No-Bake Energy Bites (Only 10 Ingredients)

Name: No-Bake Energy Bites (Only 10 Ingredients)
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; ⅓ cup dried cranberries; ⅔ cups coconut; ½ cup ground flaxseed; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional); ⅓ cup chocolate chips; ½ cup peanut butter; ⅓ cup honey (or maple syrup); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These no-bake Energy Bites are the ultimate grab-and-go snack! Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, peanut butter, dried cranberries, and honey, they’re chewy, nutty, and perfectly sweet. Whether you need a quick breakfast, midday pick-me-up, or post-workout treat, these healthy energy balls have you covered.

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Why This Recipe Works

Energy bites are my go-to snack for busy weeks—they’re quick, easy, and packed with wholesome ingredients. With zero baking required (just mix, roll, and chill!), they come together in 10 minutes and make the perfect grab-and-go option.

The combination of oats, peanut butter, and flaxseed keeps you fueled, while honey and dark chocolate chips add just the right touch of natural sweetness. I also love to add a sprinkle of shredded coconut to give them a chewy texture with a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Plus, they’re endlessly customizable! You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your cravings or dietary needs. And the best part? They’re kid-approved! Not only will your little ones love snacking on them, but they can also help roll them into bite-sized treats!

Ingredients

Rolled Oats: Make up the base, adding tons of fiber. For the best texture, opt for old-fashioned rolled oats (if you have gluten sensitivities, use certified gluten-free oats).
Dried Cranberries: Add a tangy sweetness and a perfectly chewy texture.
Shredded Coconut: Provides a tropical, slightly chewy texture. Unsweetened coconut works best to keep the sugar levels in check.
Ground Flaxseed: This omega-3 and fiber powerhouse helps bind the energy bites and boosts their nutritional value. You can buy pre-ground flaxseeds or grind your own.
Kosher Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Chia Seeds: Optional, but I love to add chia seeds for extra fiber and a crunchy texture.
Chocolate Chips: Bring a hint of indulgence (it’s all about balance)! I prefer to use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor, but milk chocolate chips will work, too.
Peanut Butter: The glue that holds everything together (while adding more healthy fats and protein). Use natural peanut butter for the best consistency and flavor.
Honey: Naturally sweetens the bites while also binding the ingredients together.
Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.

Mixing batter and dividing it onto a pan.

Instructions

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, cranberries, shredded coconut, ground flaxseed, salt, chia seeds (if using), and chocolate chips. Stir well to distribute everything evenly.
Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until the ingredients are well combined and starting to stick together.
Roll the Energy Bites: Using a 1-inch cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and roll it into small balls between your hands. If the mixture is sticky, lightly coat your hands with olive oil or cooking spray.
Chill the Bites: To help the energy bites firm up, place them in an airtight container and chill for at least 30 minutes. Keep them in the fridge or freezer for grab-and-go snacks!

Substitutions & Variations

Oat-Free: Quick oats will work in a pinch, though the texture will vary.
Dried Fruits: To change things up, swap dried cranberries for raisins, dried cherries, dried apricots, or chopped dates.
Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nut-free version.
Sweetener: Instead of honey or maple syrup, try agave or date syrup.
Protein Boost: Add 1-2 tablespoons of protein powder for an extra protein punch.
Superfoods: Add hemp seeds, goji berries, or cacao nibs for an extra nutrient boost.
Extra Crunch: Toss in chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans for added texture.

Storing & Reheating

Keep your energy bites fresh and ready for snacking with these simple storage tips:

Fridge: Store the bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This keeps them firm and prevents them from becoming too soft.
Freezer: You can freeze energy bites in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.
Prep Ahead: These energy balls are perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch and store them in portioned containers for easy, on-the-go snacks throughout the week.

Expert Tips

Don’t Skip the Binders: Peanut butter and honey help hold the energy bites together. If they seem dry, add a little extra peanut butter or honey and try rolling again.
Lightly Oil Your Hands: To prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands, spray them with olive oil or rub a bit of coconut oil on them.
Chop the Fruit: If you’re using large dried fruits, chop them into smaller pieces so they mix evenly into every bite.
Customize the Texture: Prefer chunkier bites? Keep the oats whole. Want a smoother texture? Pulse everything in a food processor for a finer consistency.

FAQs

Why are my energy bites falling apart?

If your energy bites aren’t holding together, try adding more peanut butter or honey to act as a stronger binder. Chilling the mixture for 5-10 minutes before rolling can also help!

Can I make these without peanut butter?

Yes! You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?’

I don’t recommend steel-cut oats for this recipe. They have a much coarser texture and don’t absorb moisture the same way, making your energy bites too chewy and difficult to bind together. If you only have steel-cut oats, try pulsing them in a food processor to break them down slightly.

If you loved these energy bites, check out some more of my favorite sweets that are great for on-the-go snacking:

If you try these Energy Bites, let me know what you think! Rate and review this recipe in the comments below. Don’t forget to take a picture and tag me on Instagram @lenaskitchenblog!