Homemade Chocolate Cereal Balls

These homemade chocolate cereal balls make for a healthy and satisfying snack! They are packed with whole grain goodness, and provide some protein, and healthy fats with a touch of sweetness. Better than store-bought Nesquick!

What are the ingredients of choco cereal balls?

Here are the ingredients for the These homemade chocolate cereal balls recipe:

1. Blended Oats or oat flour: Oat flour is made by grinding oats into a fine powder. It provides a nutritious and gluten-free base for the cereal balls, adding fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the recipe.
2. Maple syrup or honey: Maple syrup or honey are natural sweeteners. They add a touch of sweetness to the cereal balls. You can use other liquid sweeteners like agave syrup as alternatives.
3. Peanut butter: Peanut butter adds creaminess and richness to the cereal balls. It also helps bind the ingredients together. By the way, peanut butter contains many nutrients that can improve heart health, including monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), magnesium and vitamin E.
4. Cocoa powder: Cocoa powder or cacao powder provides the chocolate flavor to the cereal balls. It adds a rich, deep chocolatey taste without the added sugars or fats found in chocolate bars. Cocoa powder also contains polyphenols, antioxidants that help to improve cholesterol and blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

These ingredients work together to create a delicious and healthier alternative to store-bought chocolate cereal balls!

Are Choco Balls healthy?

The homemade chocolate cereal balls recipe can be considered a healthier alternative to store-bought chocolate treats. Here are some reasons why they can be considered a healthier choice:

1. Whole Grain Base: The recipe calls for oat flour, which is made from ground oats. Oats are a good source of fiber and contain beneficial nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Choosing whole grains like oat flour provides more nutrients and fiber compared to refined grains.
2. Natural Sweetener: The recipe uses maple syrup or another liquid sweetener as a natural sweetening agent. Compared to refined sugars, maple syrup contains some minerals and antioxidants. However, it is still important to consume sweeteners in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
3. Peanut Butter: The addition of peanut butter provides healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients. Peanut butter offers monounsaturated fats, vitamins, minerals, and protein. These fats are considered heart-healthy and can contribute to satiety.
4. Cocoa Powder: Cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants and provides a chocolate flavor without the added sugars or fats found in chocolate bars. It can offer potential health benefits, including improved heart health and mood enhancement.

While these homemade chocolate cereal balls can be a healthier choice compared to many processed chocolate treats, it’s important to consume them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Keep in mind that portion control is key, and the overall nutritional content will depend on the specific brands and ingredients used.

What are the steps to making cereal balls?

In a mixing bowl, combine the oat flour, nut butter, honey or maple syrup, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Stir well until the ingredients are evenly combined. Take small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.

Bake the chocolate cereal balls in the preheated to 320 °F (160 °C) oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are firm and slightly golden.

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cereal balls cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, the baked homemade chocolate cereal balls are ready to be served. Add some milk, and enjoy!

How to store homemade cereal balls?

To properly store homemade chocolate cereal balls , follow these steps:

1. Allow the cereal balls to cool completely before storing them. This helps maintain their texture and prevent condensation.
2. Transfer the cooled cereal balls to an airtight container. Use a container that is large enough to accommodate the balls without squishing or breaking them.
3. Place a layer of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer of cereal balls to prevent them from sticking together.
4. Seal the container tightly to create an airtight seal, which helps retain freshness and prevent moisture absorption.
5. Store the cereal balls in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Avoid storing them in areas exposed to heat or direct sunlight, as this can cause them to become stale or lose their texture.
6. If the weather or temperature is particularly warm, it may be preferable to store the cereal balls in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming too soft.
7. Check the stored cereal balls periodically for any signs of spoilage, such as mold or an off smell. If you notice any issues, discard them immediately.

By following these storage guidelines, your homemade chocolate cereal balls should stay fresh for up to a week, depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. Enjoy your homemade cereal balls as a delicious and convenient snack whenever you desire!

If you like healthy breakfast ideas, check out these recipes:

• Tropical Granola Bars
• Chia Pudding
• Homemade Cranberry Pistachio Granola