This Apricot Balls Recipe Is the Perfect Pre-Gym Snack

As much as we hate to face reality, most of the Christmas goodies are gone, and it’s probably time to start living on something more nutritious than candy canes and Christmas cookies. If you’re finding it hard to wean yourself off the festive sugar feasting, look no further than these sticky, sweet apricot bites. They satisfy that sweet tooth while still being packed full of goodness. Take a couple out with you for a smart afternoon snack or to give you an energy boost before the gym. Or the gym you’ve managed to squeeze into your tiny apartment. Five ingredients and 15 minutes is all you need to make enough of these bite-size snacks for a whole week!

Ingredients:
Makes 30-35 apricot balls

  • — ½ cup whole blanched almonds (without skins)
  • — ½ cup rolled oats
  • — 1/8 teaspoon almond extract
  • — 1 packed cup dried apricots
  • — 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

Instructions:

1. Place the blanched almonds in a food processor and pulse until they turn to fine crumbs (keep an eye on them, as they’ll turn to a paste if you pulse for too long).

2. Add in the oats, almond extract and apricots and pulse again until the mixture becomes sticky and starts to clump together.

3. Place the shredded coconut on a plate. Scoop out a heaped teaspoon of the apricot mixture and roll into a ball in your hands. Roll in the shredded coconut and place on a plate or tray. Repeat until all of the mixture is used up.

  1. Place the blanched almonds in a food processor and pulse until they turn to fine crumbs (keep an eye on them, as they’ll turn to a paste if you pulse for too long). Add in the oats, almond extract and apricots and pulse again until the mixture becomes sticky and starts to clump together.
  2. Place the shredded coconut on a plate. Scoop out a heaped teaspoon of the apricot mixture and roll into a ball in your hands. Roll in the shredded coconut and place on a plate or tray. Repeat until all of the mixture is used up.
  3. Stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator or at room temperature. These energy balls should last for one week.

Show us photos of your favorite pre-gym snack on Instagram + using hashtag #iamcreative.

There are plenty of Trader Joe’s snacks I could easily eat the entire package of, like the Milk Chocolate Covered Honeycomb Candy and the Ghost Pepper Potato Chips – but they’re definitely not intended to be eaten in a single sitting at the cost of a gnarly stomachache.

But, TJ’s is constantly innovating, and their newest snack surprisingly defies all expectations: the serving size is actually the entire package. Fans are nothing short of intrigued.

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One bag of Trader Joe’s Crispy Dried Watermelon is packed with 1.5 pounds of vacuum-dried watermelon strips, though you wouldn’t guess it at first glance. TJ’s calls it “a true feat of physics,” which is truly enough reason for me to give ‘em a try.

Another notable aspect of this new snack is that each bite doesn’t lose its sweet melon flavor, even though all the moisture is gone. Of course, the most important feature is its serving size being 1 package.

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Trader Joe’s Crispy Dried Watermelon isn’t yet featured on the grocer’s website, though it’s definitely gained some buzz on social media platforms like Reddit. One user shared their love for the wacky newcomer snack in this thread, saying: “without a doubt, the best thing I’ve ever had from Trader Joe's. It is sooo unbelievable.”

Reddit

A few more users chimed in with praise for the snack, while others remained quite skeptical of its quality and taste.

“I like them,” one person wrote. “It reminded me of sweet plantain chips, except watermelon.”

“You’re the only person I’ve ever seen actually enjoy it,” another user commented.

“I’m glad someone is enjoying it! Our crew sampled it and we all hated it, that’s hilarious,” one more person said.

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The same user posted a few photos with their comments about the Crispy Dried Watermelon, with one capturing the nutrition facts label on the package. One serving of the sweet snack (the entire bag) has 150 calories, 15mg sodium, 35 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of fiber, and 3 grams of protein.

The only real caveat to its miraculous one-bag serving size is it contains 31g of sugar – so, if you’re watching your sugar intake, it might be best to snack on this one slowly.

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In addition to simply munching on the Crispy Dried Watermelon on its own, TJ’s suggests crushing the pieces to use as a cocktail garnish or even blending it in a food processor with heavy cream and powdered sugar for a watermelon-flavored homemade frosting.

Would you try this wacky Trader Joe's snack? Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to discover more buzzy TJ's items!

As much as I've written about Reese Witherspoon's book club, you'd think I was on a first name basis with her (wishful thinking)! But, the truth is that it's the reason I rediscovered reading for fun. As informational as books can be, there's also joy, anguish, fear — and even spicy romance — to lose ourselves in. I'm become a firm believer in holding on to things that bring us joy so if your book stash is overflowing, you're going to love Reese's January pick for 2025.

Learn about Reese Witherspoon's Book Club pick for January 2025!

