Looking for a healthy snack that’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and perfect for busy days? Energy bites are the ultimate solution. They’re quick, customizable, and great for keeping you fueled on the go. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or nutty, we’ve got you covered with these 6 delicious energy bite recipes and tips for perfecting your own versions tailored to you!
Why Make Your Own Energy Bites?
Energy bites are not only convenient but also allow you to control the quality of the ingredients and the amount of sugar/sweetness you want. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients to keep you fueled throughout the day, making them perfect for busy mornings, workout recovery, or an afternoon pick-me-up.
The Formula for Perfect Energy Bites
Creating the perfect energy bite is easy when you start with this simple formula:
- Oats (old-fashioned oats will provide a slightly chewy texture or quick oats create a softer, smoother texture, and quicker prep. We do not recommend using steel-cut oats.)
- Nut Butter or Seed Butter (any type works from peanut butter to sun butter)
- Sweetener of choice (liquid sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave work best, but you’ll see in some of our recipes we use dates)
- Add-ins (dried fruit, nuts, flax meal, chia seeds, or even mini chocolate chips)
Once you’ve got the basics down, you can start experimenting with different combinations!
Base Recipe for Energy Bites
Here’s a basic recipe you can use as a starting point:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quick oats (gluten-free, if needed)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (or any alternative)
- 2 tablespoons sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar)
- 1/2 cup flax meal (ground flax seeds)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- Unsweetened coconut flakes (optional)
Directions:
- Add all ingredients to a large mixing bowl and stir until everything is well incorporated.
- If the mixture seems dry, add liquid (water will do) one tablespoon at a time until you reach the right consistency.
- Using a small ice cream scoop or two spoons, portion out the mixture into 24 bites.
- Serve and enjoy! This recipe makes 8 servings, and the bites can be stored in the fridge for a week.
Get Creative and Experiment with Different Mix-Ins
The beauty of energy bites is their versatility. You can switch out ingredients based on what you like or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:
- For the crunch: Add nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
- Nutrition benefits: Nuts add protein, fiber, and healthy fats, keeping you full longer.
- For fruity sweetness: Toss in dried fruits like cherries, cranberries, raisins, or apricots.
- Nutrition tip: Look for options with no added sugar.
- For a nutritional boost: Include chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp hearts.
- Seeds boost fiber, protein, and healthy fats for steady energy.
- For protein: Add a scoop of protein powder or collagen powder to give your bites an extra nutritional punch.
Start with Small Batches
Making small batches (e.g., half or a quarter of a full recipe) allows you to try out different ingredient combinations without wasting too much if a batch doesn’t turn out as expected. Small batches make it easier to adjust flavors, sweetness, and textures. You can taste-test as you go and tweak ingredients incrementally, finding the right balance for your palate.
Don’t be discouraged by a batch that doesn’t turn out as you hoped. Each attempt is a step toward perfecting your recipe. If something doesn’t work, think about what might have gone wrong—was it too sweet, too dry, or lacking flavor? Over time, you’ll develop a sense of what works well together and how to adjust ratios for different flavors. This refinement process is part of the fun!
If you aren’t quite ready to get creative on your own and want a place to start, we’ve got you covered. Below you’ll find 6 different energy bite recipes with unique combinations.
Here’s 6 Combinations You’ll Want To Try
1. Almond Joy Energy Bites
Inspired by the classic candy bar, these bites combine chocolate, coconut, and almonds for a satisfying sweet treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
Directions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Add a splash of almond milk if the mixture is too dry.
- Roll into bite-sized balls and refrigerate until firm.
2. