Nut-Free SunButter & Jelly Bliss Balls: Your Ultimate Grab-and-Go Energy Snack (Vegan, Gluten-Free)

Experience the nostalgic taste of a classic PB&J in a healthy, nut-free energy ball! Perfect for quick snacks and meal prep.

Happy April, dear readers! As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, there’s a renewed sense of energy in the air. This month kicked off with a delightful bachelorette weekend in the serene landscapes of Pennsylvania, a much-needed getaway with some truly wonderful women. It had been a while since I enjoyed the company of *just* girls, and I savored every moment, from dressing up for evenings out to relaxing in comfortable loungewear by the cabin.

Our slow-paced weekend was filled with refreshing hikes, engaging games, artisanal wine tasting, exploring charming local spots, and endless heartfelt conversations. Adding to the joy, my birthday also fell on that Saturday, making it a double celebration! Returning home, I felt inspired and refreshed, immediately diving into a full-scale spring cleaning and rearrangement of my closet. Out went the cozy, jewel-toned fluffy sweaters, replaced by a fresh array of pastel T-shirts, perfectly suited for the warmer weather ahead.

This seasonal shift and burst of new energy often call for equally vibrant and convenient snacks to fuel our active days. That’s precisely where these incredible **SunButter & Jelly Bliss Balls** come into play. They are the ultimate energy boost you need, whether you’re tackling spring cleaning, embarking on outdoor adventures, or simply seeking a wholesome, satisfying snack. These delightful balls capture the essence of a classic PB&J sandwich – that perfect balance of sweet and savory – but in a chewy, portable, and entirely nut-free form. They are an absolute game-changer for meal prepping and on-the-go snacking, ensuring you always have a healthy option at hand.

With the temperatures steadily climbing, my excitement for outdoor activities this spring and summer is at an all-time high. I first started developing these SunButter & Jelly Bliss Balls last summer, born out of a desire for quick, nourishing bites during my outdoor climbing excursions. They proved to be the perfect companion, providing sustained energy without weighing me down. What makes them truly special is their perfectly sweet and nutty flavor profile, reminiscent of a comforting PB&J, yet completely free of nuts.

Beyond their irresistible taste, I adore how sturdy and satiating these bliss balls are. They somehow manage to withstand the depths of my purse or the jostling of a climbing backpack, emerging intact and ready to deliver a burst of energy when needed most. How’s that for a magic ball? They’re not only delicious but also incredibly practical, making them an ideal snack for anyone with an active lifestyle or simply looking for healthy, convenient options. Plus, being plant-based and gluten-free, they cater to a wide range of dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy a taste of this wholesome goodness.

What You Need to Make SunButter & Jelly Bliss Balls

Creating these delightful SunButter & Jelly Bliss Balls requires just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The beauty of this recipe lies in its minimalist approach, focusing on quality ingredients that deliver maximum flavor and nutritional benefits. You’ll need:

• **No-Sugar-Added SunButter**: The star of the show, providing that creamy, nutty base without any peanuts. It’s packed with sunflower seed goodness.
• **Pure Maple Syrup**: A natural sweetener that not only adds a lovely depth of flavor but also helps bind the ingredients together.
• **Gluten-Free Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats**: These provide structure, fiber, and a satisfying chewiness to the balls. Make sure they are certified gluten-free if catering to sensitivities.
• **Ground Flaxseed**: A nutritional powerhouse, adding healthy omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and acting as an excellent binder for a perfect texture.
• **Chia Seeds**: Another superfood, rich in fiber, protein, and omega-3s. They also absorb moisture, helping to create the ideal consistency.
• **Dried Cranberries**: The “jelly” component of our bliss balls, offering a burst of sweet-tart flavor and a chewy texture that mimics fruit preserves.

That’s truly it! Just six simple ingredients come together to form these incredibly satisfying and nutritious treats. Each component plays a crucial role in both the flavor and texture, making these balls a balanced and delicious snack.

