No-Bake Cherry Oat Balls

A quick, wholesome bite-sized snack that pairs the natural sweetness of dried cherries with hearty rolled oats. These no-bake energy balls come together in minutes, require no oven, and provide a balanced mix of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber—perfect for breakfast on the run or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: All you need is one bowl and a refrigerator—no cooking skills or appliances beyond a spoon and a baking sheet.

• Nutrient-dense ingredients: Rolled oats supply slow-release energy, while almond butter and flaxseed add protein and omega-3s.

• Customisable: Swap the nut butter, add in protein powder, or adjust the sweetener to suit dietary needs.

• Portable & kid-friendly: The compact format travels well in lunch boxes, gym bags, or office drawers.

• Naturally gluten-free (with certified oats): Ideal for those avoiding wheat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats

• ½ cup dried tart cherries, roughly chopped

• ½ cup creamy almond butter (or any smooth nut/seed butter)

• ⅓ cup honey or pure maple syrup

• 2 Tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of fine sea salt

Directions

1. Combine dry ingredients. In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the oats, chopped cherries, and flaxseed until evenly distributed.

2. Add wet ingredients. Pour in almond butter, honey, vanilla, and salt. Stir with a sturdy spatula until the mixture becomes moist and holds together when pressed.

3. Chill. Cover and refrigerate the bowl for 15 – 20 minutes; this firms the mixture and makes shaping easier.

4. Shape. Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the dough and roll between your palms into balls about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.

5. Set. Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to set before serving.

Servings and timing

• Yield: Approximately 18 balls (about 6 snack-sized servings of 3 balls each)

• Active prep: 10 minutes

• Chill time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate-Cherry: Fold in 2 Tbsp mini dark-chocolate chips.

• Peanut Butter & Jelly: Swap almond butter for peanut butter and replace half the cherries with dried strawberries.

• Protein Boost: Add one scoop (about 25 g) of unflavoured or vanilla protein powder; increase honey by 1 Tbsp if mixture becomes too dry.

• Citrus Zest: Grate in the zest of ½ an orange for a bright note.

• Nut-Free: Use sunflower-seed butter and certified nut-free oats for school-safe snacks.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 1 week.

• Freezer: Freeze on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months; thaw 15 minutes at room temperature before eating.

• Reheating: Not required; serve chilled or at room temperature. If balls feel too firm straight from the fridge, let them sit 5 minutes to soften.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Quick oats work, but the texture will be softer and the balls may feel denser. If you prefer a chewier bite, stick with old-fashioned rolled oats.

How do I keep the mixture from sticking to my hands?

Lightly dampen your palms with cold water or coat them with a thin film of oil before rolling each ball.

Are these suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes—replace honey with maple syrup, brown-rice syrup, or agave nectar to make the recipe fully plant-based.

Can I omit the flaxseed?

Certainly. Substitute an equal amount of chia seeds, finely chopped nuts, or extra oats; adjust sweetener if needed to maintain binding.

What is the best way to chop dried cherries?

Use a lightly oiled chef’s knife to prevent sticking, or pulse the cherries a few times in a food processor.

Will the balls hold together without chilling?

They will be sticky and prone to crumbling if shaped immediately. The brief chill firms the nut butter, helping the oats bind properly.

How can I add extra sweetness without more honey?

Mix in 1–2 Tbsp mini chocolate chips, sweetened shredded coconut, or finely diced dried apricots.

Are these energy balls gluten-free?

Rolled oats are naturally gluten-free but often cross-contaminated. Choose oats certified GF if serving anyone with coeliac disease.

Can children help make this recipe?

Yes—measuring, stirring, and rolling are safe, hands-on tasks ideal for supervised young helpers.

How long can the balls sit at room temperature?

For the best texture, limit unrefrigerated time to 2 hours, especially in warm environments, then return leftovers to the fridge.

Conclusion

No-Bake Cherry Oat Balls combine convenience with balanced nutrition, requiring minimal equipment and zero baking. Their adaptable flavour profile, extended shelf life, and portability make them an excellent staple for busy households, hikers, and anyone seeking a wholesome snack option at any time of day

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