for lunchboxes, after-school treats, or on-the-go energy boosts? These Chocolate Coconut Energy Balls are a great option that the whole family will enjoy. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re naturally sweetened, allergy, and freezer-friendly.

✅ Gluten-free
✅ Nut-free
✅ Oat-free
✅ No refined sugar
✅ No baking required

This energy ball recipe is completely gluten-free, nut-free and doesn’t require oats.

You can make them as sweet or healthy as you like and they store really well in the freezer for those times you need an emergency stash of gluten free, nut free snacks.

They appear to look like chocolate, so feel free to call them ‘Chocolate Balls’ for fussy little eaters – It’s amazing how kids react to the names we call foods and if they’re willing to even try them 🙂

Really, the only downside of this recipe, is the coconut that seems to make it’s way all over the kitchen!

Ingredients To Make These Energy Balls Gluten-Free, Oat-Free and Nut-Free

This recipe only requires 5 simple ingredients:

• Dates: I use the medjool dates, but you can certainly use dried dates if that’s all you have. Just be sure to make sure that your dates have been pitted before placing them in the food processor 🙂
• Cocoa: simple cocoa powder is great for this recipe to make them appear more ‘chocolatey’ than they really are. You can substitute this for cacao powder if you prefer.
• Desiccated Coconut: this is what I use, but you can use shredded coconut or coconut flakes if you prefer. It all gets processed together anyway. I do prefer desiccated coconut for the rolling at the end though. It’s personal choice though.
• Vanilla: this provides a little flavour and a little liquid to the mix which helps with binding. You can use vanilla paste though and this works just as well.
• Coconut oil: this helps to not only add flavour, but also helps to bind the mixture which helps with the rolling process.

💡 Tips & Variations

• Adjusting Consistency: If the mixture is too dry, add a little more coconut oil or a splash of water. Wetting your hands can also help when rolling.
• Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of peppermint extract for a different flavor profile. I quite often add the peppermint extract, and a little goes a long way!
• Sweetness Level: For a sweeter treat, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.