These coconut energy balls are a simple no-bake snack made with wholesome plant-based ingredients. Soft, lightly sweet, and packed with coconut flavor, they are perfect for a quick bite before a workout, during busy days, or whenever you need steady energy without refined ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These energy balls come together in minutes with a food processor and require no baking at all. They provide slow-release carbohydrates and healthy fats that help keep you full and energized. The recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, can be adapted for keto lifestyles, and is easy to customize with different flavors or added protein.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
½ cup quick oats (or almond flour for a gluten-free and lower-carb option)
1 ½ cups unsweetened desiccated coconut, plus extra for rolling
3 tablespoons coconut nectar or maple syrup
¼ cup coconut milk
½ teaspoon coconut extract or vanilla extract
1 to 2 tablespoons coconut water, as needed
Directions
Add the quick oats and unsweetened desiccated coconut to a food processor fitted with an S blade. Process on high speed until the mixture becomes a fine, flour-like texture.
Add the coconut nectar, coconut milk, coconut extract, and 1 tablespoon of coconut water. Blend again until the mixture starts to clump together into a sticky dough.
Check the texture. If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, add more coconut water, 1 teaspoon at a time, blending well after each addition. If the dough is too wet, add more desiccated coconut, 2 tablespoons at a time, and process again.
Once the dough holds together when pressed between your fingers, scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll it into a smooth ball.
Roll each ball in extra desiccated coconut to coat the outside.
Place the finished energy balls on a plate lined with parchment paper and repeat with the remaining mixture.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 18 energy balls.
Preparation time: 7 to 9 minutes
Cooking time: none
Total time: about 10 minutes
Each ball is intended as a single serving, ideal as a snack or pre-workout bite.
Variations
For extra protein, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of hemp seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, or pea protein powder. You may need a little extra coconut water to balance the texture.
For a nutty flavor, mix in 1 to 2 tablespoons of peanut butter or almond butter. If you do, add a bit more desiccated coconut to keep the dough from becoming too soft.
For a chocolate version, blend in 1 tablespoon cocoa powder or fold in mini dairy-free chocolate chips.
For a keto-friendly option, use almond flour instead of oats and a sugar-free syrup in place of coconut nectar.
Storage/Reheating
Store the coconut energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before eating. Reheating is not needed.
FAQs
Can I make these energy balls without a food processor?
A food processor is best for achieving the right texture, but a high-powered blender can work if you stop frequently to scrape down the sides.
Are these coconut energy balls healthy?
They are made with simple, minimally processed ingredients and provide healthy fats and steady energy, making them a balanced snack.
Can I replace oats completely?
Yes, almond flour works well and keeps the recipe gluten-free and lower in carbohydrates.
Do these energy balls taste very sweet?
They are lightly sweet. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less coconut nectar or syrup.
Can I add protein powder?
Yes, plant-based protein powder works well. Add a small amount of extra liquid to keep the dough moist.
Are these suitable for kids?
Yes, they are soft, naturally sweet, and made with simple ingredients that kids usually enjoy.
Why is my dough too crumbly?
This usually means it needs more liquid. Add coconut water or water a teaspoon at a time until it holds together.
Why is my dough too sticky?
Add more desiccated coconut and blend again until the texture is easier to handle.
Can I skip the coconut extract?
Yes, it’s optional. The balls will still have plenty of coconut flavor from the coconut itself.
How many energy balls should I eat at once?
One to two balls is usually enough for a snack or pre-workout boost, depending on your energy needs.
Conclusion
Coconut energy balls are an easy, versatile snack that fits into many lifestyles. With no baking required and endless customization options, they are perfect for meal prep, healthy snacking, or fueling your day with simple, nourishing ingredients.
These no-bake coconut energy balls are soft, lightly sweet, and full of wholesome plant-based ingredients. Perfect for snacking or pre-workout fuel, they’re vegan, gluten-free, and easy to customize.
Ingredients
1/2 cup quick oats (or almond flour for gluten-free/lower-carb option)
1 1/2 cups unsweetened desiccated coconut, plus extra for rolling
3 tablespoons coconut nectar or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut milk
1/2 teaspoon coconut extract or vanilla extract
1 to 2 tablespoons coconut water, as needed
Instructions
Add quick oats and desiccated coconut to a food processor and process until fine and flour-like.
Add coconut nectar, coconut milk, extract, and 1 tablespoon of coconut water. Process until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
If the mixture is too dry, add coconut water 1 teaspoon at a time. If too wet, add more coconut and blend again.
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the dough and roll it into a smooth ball.
Roll each ball in extra desiccated coconut to coat the outside.
Place finished balls on a parchment-lined plate and repeat with remaining mixture.
Notes
Add protein powder or seeds for extra nutrition.
Use almond flour and sugar-free syrup for a keto version.
Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
No reheating needed—enjoy straight from the fridge or after thawing.
