Apple Balls
Sweet and chewy apple balls combine grated apple, oats, and nuts with cocoa for a delightful treat suitable for all ages and perfect as a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix butter, sugar, cocoa, and grated apple in a saucepan and bring to a hard boil for one minute.
- Remove from heat.
- Add oats, vanilla, and nuts to the mixture.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Add more oats if the mixture is too sticky.
- Drop teaspoons of the mixture onto waxed paper and let cool.
- Once cooled, roll the mixture into balls and roll in confectioners' sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. You can substitute the nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for a nut-free version. If you prefer a sweeter treat, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the mixture. Ensure the grated apple is well-drained to prevent excess moisture, which can make the mixture too sticky. These Apple Balls are a delightful addition to any holiday cookie platter, alongside Christmas Kiss Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These Apple Balls make a perfect snack or dessert on their own, but they can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. For a festive touch, roll them in colored sugar or sprinkles for special occasions. They pair beautifully with Lemon Or Orange Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Apple Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes or microwave for a few seconds until slightly warm. Avoid freezing as it may affect their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Balls contains roughly 181 calories, with 5g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can substitute grated apples with other fruits like pears or even finely grated carrots for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the fruit you choose is not too watery to maintain the right consistency of the mixture.
How can I make these Apple Balls healthier?
To make these Apple Balls healthier, consider using unsweetened applesauce in place of butter for a lower-fat option. You can also use whole grain oats and reduce the sugar by half or use a sugar substitute. This way, you can enjoy a guilt-free treat without compromising on flavor.
What can I do if the mixture is too sticky?
If your mixture is too sticky to form into balls, simply add more oats, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Alternatively, chilling the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes can also help firm it up, making it easier to handle.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).