Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Energy Bites: A Burst of Energy in Every Bite
Keeping a stash of these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Energy Bites on hand is a must in my kitchen. They’re quick to assemble, incredibly convenient, and offer the perfect little boost when you need an energy lift. Whether it's for my own afternoon pick-me-up or for family members asking for a snack, these bites come in handy. With staple ingredients like oats, peanut butter, and honey always stocked in my pantry, I can whip up a batch anytime. They’re especially great to have when life gets busy and you need a quick, wholesome snack.
The process is simple: mix everything in one bowl, roll the mixture into little bites, and chill them for a while. No baking required! They’re healthier than store-bought snacks, and the recipe is flexible enough to add other mix-ins like seeds or dried fruits. Snack time never tasted so good!
Did You Know?
Energy bites have become a favorite snack for busy people, not just for their convenience but also for their nutritional value. The combination of oats, peanut butter, and flaxseed in these bites provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. They’re easy to make, transport well, and are perfect for a quick energy boost during a busy day.
Yield: 12 Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
Instructions
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, mini chocolate chips, and ground flaxseed.
Personal Tip: Make sure to mix well to ensure the peanut butter and honey coat the oats evenly.
2. Mix Well:
Stir until all ingredients are fully combined.
Personal Tip: You can slightly warm the peanut butter and honey to make mixing easier.
3. Form Bites:
Using a tablespoon, scoop the mixture and roll it into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Personal Tip: If the mixture is sticky, wet your hands slightly to make rolling easier.
4. Chill:
Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Personal Tip: Store in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 150, Protein: 2g, Carbohydrates: 22g, Sugars: 14g, Total Fat: 6g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Sodium: 60mg, Fiber: 0g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
1. Use Natural Peanut Butter:
Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils. It’s healthier and usually has a stronger, more authentic peanut flavor.
2. Bulk Buy Ingredients:
Purchase oats, honey, and flaxseed in bulk to save money. These pantry staples have a long shelf life and can be used in many different recipes beyond these energy bites.
3. Add Variety:
Try adding different mix-ins like dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, or chia seeds to introduce new flavors and textures.
4. Homemade Oat Flour:
For a smoother texture, pulse rolled oats in a food processor to create oat flour, then use it in the recipe.
5. Portion Control:
Use a small cookie scoop to portion the bites evenly. This not only ensures uniformity but also helps with portion control.
6. Quick Chill:
In a rush? Place the bites in the freezer for 10-15 minutes instead of refrigerating them for 30 minutes to save time.
7. Storage Tips:
Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for up to three months. They’re perfect for packing in lunches or enjoying as an afternoon snack.
8. Healthier Sweeteners:
Try substituting honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly version of this recipe.
9. Protein Boost:
For an extra protein punch, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mixture before rolling into balls.
10. Kid-Friendly:
These energy bites are great for kids, and you can get them involved in the process by having them help roll the mixture into balls. It’s a fun activity, and they’ll enjoy eating the treats they helped make!
Let’s Learn About Honey
Honey is a natural sweetener made by bees from the nectar of flowers. It contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which contribute to its health benefits. Raw honey is less processed and contains more nutrients compared to commercially processed honey, which is often pasteurized. When choosing honey, opt for organic or raw varieties, especially if you plan to use it in recipes where the flavor of honey will stand out, like these energy bites. Honey’s unique flavor also depends on the types of flowers the bees visit, giving each batch a slightly different taste.