Do you ever just want a snack that’s good for you, easy to make and doesn’t require a lot of prep work or time? Then these little gems are your answer! Think trail mix in cookie-ish form. I love these energy bites, not only are they incredibly easy to make, but you can make them ahead in bulk and freeze them and they keep extremely well. You don’t have to bake them and you can have them ready in minutes. Plus, they provide tons of nutrients and energy.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup creamy, natural peanut butter
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup dates
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats (not cooked)
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed meal
- 1/4 cup craisins
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Place the dates in a food processor and pulse until they are broken up enough to incorporate with the rest of the ingredients.
- Add the remaining ingredients to the food processor and pulse until well combined.
- Using a table spoon, or small ice cream scoop, scoop the mixture into your hand and roll into small balls about 1 to 1 1/2 inch. in diameter.
- Place the energy bites onto a cooking sheet and freeze for 10-15 minutes until they are not as sticky.
- Enjoy! Place remainder in a sealed tupperware container or ziploc bag and store in the fridge.
Tips: These bites are very versatile, so if you don’t like one of the ingredients, just swap it out for another. This is my favorite version, but experiment and find your own. (And then let me know what it is in the comments so I can try your delicious treat).
Be careful, they’re addicting! Even too much of a good thing isn’t always a good thing. If you are sensitive to flax, you may want to reduce the amount the recipe calls for or leave it out entirely. Try them and see what works best for you!
EXTRA TIP: For those breastfeeding mamas out there, a lot of these ingredients are exactly what you need to boost your milk supply. We all know how draining it can be to breastfeed, especially in the beginning. And those late nights when you’re starving and need something just to get you through until the morning….I’ll definitely be making a big batch to have ready in the freezer when Baby #2 arrives!