Amazon

The Three Lives of Cate Kay by Kate Fagan (New Release)

Cate Kay's a literary genius who's cracked the code of keeping readers engaged in her written work. She's also secured a film franchise that's made fans go wild. But, no one's ever seen Cate Kay or talked to her. She's an enigma on purpose.
You see, 'Cate Kay' and her bestie Amanda made plans to live lavish lives in California. They were so sure everything would work out until something awful happens that forces 'Cate Kay' to leave her real identity behind.

It's not until something forces her to make peace with where she comes from that 'Cate Kay' decides it's time to stop running from who she is.

Reese's Book Club

Here's What Reese Witherspoon Had To Say About The Three Lives of Cate Kay

Reese Witherspoon never shies away from telling her adoring fans why she chose a book and this month is no different. On her book club's official Instagram page, she wrote: "Have you ever felt like you were living more than one life? That’s exactly what Cate Kay is grappling with in our January pick, The Three Lives of Cate Kay by @KateFagan3. She’s a literary sensation, the face behind a blockbuster film trilogy, but her life isn’t what it seems. This story swept me away with its big dreams, love, and unexpected twists."

Visit our storefront to check out more of our top book picks!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

If you think you already know all the best vegetarian snacks at Trader Joe's, think again, because the people of Reddit has something to say about every top-tier choice you can find between the aisles. From savory picks to sweet treats(my fave!), I just discovered a ton of new and surprising finds via Reddit, and I’m a very frequent TJ’s shopper.

You’re definitely not going to want to miss these 16 vegetarian snacks at Trader Joe's on your next trip!

Trader Joe's

1. Organic Roasted Vegetable Pizza

This vegetarian pizza has it going on with tons of roasted eggplant, zucchini, red onion, grilled yellow and red peppers, and garlic piled on top. One Redditor mentioned it was their favorite vegetarian find at TJ's and that they like to enjoy it with the Crumbled Goat Cheese once fully baked. Yum!

Trader Joe's

2. Crunchy Curls

The Crunchy Curls were mentioned several times because they truly make the best snack. These bites are made with lentil flour and potato starch to give a delicious but nutritious crunch.

Trader Joe's

3. Kimbap

This "veggie-forward" kimbap roll is made with Korean tofu to give it an extra boost of protein. All it takes to make is 2 short minutes in the microwave, so it's super easy to fix as a mid-day snack.

Trader Joe's

4. Mini Mushroom Tartelettes

If you're all about bite-sized snacks, the Mini Mushroom Tartelettes are perfect for you. Between a flaky crust lies so many satisfying flavors from the blend of white and shiitake mushrooms, chopped garlic and shallot, and Parmesan, cream cheese, and ricotta.

Trader Joe's

5. Almond Chipotle Dip

“This dip is my fave,” one Redditor noted about Trader Joe's Almond Chipotle Dip. You can easily use the spicy dip to dunk veggie sticks and crackers in or make it a spread for wraps and sandwiches. One user even noted that it tastes similar to Bitchin' Sauce, which goes great with everything.

Trader Joe's

6. Vegetable Bird's Nests

As a Trader Joe's OG since 2003, the Vegetable Bird's Nests are totally worth crunching on, and many Redditors noted it as their favorite vegetarian snack. The lightly-battered combination of julienned onions, carrots, and kale gets so tasty in the air fryer.

Trader Joe's

7. Thai Vegetable Gyoza

Gyoza is equally as good for a snack as it is for lunch or dinner. These dumplings are simply packed with veggies, plus they're extremely simple to make in the steamer, frying pan, or microwave.

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8. Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

TJ's Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies are ahh-mazing. Next time you're in need of a sweet treat, swing by their bakery section to find tons of delicious vegetarian snacks!

Trader Joe's

9. Scandinavian Swimmers

These marine-themed gummies come in all sorts of shapes that will bring you just as much joy as their sweet flavor and chewy texture will.

Trader Joe's

10. Eggplant Garlic Spread

Described as a "sleeper hit" on the Trader Joe's website, this eggplant spread can work with a variety of dishes like sandwiches, wraps, toasts, pastas, pizzas, crackers, and crostinis. Bonus points since it's absolutely vegetarian-approved!

Trader Joe's

11. Organic Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls

No other breakfast food speaks to me quite like the classic cinnamon roll. TJ's fully organic version is no exception – they're perfectly fluffy and sweet to enjoy any time of day!

Trader Joe's

12. Vegan Banana Bread

This loaf boasts a "fabulously sweet" flavor and a "dense, moist texture" that you might not even guess is fully vegan and vegetarian if you didn't know already. Try enjoying it slice-by-slice with a smattering of nut butter and cinnamon for absolute amazingness (and a protein boost!).

Trader Joe's

13. Mini Vegetable Samosas

The Mini Vegetable Samosas came up several times as Redditors discussed their favorite vegetarian Trader Joe's snacks. They're essentially the best savory pastries around, stuffed with a "curry-like mixture" of peas, carrots, potatoes, lentils, onions, and Indian spices. They are astounding when you cook 'em in the air fryer!

