I revamped my classic energy bite recipe the other day, and came up with these Cocoa Nutty Energy Bites! I decided to experiment and I don’t think im going back!:) It really took my original energy balls to the next level for me. Gluten and dairy free snacks, filled with good fats, and carbs. My toddler loves them too, so that’s a win win! The chocolaty cocoa taste, mixed with coconut and peanut butter flavors make these energy bites an exciting and filling midday snack!
What do I need for my Coco Nutty Energy Bites?
- Food Processor or Mixing Bowl
- Whole Oats
- Shredded Coconut
- Chia Seeds
- Cocoa Powder
- All Natural Peanut Butter
- Maple Syrup or Honey
- Coconut OR Vanilla Extract
- Crushed Pecans
- Mini Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips
Tips for making Energy Balls:
This gluten free snack is easily mixed and ready for the refrigerator in under ten minutes. The “dough” will be sticky, so my best tip is to refrigerate and make sure it is nice and cold before rolling into balls. I recommend leaving the cocoa nutty energy bite dough in the refrigerator for 20 minutes, but depending on how cold your fridge is, it made need a little longer. You don’t want the dough to be solid, because then the balls will crumble as you try to form them. Just make sure it is cold, but still maliable.
Another tip I have is to pay attention to your energy ball dough. The maple syrup or honey you use, mixed with the other ingredients can sometimes differ in consistency. If you feel like your dough is a little bit dry, just add a drizzle more of your choice of maple syrup or honey. This will give it a nice smooth and moist consistency.
Serving/ Eating your Cocoa Nutty Energy Bites-
I always try to keep my snack balanced. Pairing my good fats with protein options or carbs. Pairing these cocoa nutty energy bites with another food group will help your snack keep you full for longer. I like to eat these energy bites with some of my favorite fruits or pairing them with a protein drink!
Cocoa Nutty Energy Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup Oatmeal whole oats, rolled, or quick
- 1/2 cup Shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 tbsp Chia seeds flax seeds work too
- 1/4 cup Cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup All natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup Maple Syrup or Honey or half of each
- 1 tsp Coconut Extract or sub with vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup Crushed Pecans
- 2 tbsp Mini Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips *optional*
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a food processor or a mixing bowl. Mix together (in food processor or by hand) until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- *If there are still dry areas in energy bite batter try adding a little bit more maple syrup, honey, or peanut butter.
- Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
- Remove from refrigerator and roll into one inch balls in diameter.
- Enjoy!