Pin it Zesty, no-bake energy balls featuring bright lemon and warming ginger make the perfect festive snack or thoughtful homemade gift. With simple wholesome ingredients, these holiday bites strike the perfect balance between delicious flavor and easy preparation.
The first time I made these for a holiday party, my guests kept asking for the recipe — they couldn&t believe such a bright treat was also gluten-free and dairy-free.
Ingredients
- Almond flour: 1 cup (100 g)
- Shredded unsweetened coconut: 1 cup (80 g), plus extra for rolling
- Pure maple syrup or honey: 1/3 cup (80 ml)
- Fresh lemon juice: 2 tbsp (30 ml)
- Lemon zest: 2 tsp (10 ml) (about 1 large lemon)
- Finely grated fresh ginger: 1 tbsp (15 ml)
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp (5 ml)
- Finely chopped crystallized ginger: 1/4 cup (35 g) (optional)
- Sea salt: Pinch
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour and shredded coconut.
- Add wet ingredients:
- Add maple syrup (or honey), lemon juice, lemon zest, fresh grated ginger, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt.
- Mix dough:
- Stir until a thick, sticky dough forms. If using, fold in the crystallized ginger.
- Form balls:
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls.
- Coat in coconut:
- Roll each ball in extra shredded coconut to coat.
- Chill:
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Store:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Pin it Making these with my kids has become a December tradition: they love rolling the dough into balls and coating them in coconut, while sneaking a taste or two along the way.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, grater for lemon zest and ginger, spoon or small cookie scoop, baking sheet or tray, and parchment paper make preparation simple.
Allergen Information
This snack contains tree nuts (almond flour), plus coconut which may be considered a tree nut for some. It&s gluten-free and dairy-free, but be sure to check ingredient labels for possible cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Each serving offers approximately 80 calories, 6 g fat, 7 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Pin it Serve these bright, festive balls alongside a cup of herbal tea for a memorable holiday treat. They also make a beautiful gift when packaged in a decorative tin or box.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make nut-free lemon ginger balls?
Replace almond flour with sunflower seed meal for a nut-free version. All other ingredients remain the same.
- → Can I freeze lemon ginger balls?
Yes, these balls freeze well for up to 2 months. Freeze in an airtight container and thaw before serving.
- → What can I use instead of honey?
Pure maple syrup is a great alternative to honey, offering a natural sweetness and smooth texture.
- → How do I add extra flavor?
Increase the ginger or add a touch more lemon zest for stronger zing and brightness in your snack balls.
- → Are these suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, these lemon ginger balls use gluten-free ingredients and are safe for those avoiding gluten.
- → What tools do I need to prepare these?
You'll need a mixing bowl, grater for zesting and ginger, spoon or scoop for portioning, and a tray lined with parchment.