Trader Joe's

14. Black Bean & Cheese Taquitos

It doesn't get more basic than a taquito when it comes to easy snacks. These frozen, pre-made rolls are made with just black beans and cheese, so all vegetarians can happily enjoy them! Trader Joe's recommends you eat them with their famed Jalapeño Sauce, which we can confirm is downright addicting.

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15. Korean Scallion Pancakes

One Redditor said that TJ's Korean Scallion Pancakes are worth the try for vegetarians, especially when topped with arugula and a fried egg for a more filling snack or meal.

Trader Joe's

16. Hashbrowns

"The hash brown patties are never wrong 🤓,” one Redditor said. And it's true – these hash browns from Trader Joe's make a great snack no matter the time of day. They work well as a savory breakfast pairing or on top of salads. They're even delicious when enjoyed alone!

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more amazing Trader Joe's products!

After spending decades in the entertainment industry, some celebs like Pamela Anderson have opted for a makeup-free look. No one can forget when she stunned photographers right before Paris Fashion Week's Vivienne Westwood show last year by rocking a bare face. She told Vogue France, she wasn't thinking about not "wearing any makeup." However, she didn't want to "compete with the clothes" she was wearing. She felt "freedom" from not trying to "be the prettiest girl in the room" which speaks volumes to us!

Now, Pamela continues to embrace the no-makeup life — and not only does she look gorgeous, but she seems SO happy! The star shared recently how this lifestyle change impacts her day-to-day, and it's honestly incredibly relatable. Here's what she had to say!

Here's what Pamela Anderson just said about adopting a no-makeup life!

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1. It saves her a lot of time.

Pamela Anderson stopped by the Live with Kelly and Markshow to talk about filming The Last Showgirl, her childhood, and how not wearing makeup has been beneficial for her. While her makeup-free clip from the episode isn't available on YouTube, PEOPLE reports hosts Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos asking her how her decision has changed her life.

Ripa started with, "You don't travel with a glam squad. How liberating is that for you," while Consuelos followed with, "And how much time have you gotten back?"

The former Baywatch star said she's "saved a lot of time" and admitted that her sons "used to say that I spent half my life in a makeup chair."

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2. She feels more focused in general.

Pamela Anderson also admitted things feel easier for her in general. "I feel like I could focus better when I did the film, too." And her life outside of that? She said she's "gotten out of wearing makeup and it's been fun."

It's interesting because Kelly Ripa shared she's been inspired by Pamela Anderson's makeup-free choice. She remembers not wearing makeup for a short while and said to herself, "'Pamela Anderson is a genius." Kelly even thought for a moment, "This is the way to live." We're so here for it!

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3. She lives for a glam moment, but appreciates simplicity now.

Pamela's all for being makeup-free now, but she's not bashing glam moments. She actually "loved it" because "it's fun when you're new in the business and you get all this attention." She's just at a point where she's "done that" and wants to "simplify and keep it low key."

She really does "love being elegant, sophisticated" but has found what "works best" for her.

Is Pamela Anderson inspiring you to embrace a no-makeup life too? Let us know on Facebook!

Do you hear wedding bells? Because after Tom Holland and Zendaya's engagement, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's engagement, and those Suki Waterhouse and Robert Pattinson marriage rumors, it appears Hollywood does. And after all those Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift engagement rumors, Travis just spilled on his ideal wedding timeline — that's right, it appears our favorite IRL rom-com couple could be thinking about tying the knot!

Here's what Travis Kelce had to say about his least favorite time of year to get married.

Travis Kelce wants to avoid THIS wedding season for one reason.

@britandco#greenscreen do you think any of these will come true?! #taylorswift#traviskelce#tayvis#travistaylor#thealchemy#prpredictions♬ the alchemy ts sped up - Swiftie_Jean-Alex 😁✨

On a new episode of the New Heights podcast he hosts with brother Jason, Travis Kelce revealed he would like to avoid an autumn wedding day. And the reason is literally so on brand it makes me laugh.

After a listener revealed over the phone that his girlfriend wants to schedule their wedding during football season, Travis admits that "I actually don't know people who've gotten married in the fall."

"My friends always do it in the summer," he says. "I've seen weddings everywhere but the fall. So, I'm not sure if the fall is a good wedding season."

The weather of an autumn wedding (not to mention the incredible aesthetic of the wedding photos!!) have always made it seem so dreamy. Plus, I've attended more than one summer wedding (some on the beach!) and it can get toasty under the summer sun. Spring then, Travis?

Travis' comments come after he responded to rumors that he'd pop the question to girlfriend Taylor Swift. During the June 1 Big Slick Celebrity Weekend's onstage comedy sketch, Ted Lasso star Jason Sudeikis asked Travis about a potential engagement. "Hey Travis, real talk, OK, just the guys here," Jason says. "When are you going to make an honest woman out of her?"

"Guys," Travis says, "you're really pushing it." It's a pretty kind way to say back off!! I'm excited for whenever Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce tell us they're engaged — should they choose to share at all.

Check out the latest news on Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's relationship!