Peanut Butter Oatmeal Energy Bites are a quick, no-bake snack inspired by Simply Quinoa’s wholesome approach to healthy eating. These bite-sized treats are packed with nutty peanut butter, fiber-rich oats, and a touch of sweetness, making them perfect for a post-workout boost or an on-the-go breakfast. I whipped up a batch for a hiking trip, and they were a lifesaver—delicious, portable, and energizing. This simple recipe is endlessly customizable and ideal for busy lifestyles
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- ½ cup natural creamy peanut butter (no added sugar or oil)
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup or honey
- ¼ cup ground flaxseed
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (optional, or use vegan chips)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, ground flaxseed, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to mix well.
- In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter and maple syrup. Microwave for 15–20 seconds to soften, then stir in vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly with a spatula until a sticky dough forms.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips, if using.
- Refrigerate the mixture for 15 minutes to make it easier to roll.
- Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll into 12–14 one-inch balls with your hands. If sticky, lightly wet your hands to ease rolling.
- Place balls on a parchment-lined plate or tray. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set or freeze for 15 minutes for faster results.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Nutrition Facts
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Energy Bites These energy bites are a nutrient-dense snack, offering protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you full and energized.
- Servings: 12–14 bites
- Calories per bite: ~100 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
Preparation Time
These no-bake bites are ready in minutes, perfect for quick prep and easy snacking.
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Chill time: 15–30 minutes
- Total time: 25–40 minutes
How to Serve
- On-the-Go Snack: Pack in lunchboxes or gym bags for a quick energy boost.
- Post-Workout: Enjoy 1–2 bites after exercise for protein and carbs.
- Breakfast: Pair with yogurt or fruit for a balanced morning bite.
- Dessert: Serve as a healthier sweet treat after dinner.
- Kid-Friendly: Offer as an after-school snack with milk or juice.
Additional Tips
- Nut Butter Swap: Use almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for nut-free versions.
- Sweetener Options: Substitute maple syrup with agave or sugar-free syrup for keto-friendly bites.
- Add-Ins: Try dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for variety.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Easier Rolling: If the mixture is too sticky, chill longer or lightly oil hands with coconut oil.
Budgeting the Recipe
These energy bites are cost-effective, using pantry staples like oats and peanut butter. A bag of rolled oats costs ~$1–$2, and a jar of natural peanut butter is ~$3–$5. The total cost for 12–14 bites is around $4–$6, or $0.30–$0.50 per bite. Buy bulk oats and peanut butter or shop store brands to save more. Leftover ingredients can be used for baking or smoothies, maximizing value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Yes, quick oats work but may create a softer texture. Rolled oats give a chewier bite.
Q: How do I make these nut-free?
A: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nut-free option.
Q: Can I skip the chocolate chips?
A: Yes, omit them or replace with dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for less sugar.
Q: Why is my mixture too dry?
A: Add 1–2 tablespoons more peanut butter or maple syrup to bind it better.
Q: Can I make bars instead of balls?
A: Yes, press the mixture into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan, chill, and cut into bars.
PrintPeanut Butter Oatmeal Energy Bites | No Bake Energy Balls | Healthy Snack Recipe | Simply Quinoa
- Total Time: 25–40 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 12–14 bites
Description
These Peanut Butter Oatmeal Energy Bites are a nutrient-dense snack, offering protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you full and energized. These no-bake bites are ready in minutes, perfect for quick prep and easy snacking.
Ingredients
Rolled oats: 1 cup (certified gluten-free if needed)
Natural creamy peanut butter: ½ cup (no added sugar or oil)
Pure maple syrup or honey: ¼ cup
Ground flaxseed: ¼ cup
Mini chocolate chips: 2 tablespoons (optional, or use vegan chips)
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for warmth)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, ground flaxseed, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to mix well.
2. In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter and maple syrup. Microwave for 15–20 seconds to soften, then stir in vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly with a spatula until a sticky dough forms.
4. Fold in mini chocolate chips, if using.
5. Refrigerate the mixture for 15 minutes to make it easier to roll.
6. Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll into 12–14 one-inch balls with your hands. If sticky, lightly wet your hands to ease rolling.
7. Place balls on a parchment-lined plate or tray. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set or freeze for 15 minutes for faster results.
8. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack, No-Bake, Healthy
- Method: Mixing, Rolling, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: ~100 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: N/A
