Sargent Choice Test Kitchen: Nut-Free Sunflower Butter Oatmeal Balls
Sargent Choice Nut-Free Sunflower Butter Oatmeal Balls
April 12, 2022
Mia Sugarman, 4th Year Dietetics Major, Psychology Minor
Recipes modified from homefullofhoney.com
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup Sunflower Seed Butter
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed meal, hemp hearts, chia seeds, or finely chopped nuts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips
- 1/8 tsp salt
Directions
- Combine oats, sunflower butter, seeds or nuts (if using), honey, raisins, cinnamon, vanilla extract and chocolate chips in a bowl. Mix well.
- Cover and chill the dough mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Remove from the refrigerator and form small balls (about 1-2 tablespoons per ball) using a spoon or a small stainless-steel scoop. Form/roll the mixture to shape.
- Store refrigerated in an air-tight container for up to one week.
What We Liked
- This recipe is suitable for people with a nut allergy.
- The oatmeal balls were fun to make and roll; this was a great activity to do with friends or family.
- The oatmeal balls could be made big or small according to your preference, and could be enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
- They could be batch prepared and stored, warmed up or enjoyed cold.
- The chocolate and sunflower butter combination gave the energy balls a rich and delicious flavor.
Suggestions
- Prepare the energy balls and then store them in the fridge to allow them to stick together.
- Add dried fruits or berries to the mixture according to your preference.
Nutritional Value
- Greek yogurt is high in protein, which helps keep us full and satisfied for longer.
- Old fashioned oats are high in soluble fiber, which supports digestion, helps lower cholesterol levels, and fills us up!
- Flaxseeds and chia seeds add a boost of omega 3 fatty acids, in addition to fiber, protein and other vitamins and minerals.