A Two-Hand Grab-and-Go Snack
These energy bites come together in five minutes with no oven and no clean-up marathon. Oats give them chew, peanut butter holds everything together, and honey adds just enough sweetness. I keep a batch in the fridge for the moment hunger strikes and it is too late to think clearly.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup finely chopped chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine everything. Stir the oats, peanut butter, honey, chocolate chips, flaxseed, vanilla, and salt in a large bowl until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pinched.
- Adjust if needed. If it is too dry, add a teaspoon of honey or water. If too sticky, add a spoonful of oats.
- Roll into bites. Chill the mixture for 10 minutes, then roll heaping teaspoons into 1-inch balls.
- Chill to set. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm, then store in an airtight container.
Flavor Variations
- Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist
- Swap chocolate chips for shredded coconut
- Use almond butter instead of peanut butter
- Stir in a spoonful of chia seeds for extra fiber
Storage
Keep in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze for up to two months. They are excellent straight from the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use old-fashioned and quick oats interchangeably?
Yes, quick oats make a softer bite and old-fashioned oats a chewier one; either works.
Are these allergy-friendly?
They contain peanuts by default, swap in sun butter or almond butter to change the allergen profile.