Easy Macadamia Cherry Energy Balls for Healthy Holiday Travel

Complete Nutrition in a Travel-Friendly Bite

Having nourishing food on hand means you can fully enjoy every moment of your holiday travel. These Macadamia Cherry Energy Balls are your delicious travel companion, providing real fuel exactly when you need it.

Why These Energy Balls Are Perfect for Holiday Travel

Travel-Ready Convenience These store in the fridge for up to 10 days and they’re perfectly stable at room temperature for several days. Ideal for tucking into your carry-on or travel bag.

Sustained Energy Thanks to healthy fats from macadamia nuts and protein from seeds, these balls provide steady, lasting energy. The natural sugars from dates and cherries offer an immediate boost. The nuts and seeds keep you satisfied and energized for hours.

Complete Nutrition in Every Bite Each ball delivers fiber, healthy fats, plant-based protein, and minerals.

The Recipe

Makes: About 20 balls (perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout your journey)

Ingredients

• 3⁄4 cup Medjool dates, pitted

• 3⁄4 cup macadamia nuts

• 1⁄3 cup sunflower seeds, raw

• 1⁄3 cup pumpkin seeds, raw

• 1⁄3 cup hemp seeds, raw

• 3⁄4 cup dried cherries

• 1⁄2 cup raisins

• 3⁄4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

• 1⁄2 tsp cinnamon

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 tsp raw honey

• 1⁄4 tsp sea salt

• 1⁄4 cup cocoa nibs (optional but oh so good—yes, there’s a touch of caffeine here if you’d like that extra boost!)

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients except cocoa nibs to a food processor.

2. Process until the mixture comes together and forms a loose ball. The texture should be slightly sticky and hold together when pressed, but not overly wet.

3. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl.

4. Mix in the cocoa nibs by hand (if using).

5. Using your hands, roll the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture needs help holding together, add a few drops of water. If it’s too wet, add a bit more coconut.

6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. Spoiler alert: They’re so good they never last that long!

Make-Ahead Strategy

Batch these before your trip. They actually taste better after sitting in the fridge for a day or two as the flavors meld together. Make them 2-3 days before departure, and you’ll have one satisfying element of your travel prep complete.

Customization Ideas

Nut-Free: Substitute sunflower seed butter for the macadamia nuts and add extra hemp or pumpkin seeds.

Extra Protein: Add 2 tablespoons of your favorite plant-based protein powder.

Seasonal Twist: Swap dried cherries for cranberries for a festive holiday flavor.

Morning Energy: Keep the cocoa nibs for a gentle caffeine boost during early morning departures.

This holiday season, travel well-prepared with real food that nourishes and sustains you. Every bite supports your body’s natural rhythms and helps you show up fully for the moments that matter.

Looking for more holiday travel wellness tips? Check out our complete guide to staying healthy during holiday travel.