When I was growing up, the smell of cinnamon and nutmeg drifting through our kitchen meant the holidays were close. My mom would stand by the stovetop warming honey and peanut butter while I stirred oats in the big mixing bowl. This takes me right back to those chilly afternoons when we wanted something sweet but simple. No oven, no fuss, just mixing, scooping, and waiting for that perfect set. My mom always said the best treats don’t need to be complicated. Let me show you how I still make these Holiday Spice Energy Balls today.
No-Bake Holiday Spice Energy Balls
Equipment
- Microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cookie Scoop
- Parchment Paper
- baking sheets
- Measuring tools
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan over low heat, gently warm the peanut butter and honey until smooth and easily stirrable (about 30–45 seconds in microwave or 2–3 minutes on low heat). Do not boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, coconut, flaxseed, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients.
- Stir thoroughly until everything is evenly coated and sticky. The mixture should hold together when pressed between your fingers. If dry, add 1 teaspoon honey at a time.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls using your hands.
- Place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until firm and set.
Notes
- Too crumbly? Add more honey or peanut butter (1 teaspoon at a time).
- Too sticky? Add oats or chill longer.
- Not holding shape? Make sure mixture is warm enough to bind before rolling.
Nutrition
CONCLUSION
Between you and me, these Holiday Spice Energy Balls remind me so much of those cozy December afternoons when my mom and I would mix everything in one big bowl and sneak little tastes before they set. Trust me on this, once you make them, they’ll become your go-to holiday snack when you want something chewy, warm spiced, and quick. I still love how simple they are: stir, scoop, chill, and enjoy. Back in our kitchen, that’s all it ever took to make something special.