Peanut Butter Chocolate Energy Bites Quick and Easy Recipe

Peanut Butter Chocolate Energy Bites are a quick, no-bake snack that taste just like peanut butter oatmeal cookie dough. Packed with wholesome ingredients, they’re perfect for meal prep, on-the-go snacking, or a healthier sweet treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These energy bites are simple to make, requiring just a few pantry staples and no baking. They’re naturally sweetened with honey, full of fiber and protein from oats and peanut butter, and customizable with nutritious add-ins like flax or chia seeds. Plus, they’re kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and taste like dessert while still being nourishing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3/4 cup natural peanut butter
1 3/4 cup old-fashioned or quick-cooking oats
1/3 cup honey (or slightly more if needed to bind)
1/3 cup semisweet or dark chocolate chips (mini preferred)
Optional: 1/4 cup wheat bran, hemp seeds, flax seeds, or chia seeds

Directions

1. If using refrigerated peanut butter, microwave it for 20–30 seconds until softened, then let it cool slightly so it won’t melt the chocolate.

2. Add oats, honey, chocolate chips, and any optional mix-ins. Stir for 2–3 minutes until well combined. If the mixture feels too sticky, refrigerate for 1 hour or freeze for 20 minutes.

3. Line a baking dish or cookie sheet with parchment or wax paper. Scoop or roll the mixture into about 24 tablespoon-sized balls. Place in a single layer on the baking sheet.

4. Refrigerate for 1 hour or freeze for at least 20 minutes before transferring to a storage bag or container.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 energy bites.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Swap peanut butter for almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.

• Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a vegan version.

• Mix in shredded coconut, dried cranberries, or raisins for extra flavor.

• Use protein powder to boost the protein content.

• Try white chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate instead of semisweet.

Storage/Reheating

Store energy bites in an airtight container or Ziploc bag. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply thaw for a few minutes at room temperature before eating. No reheating is required.

FAQs

What are energy bites?

Energy bites are small, no-bake snacks made with nutrient-dense ingredients like oats, nut butter, and seeds.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, use a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes, instant oats work fine, though they will give the bites a softer texture.

Can I make these nut-free?

Yes, substitute sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter for peanut butter.

How do I keep the mixture from being too sticky?

Chill the mixture in the fridge or freezer to firm it up before rolling.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients to make a larger batch.

Do I need a food processor to make these?

No, all you need is a mixing bowl and a spoon.

Are these good for kids?

Yes, they’re a great healthy snack option for kids and can be adapted to be nut-free for school lunches.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes, adding a scoop of protein powder works well. Just add a bit more honey if the mixture becomes too dry.

How many energy bites equal a serving?

The nutrition is calculated per bite, so you can enjoy one or two depending on your snacking needs.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Chocolate Energy Bites are the perfect mix of sweet, chewy, and satisfying. They’re quick to prepare, freezer-friendly, and endlessly versatile, making them an excellent snack to keep on hand for busy days. With wholesome ingredients and a cookie-dough-like taste, they’ll easily become a go-to favorite for the whole family.

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