These healthy banana coconut energy balls are an easy Paleo and AIP treat that is a delicious AIP-approved snack for both kids and adults. These no-bake energy bites are not only convenient for traveling but are also nutrient-dense, making them an ideal choice for busy days.
As a mom of three young boys, I know how important it is to have quick and healthy snacks on hand. These AIP power balls are perfect for on-the-go, making them a quick and easy snack.
Following a restrictive diet can be challenging, especially when it comes to finding AIP or Paleo snacks with minimally processed ingredients. One of the hardest parts about following the Paleo Autoimmune Protocol diet is the lack of compliant convenience foods.
So that’s why I love to make a batch of these banana coconut energy balls to keep on hand. Whenever I need an easy Paleo and AIP treat—whether I’m at home or on an outing with the boys—I can simply toss a few of these energy balls with collagen into a plastic bag or container for a simple snack.
These banana coconut energy balls are quick to make. A food processor blends all of the ingredients together and you can then easily form the mixture into bite-sized balls.
Both the banana and shredded coconut provide a naturally sweet flavor. Coconut flour is added to give some bulk to the energy bites. They are gluten-free and grain-free! Many energy bites contain rolled oats, but these do not, making them the ideal AIP-approved snack for those on more restrictive eating plans, as well as a great choice for anyone following a Paleo diet.
Ingredients for AIP Energy Balls
- Coconut flakes: Make sure you use unsweetened coconut flakes to avoid added sugar.
- Banana: This recipe is a great way to use up extra-ripe bananas.
- Coconut oil: This is an AIP-compliant oil that contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), providing a quick energy source along with other health benefits.
- Coconut flour: One of my favorite gluten-free flours that is also AIP-compliant.
- Collagen powder: Collagen offers various benefits, supporting skin, joints, hair, nails, gut health, muscle recovery, and bone strength. It also adds protein to these energy bites. Omit for a vegan energy power ball option.
- Cinnamon and ginger: These spices enhance the flavor of the energy bites and are both AIP-friendly.
- Sea salt or Himalayan salt: I prefer to use Himalayan salt since it generally contains more trace minerals compared to sea salt.
These no-bake AIP power balls are not only convenient for me, but they’re also a hit with my kids, making snack time a little easier for our busy family while fitting perfectly into our Paleo and AIP diets!
How to Make Banana Coconut Energy Balls
Combine the coconut flakes in a food processor and blend until they become finely crumbled.
Add the rest of the ingredients and blend until the mixture comes together into a dough ball.
Form the dough into balls, using about a tablespoon for each ball, and refrigerate for around 20 minutes to set.
📖 Recipe
Banana Coconut Energy Balls (AIP, Paleo)
Ingredients
- 2 cups unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1 banana (small, very ripe)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- ⅓ cup coconut flour
- 3 tablespoons collagen powder (omit for vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ginger
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt or Himalayan salt
Instructions
- Add the coconut flakes to a food processor and blend until fine crumbs form.
- Add the remaining ingredients and blend until a dough ball forms.
- Shape about a tablespoon of dough into balls. Refrigerate the energy balls for about 20 minutes to set.
Notes
- If the mixture is still too loose after mixing in the food processor, add an extra tablespoon of coconut flour and blend again until it reaches the right consistency.
- Omit the collagen powder for a vegan energy ball option and add extra coconut flour instead.
Lauren
I make these AIP energy balls every week to have a quick snack!