Are you stressed out? Do you find yourself reaching for unhealthy snacks when your anxiety kicks in? Well, ditch the chips and try a healthier, more satisfying solution: **how to make apple stress balls**. These delicious and easy-to-make treats are packed with natural sugars and fiber, offering a guilt-free way to manage your stress.
3 Easy Ways to Make Apple Stress Balls
Feeling stressed? Need a quick and easy way to relieve tension? Look no further than homemade apple stress balls! These squishy, fragrant delights are perfect for squeezing, kneading, and just plain enjoying.
Before: You might be thinking, “Apple stress balls? That sounds weird!”. But trust me, they’re surprisingly satisfying. They’re also a fun and creative way to use up leftover apples, and they make great gifts.
After: Imagine holding a soft, fragrant ball in your hand, its smooth texture calming your nerves. You squeeze it gently, releasing the tension in your muscles. The apple scent fills your senses, bringing a sense of peace and relaxation. This is the magic of apple stress balls.
Bridge: Ready to give it a try? Here are three easy ways to make apple stress balls at home:
Method 1: The Classic Apple Sauce Stress Ball
This method is simple and uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup salt
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Mix well until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
- Form the dough into balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Let the balls air dry for at least 24 hours, or until firm.
Tips:
- For a more intense apple flavor, use homemade applesauce instead of store-bought.
- Add a few drops of essential oil, like cinnamon or vanilla, for extra fragrance.
- If you want your apple stress balls to be colorful, add a few drops of food coloring to the dough.
Method 2: The Air Fryer Apple Stress Ball
This method takes advantage of the air fryer’s ability to quickly cook and dry the dough.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup salt
- Air fryer
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Mix well until a smooth dough forms.
- Form the dough into balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Place the balls in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
- Air fry at 200 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, or until the balls are firm and slightly browned.
Tips:
- Be careful not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can make the balls cook unevenly.
- If your air fryer doesn’t have a temperature setting, you can use the “reheat” or “bake” setting.
Method 3: The No-Bake Apple Stress Ball
This method is perfect for those who don’t want to wait for the dough to dry. It involves using a combination of applesauce and cornstarch to create a firm and pliable dough.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup salt
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the applesauce, cornstarch, and salt.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Form the cooled mixture into balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
Tips:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more cornstarch, a tablespoon at a time.
- For a smoother texture, you can blend the cooked mixture with an immersion blender before forming it into balls.
How to make apple stress balls is a simple and fun activity. You can customize the texture and flavor of your apple stress balls by experimenting with different ingredients and techniques.
Here’s what you can add or change:
- Flavor: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices to the dough for a more complex flavor.
- Texture: Add a few tablespoons of oats or almond flour to the dough for a coarser texture.
- Color: Add a few drops of food coloring to the dough to create vibrant hues.
- Shape: Roll the dough into different shapes, like hearts, or stars.
No matter what method you choose, your apple stress balls will be a soothing and delightful addition to your life. So go ahead, give it a try. You might just be surprised at how much you enjoy them!
