As any seasoned parent knows, the success of a family outing often hinges on one simple factor: snacks. Whether you’re headed to the slopes, the sledding hill, or a local hiking trail, having the right fuel on hand can make or break the experience. That’s why we’re always on the lookout for nutritious, packable treats that keep energy up and complaints down. Enter: Cocoa Power Balls.
This no-bake snack checks all the boxes for busy families on the go. It’s wholesome, kid-approved, and easy to throw together in minutes. Even better, it travels well—no refrigeration required—and it’s made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Here at Momtrends, we’re all about encouraging families to spend more time outside. That might mean hitting the slopes in winter, biking through fall foliage, or enjoying a sunny spring hike. Regardless of the season, having a go-to, grab-and-go snack like Coco Power Balls can make getting out the door easier and help everyone stay energized longer.
Coco Power Balls Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups of oats
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup nut butter of your choice (you may need slightly more based on your desired texture)
- ¼ cup chocolate chips or chocolate chunks
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- â…“ cup ground flaxseed
Method:
- In a bowl, combine dry ingredients.
- Mix in the maple syrup and nut butter.
- Mix/knead with hands until all ingredients are fully combined (oats should not be rolling around the bowl—everything should stick together).
- Roll into balls (roughly donut hole-sized).
- Enjoy!
Why We Love Coco Power Balls for Outdoor Fun
Coco Power Balls are packed with fiber and protein from oats, nut butter, and flaxseed—offering just the right blend of nutrition to keep little legs moving. The cocoa powder and chocolate chips make them feel like a treat, while the absence of refined sugar means parents can feel good about handing them out on the trail or after school.
They’re also highly customizable. Swap in sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version, or add a handful of dried fruit for extra texture and flavor. The recipe is forgiving, so you can adjust ingredients to suit dietary needs or taste preferences. And since they’re rolled by hand, this is a fun one to make with the kids—just be warned: little hands may sneak more than a few bites during the mixing process.
Perfect for Packs, Lunchboxes, and Beyond
One of the best things about Coco Power Balls is their versatility. Stash a few in a snack container for a ski day or pack them into your child’s lunchbox for a mid-day boost. They also make great pre-practice fuel for after-school sports.
But here’s our pro tip: label everything. When you’re on the go with kids, containers, water bottles, and gear have a funny way of disappearing. That’s where our friends at Mabel’s Labels come in. Their durable, waterproof, and dishwasher-safe labels are a game changer for busy families. Label your snack containers, outerwear, ski helmets—anything that leaves the house with your child. USE CODE SKIMOMS to save 15% off your order.
More Recipes for Your Outdoor Adventures
Check out our homemade granola recipe here.
The post Power Up Your Outdoor Adventures with a Cocoa Power Ball Recipe appeared first on Mom Trends.
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