Japanese Bento Box Energy Balls (Printer View)

Wholesome, bite-sized snacks with nuts, matcha, and fruit flavors. Energetic bites for lunchboxes or tea time.

# Components:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if necessary)
02 - 1/2 cup almond flour
03 - 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
04 - 1 tablespoon chia seeds
05 - 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder

→ Wet Ingredients

06 - 1/2 cup natural almond butter
07 - 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Mix-Ins

09 - 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
10 - 2 tablespoons black sesame seeds
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped roasted almonds

# Method:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, blend rolled oats, almond flour, shredded coconut, chia seeds, and matcha powder until evenly distributed.
02 - Add almond butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir thoroughly until a dense, sticky dough forms.
03 - Fold in chopped dried cranberries, black sesame seeds, and chopped roasted almonds until well incorporated.
04 - Portion dough using a tablespoon and roll each serving between your palms to form compact balls.
05 - Arrange energy balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow them to set.
06 - Transfer chilled energy balls to an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to one week.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy to prepare and ready in minutes
  • Packed with nutritious ingredients for a satisfying snack
02 -
  • Contains nuts (almonds), sesame, and possibly gluten if oats are not certified gluten-free
  • Honey is not suitable for infants under 1 year
03 -
  • Replace almond butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version
  • Add a sprinkle of sea salt for a flavor boost