Save Zesty, no-bake energy balls featuring bright lemon and warming ginger brightening every festive platter—ideal for snacking or thoughtful gifting during any holiday.
I first made these lemon ginger balls for a holiday get-together, and guests couldn&t stop reaching for them. Their vibrant citrusy flavor with just a hint of spice is always a cheerful touch to the snack table.
Ingredients
- Almond flour: 1 cup (100 g), or use sunflower seed meal for nut-free
- Shredded unsweetened coconut: 1 cup (80 g), 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 (optional): 1/4 cup (35 g)
- Sea salt: Pinch
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, mix almond flour and shredded coconut.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Stir in maple syrup (or honey), lemon juice, lemon zest, grated ginger, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
- Form Dough:
- Mix until a thick, sticky dough forms. If using, fold in crystallized ginger.
- Shape Balls:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls.
- Coat Balls:
- Roll each ball in extra shredded coconut.
- Chill:
- Place on parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Store:
- Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Save Making these together with my family always turns into a joyful kitchen moment—everyone wants to help rolling them in coconut and sneak a taste as they go.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, grater, spoon or cookie scoop, baking sheet or tray, parchment paper
Allergen Information
This recipe contains almond flour and coconut. It is gluten-free and dairy-free, but always check your ingredient labels for cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Each ball contains approximately 80 calories, 6 g fat, 7 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Save These lemon ginger balls make a bright and crowd-pleasing addition to any festive spread—enjoy them straight from the fridge or packed as a sweet homemade gift.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I prepare these lemon ginger balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! These balls keep well in the fridge for up to a week and freeze for up to two months, making them perfect for advance holiday planning.
- → Is almond flour required or can I use alternatives?
For nut-free needs, sunflower seed meal works in place of almond flour, maintaining texture and flavor.
- → How can I make them extra tangy?
Add an extra half teaspoon of grated ginger for more zing or another splash of lemon juice to intensify the brightness.
- → Are these suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all listed ingredients are gluten-free. Ensure that add-ins and coconut are labeled gluten-free if necessary.
- → What tools do I need for preparation?
You'll need a mixing bowl, grater for lemon zest and ginger, a spoon or cookie scoop, a baking sheet or tray, and parchment paper.