How to Make SunButter & Jelly Bliss Balls

Making these SunButter & Jelly Bliss Balls is incredibly straightforward and requires no baking, making them perfect for even the most novice of kitchen adventurers. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to achieving bliss ball perfection:

1. **Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients:** In a spacious mixing bowl, begin by adding your generous ½ cup of No-Sugar-Added SunButter, along with the ¼ cup of pure maple syrup. Then, incorporate the dry ingredients: 1 ¼ cup of gluten-free old-fashioned rolled oats, 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed, and 2 tablespoons of chia seeds.
2. **Mix Until Well-Combined:** Using a sturdy spatula or a wooden spoon, mix all the ingredients together thoroughly. Continue mixing until everything is well-combined and forms a cohesive, sticky dough. The goal is to have no dry pockets of oats or seeds.
3. **Adjust Consistency (If Needed):** This step is crucial for perfect bliss balls. If you find the mixture is too dry and crumbly, it might not hold together well when rolled. In this case, add a little more SunButter, a tablespoon at a time, and/or a teaspoon of maple syrup until the desired consistency is reached. Conversely, if the mixture appears too sticky or wet, making it difficult to handle, gradually add a bit more oats or ground flaxseed until it firms up.
4. **Incorporate Dried Cranberries:** Once your base dough is perfectly mixed, gently fold in the ⅓ cup of dried cranberries. Distribute them evenly throughout the mixture to ensure every bite has that delightful “jelly” burst.

These simple steps will lead you to a perfectly mixed dough, ready for the next crucial stage – chilling and rolling!

SunButter is a Nut-Free Alternative!

A key element that makes these bliss balls so special and inclusive is the use of SunButter, an outstanding nut-free alternative to traditional peanut butter. I specifically love using No-Sugar-Added SunButter in this recipe, and for good reason.

The beauty of this particular SunButter variety lies in its pure simplicity: the only ingredients are roasted sunflower seeds and a touch of salt! This means you’re getting all the rich, creamy, nutty flavor you crave without any added oils, sugars, or unnecessary ingredients. It provides that delicious, deeply satisfying creamy texture and taste that perfectly mimics peanut butter, allowing you to achieve that classic PB&J flavor profile without any nuts whatsoever. This is fantastic news for anyone with peanut or tree nut allergies, or for those who simply prefer to avoid nuts.

The hint of sea salt present in the SunButter brilliantly balances out the natural sweetness from the maple syrup and the jammy dried cranberries. This creates a wonderfully complex flavor that is both comforting and exciting. Beyond taste, SunButter is an excellent source of plant-based protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, which makes these energy balls incredibly satiating and truly mighty. They’re not just a treat; they’re a powerhouse snack designed to keep you full and energized throughout your day, making them an ideal choice for pre or post-workout fuel, school lunches, or simply a healthy pick-me-up.

Tips & Tricks for Making Balls

Achieving the perfect texture and shape for your SunButter & Jelly Bliss Balls is easy with a few key tips and tricks. These small steps can make a big difference in the final result:

• **Don’t Skip the Chill Time!** After mixing your dough, it’s absolutely essential to transfer the bowl to the refrigerator for about 5 to 15 minutes. This crucial step allows the mixture to slightly chill and firm up. Cold dough is much easier to handle and roll into uniform balls. If you try to roll it immediately, it might be too soft and sticky, leading to frustration and uneven shapes.
• **Scoop Uniformly:** Once chilled, remove the bowl from the refrigerator. For consistent sizing, use a cookie dough scoop (approximately 1 tablespoon in size) to portion out the dough. This ensures that all your bliss balls are roughly the same size, which helps with even chilling and makes for a more appealing presentation.
• **Roll with Confidence:** Take each scooped portion and roll it between your palms to form smooth, round bliss balls. The dough should make anywhere from 14 to 16 balls, depending on the size of your scoops. If you find the mixture is sticking to your hands during rolling, a simple trick is to slightly wet your hands with filtered water. This creates a non-stick surface, making the rolling process much smoother and cleaner.
• **Adjust for Perfect Consistency:** As mentioned in the “How to Make” section, don’t be afraid to adjust the consistency. If the dough is too dry, add a tiny bit more SunButter or maple syrup. If it’s too wet, a sprinkle of extra oats or ground flaxseed can quickly firm it up. Trust your instincts and the feel of the dough.
• **Patience is a Virtue:** While these are quick to make, allowing them a bit of time to fully set in the fridge after rolling can further enhance their texture and flavor.

