Energy Bites - Healthy Power Snack

No-bake energy bites pack a lot of nutrition and make the perfect grab and go snack, after workout pick me up, quick breakfast, or even a sweet treat.

Packed with protein, power bites boost metabolism and increase fat burn.  Healthy fats allow these bites to be filling and help reduce inflammation.,Omega-3 fatty acids, found in sources such as hemp hearts, chia seeds, and nuts feed both brain and heart-health.

Made from whole foods, they contain no gluten, dairy, added refined sugars or artificial ingredients. Many commercial protein bars are loaded with processed ingredients and chemical additives that the body doesn’t know how to digest.  When you make your own energy  snacks, you know exactly what is going in them.  Your body will love you for it!

Energy bites are made with simple, easy-to-find, whole food ingredients, including:

• All-natural peanut butter: a delicious source of protein and healthy fats. One serving equals 7 grams of protein. Can use any other nut butter of choice.
• Gluten free oatmeal: rich in protein, nutrients and soluble fiber which helps to reduce cholesterol.
• Flax seed: Just 1 tablespoon of flax seed provides roughly 8 grams of fiber. Flax seed is loaded with healthy fats, fiber and nutrients.
• Honey (nature’s sweetener rich in antioxidants and healthy when used in moderation)
• Dark chocolate chips (another powerful antioxidant, rich in fiber, iron, magnesium, copper manganese and good for you in moderation)

 
To make these energy bites simply combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir with a big spoon, or if you really want to add some love, use your hands!  Place in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes so they are easier to roll. Then shape your energy bites into 1-inch balls and store in your refrigerator for up to 1 week or freezer for up to 3 months (if they can last that long!).

Recipe
Ingredients:

• 1 cup gluten free old fashioned oats
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (no sugar added)
• 1/2 cup organic shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup ground flax seeds
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (my preference Enjoy Life. Only 2 ingredients, unsweetened chocolate, cane sugar)
• 2 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup

 
Variations:

• If you have a peanut allergy, try almond or cashew butter
• Substitute raisins or Craisins instead of chips.
• Substitute Chia seeds for the flax seeds
• If recipe is too dry, add more honey. If too sticky, add more oats.

Have fun experimenting – and enjoy!