Salted Caramel Apple Energy Balls (Vegan + Gluten-Free) Recipe

Sweet, chewy, and bursting with cozy fall flavor, these Salted Caramel Apple Energy Balls (Vegan + Gluten-Free) are perfect for snacking any time—whether you’re powering through an afternoon slump or need fuel for your next adventure. They taste just like a caramel apple crossed with a decadent candy bite, but they’re packed with wholesome ingredients and couldn’t be easier to whip up. If you’re looking for a treat that’s equal parts satisfying and energizing, this is guaranteed to become your new go-to recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Salted Caramel Apple Energy Balls (Vegan + Gluten-Free) call for just a handful of pantry staples, but every component plays an important role in creating their irresistible taste and chewy, cookie-dough-like texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why you shouldn’t skip a single ingredient!

• Medjool dates: The secret to natural caramel flavor and sticky sweetness—Medjool dates hold the dough together and eliminate the need for added sugar.
• Walnut pieces: Bring heart-healthy fats, a buttery texture, and just the right amount of crunch (feel free to swap in almonds or pecans for a twist).
• Rolled oats: Oats add bulk and give these energy balls that familiar, wholesome chew—just be sure to use rolled oats for the perfect texture.
• Unsweetened applesauce: For apple pie flair and extra moisture, applesauce is a must—plus, it’s what gives these bites their signature flavor.
• Ground flax seed: This superfood amps up the nutrition and helps bind everything together, keeping the balls tender but not crumbly.
• Sea salt: Don’t skip the salt—it’s key to boosting the caramel flavor and making the apples and cinnamon really sing.
• Cinnamon: Warm and aromatic, cinnamon ties everything together and makes each bite taste just like fall.
• Optional, for rolling—crushed walnuts or shredded coconut: For extra flair, texture, and flavor, these are the perfect finishing touch!

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Energy Balls (Vegan + Gluten-Free)

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Tools

Start by making sure you have everything ready to go: pit the dates if needed, measure out the walnuts, oats, and applesauce, and grab your ground flax, cinnamon, and sea salt. A food processor makes this recipe quick and easy, but have a bowl and plate ready for rolling and garnishing the balls.

Step 2: Process Everything Into a Dough

Add the dates, walnuts, rolled oats, applesauce, ground flax seed, sea salt, and cinnamon all together into the bowl of your food processor. Pulse to break up the nuts and oats, then process until the mixture starts to clump together into a thick, sticky dough. Scrape down the sides once or twice to make sure everything is evenly combined and there are no big chunks left.

Step 3: Roll Into Balls

Using clean hands, scoop out about one and a half tablespoons of the dough at a time. Roll each portion between your palms to form a ball—the mixture should hold together easily and feel pliable, thanks to the dates and applesauce. If it feels too sticky, pop the bowl in the fridge for five minutes to firm up slightly.

Step 4: Coat for Extra Deliciousness

If you’d like to level up your Salted Caramel Apple Energy Balls (Vegan + Gluten-Free), roll each ball in additional crushed walnuts or shredded coconut. This not only makes them look fancy but adds a little crunch or chew with every bite. Place the finished balls on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Chill and Enjoy

Transfer the tray to the refrigerator and let the balls chill for at least 30 minutes. This firms them up and intensifies the flavors. Once set, dig in! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer—the flavors only get better as they mingle.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Energy Balls (Vegan + Gluten-Free)

Garnishes

For a beautiful (but incredibly easy) finishing touch, try rolling your energy balls in a little extra ground cinnamon, a pinch of flaky sea salt, or even a swirl of melted vegan chocolate. Presentation meets extra flavor—what’s not to love?

Side Dishes

Pair these Salted Caramel Apple Energy Balls (Vegan + Gluten-Free) with fresh apple slices, a mug of hot chai or coffee, or alongside a bowl of dairy-free yogurt with a sprinkle of granola. They also work great as a sweet addition to any brunch spread or serve as a perfect accompaniment to a fall-themed snack board.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the balls pyramid-style on a rustic wooden board, serve nestled in mini cupcake liners, or arrange them with skewered fruit for a playful, modern twist. If it’s for a party, you can even stick them onto lollipop sticks for a fun, grab-and-go treat that looks just like mini caramel apples!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Salted Caramel Apple Energy Balls (Vegan + Gluten-Free) are rolled and chilled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay soft and fresh for up to a week, making them perfect for meal prep and midweek snacks. Just grab and go!

Freezing

Want to stockpile a batch for future cravings? Freeze your energy balls on a baking sheet, then once hard, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for up to three months—and you can enjoy them straight from the freezer for an even chewier, fudgier texture.

Reheating

While these bites are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, if you love a softer texture, simply leave them out at room temp for 15–20 minutes before eating. No need to microwave—just let them naturally warm up for ultimate snacking pleasure.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Almonds and pecans both work beautifully in this recipe, and each brings a slightly different taste and texture. Just make sure to measure the same amount and process the mixture well so it holds together.

Are these Salted Caramel Apple Energy Balls (Vegan + Gluten-Free) kid-friendly?

Definitely! Kids love the natural caramel sweetness, and since these balls are free from refined sugars and allergens like gluten and dairy, they’re perfect for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.

What if my dough is too sticky or too dry?

If your mixture feels too sticky to roll, let it chill in the fridge for a few minutes, or add a pinch more oats. If it’s too dry and crumbly, a spoonful more applesauce or an extra date will bring it together.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats provide the best texture—you’ll get a gentle chew that holds up well. Quick oats can make the dough more mushy, so stick with rolled oats if you have them, but you can use quick oats in a pinch for a softer bite.

How many energy balls does this recipe make?

This batch typically makes about 12–14 balls, depending on how generous you are with your scooping. Feel free to double the recipe for a crowd or store extras for busy weeks!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, you have to try these Salted Caramel Apple Energy Balls (Vegan + Gluten-Free)! Their irresistible flavor and nourishing ingredients make them a delight—and you just might find yourself making them week after week. Happy snacking!

Print