Following these simple guidelines will ensure your SunButter & Jelly Bliss Balls turn out perfectly every time – delicious, sturdy, and ready for snacking!

Remove the bowl from the refrigerator and scoop the dough into ~1 tablespoon increments with a cookie dough scoop.

Roll the dough into bliss balls with your hands.

The dough should make anywhere from 14-16 balls.

If the mixture sticks to your hands, try slightly wetting them with filtered water before rolling. 

How to Serve SunButter & Jelly Bliss Balls

These versatile SunButter & Jelly Bliss Balls are designed to be enjoyed in countless ways as an easy, energizing, and utterly delicious snack. They are truly the perfect grab-and-go option for any time of day, offering a wholesome boost that satisfies both your hunger and your sweet tooth. Being entirely plant-based, gluten-free, and naturally sweetened, they are suitable for a variety of dietary needs and preferences.

I personally love to prepare a batch of these on Sunday afternoon, making them ideal for weekly meal prep. This ensures I have a convenient and portable snack ready to enjoy all week long, whether I’m heading out the door, working from home, or simply need a quick pick-me-up. Here are some fantastic ways to enjoy them:

• **Pre/Post Workout Fuel:** Their blend of complex carbohydrates from oats, healthy fats from SunButter and chia/flax, and plant-based protein makes them an excellent choice for sustained energy before a workout or for replenishing your body afterward.
• **Kids’ Lunches:** A safe and delicious nut-free option for school lunchboxes, providing essential nutrients without common allergens.
• **Your Lunch:** A perfect accompaniment to your main meal or a mid-afternoon snack to ward off the slump.
• **Sweet Snacking:** When you’re craving something sweet but want a healthier alternative to processed treats, these bliss balls hit the spot.
• **Healthy Dessert:** A satisfying and guilt-free way to end a meal.

The leftover balls will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, maintaining their chewy texture and fresh flavor. For an extra refreshing treat, you can even store them in the freezer for longer shelf life; just let them thaw for a few minutes before enjoying.

For a fun variation that keeps things exciting, don’t hesitate to experiment with the “jelly” component. Instead of dried cranberries, try subbing in any other dried berry you love, such as dried blueberries for a sweet twist, or dried cherries for a slightly more tart and sophisticated flavor. You could also try finely chopped dried apricots or dates for a different kind of sweetness. Get creative and make them your own!

Enjoy these delightful, energy-packed SunButter & Jelly Bliss Balls – they’re sure to become a staple in your healthy snacking routine!

More Bliss Balls

• Grain-Free Chocolate Cherry Bliss Balls

• Blueberry Muffin Energy Balls

• Beet Brownie Bliss Balls

• Pumpkin Apple Bliss Balls

• SunButter Date Bliss Balls

• Lemon Chia Bliss Balls

• Carrot Cake Bliss Balls

• Gingerbread Bliss Balls

• Pumpkin SunButter Chocolate Chip Bliss Balls

• Snickerdoodle Oat Bliss Balls

• Maple Walnut Bliss Balls

• Raspberry Cashew Cheesecake Bliss Balls

I Want to Hear From You

If you make this SunButter & Jelly Bliss Balls recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Your feedback is invaluable and helps me create more delicious and exciting recipes for you to enjoy.

Please be sure to leave me a comment, a star rating, and a review below so I can use your feedback to refine my creations and develop even more tasty treats.

Don’t forget to give me a shout on Instagram and use the hashtag #floraandvino to share your beautiful creations. I love seeing what you whip up in your kitchens!

You can also check out my Pinterest page to discover and pin more recipes like this one, perfect for planning your next healthy snack or meal.

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XO Lauren

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