Description

Fuel your day with these satisfying and nutrient-dense energy bites. Inspired by DASH principles, they combine wholesome oats, unsalted almond butter, and natural sweetness for the perfect grab-and-go snack.

Ingredients

Scale

2 ⅔ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 ⅓ cups unsalted natural creamy almond butter
¼ cup pure maple syrup
3 tablespoons date purée (date paste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ cup 70% or higher cacao dark chocolate morsels
¼ cup unsweetened coconut flakes

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Instructions

Prepare the Oat Base: Place the rolled oats into the bowl of a food processor. Pulse 4-5 times to break them down slightly, creating a varied texture. Transfer the processed oats to a large mixing bowl.
Add Dry Components: Stir the ground flaxseed and chia seeds into the oats until evenly distributed.
Warm the Binders: In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm the unsalted almond butter, maple syrup, date purée, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth, fragrant, and easily pourable. Do not allow it to bubble.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the warm binder mixture over the dry ingredients. Use a silicone spatula to fold everything together until no dry spots remain and the “dough” is cohesive.
Fold in Finishes: Allow the mixture to cool for a minute, then add the dark chocolate morsels and coconut flakes. Fold them in gently until just incorporated.
Chill and Rest: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 10-15 minutes. This step firms up the mixture, making it less sticky.
Portion and Shape: Use a small cookie scoop to portion out the chilled dough. Roll each portion firmly between your palms to form a compact, round ball. Place the finished bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Notes

Troubleshooting: If the mixture seems too dry to bind (due to the reduced syrup), add 1-2 tablespoons of water or unsweetened almond milk until it reaches a manageable, sticky consistency.
Storage: Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to three months.
Variations: Feel free to substitute unsalted cashew butter or unsalted sunflower seed butter for the almond butter. For a different texture, try using chopped unsalted nuts.

These values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.

Nutrition

Calories: 170