Strawberry Cashew Energy Balls

When it comes to snacks, I like to think of them as mini meals rather than just fillers to hold my toddler over. I always aim to include at least two macronutrients—like protein + carbs or fat + carbs—to provide more well-rounded nourishment. But these energy balls go beyond that! They contain a protein, a healthy fat, a complex carbohydrate, and a fiber source, making them a truly balanced snack that fuels little bodies while keeping them full for longer.

To be honest, I can be picky with store-bought snacks. I don’t find many that I genuinely feel great about feeding my toddler. A lot of them are overly sweetened and packed with added sugars, fillers, or ingredients that don’t provide real sustenance. Because of that, I love making my own so I can pack them with nutrient-dense ingredients that support growth, development, and gut health.

The trade-off? It takes time! I get it. We are busy, and the endless snack requests can feel like a full-time job. So I usually make homemade snacks in bulk to last the whole week. A little prep now makes life so much easier later. If you have multiple little ones or want to stock up, double the recipe and freeze half so you always have a stash ready.

These strawberry cashew energy balls have been on repeat in our house. They are:

• Naturally sweetened with fresh strawberries—no processed sugars
  
• Melt-in-the-mouth soft—like a homemade meltable! I loved these early on after starting solids for that reason
  
• Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep little tummies full
  
• Quick and easy to make—just 5 ingredients
   

Nutrient Breakdown: Why These Energy Balls Are So Nourishing

One of the biggest reasons I love making food for my toddler is because I feel empowered knowing exactly what he’s getting in each bite. Each ingredient in these energy balls was chosen with intention—here’s how they nourish your little one, too.

Cashews (Healthy Fats + Protein)

Cashews provide healthy fats, plant-based protein, and minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron. These fats are essential for brain development, hormone regulation, and steady energy levels. The protein supports muscle growth and repair, which is especially important for active toddlers.

Strawberries (Natural Sweetness + Antioxidants)

Strawberries are the only sweetener in this recipe, which keeps these energy balls naturally lower in sugar than many store-bought snacks. They’re rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and boosts iron absorption. They also contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation, supporting overall health. The gentle fruit sweetness makes these taste like a treat while helping toddlers develop a palate that isn’t overly reliant on sugar.

Oats (Fiber + Slow-Releasing Energy)

Oats provide complex carbohydrates and fiber, which help regulate digestion and keep blood sugar stable. They also contain soluble fiber (beta-glucan), which supports gut health and helps keep bowel movements regular.

Chia Seeds (Omega-3s + Fiber)

Chia seeds may be tiny, but they are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for brain development, memory, and focus. They also contain fiber, which supports digestion and helps keep little bellies satisfied. Since chia seeds absorb liquid, they help create a soft, easy-to-eat consistency in these energy balls.

Coconut Oil (Healthy Fats + Energy Boost)

Coconut oil provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of fat that’s quickly converted into energy. This makes it a great fuel source for growing toddlers. It also has antimicrobial properties that support gut health and immunity.

How to Make These Energy Balls

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw cashews
  
• ½ cup oats (rolled or quick)
  
• 1-2 tablespoons ground chia seeds
  

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup fresh strawberries
  
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil 

Instructions

1. Add the dry ingredients to a food processor and pulse until finely ground.
2. Add the strawberries and coconut oil. Blend until a sticky dough forms, scraping down the sides as needed. You may need to stop and scrape the mixture off the sides a couple of times before blending again to make sure everything is fully incorporated.
3. Roll into bite-sized balls and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to set.
4. Enjoy!

These come together in minutes and can be prepped at the start of the week for easy, grab-and-go snacks.

Storage & Serving Tips

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
  
• Freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
  
• They soften quickly at room temperature, usually within 5-10 minutes.
  

From my snack queen to yours, I hope you love these as much as we do. Let me know if you try them—I’d love to hear how they go over in your home.

Xx,

Clare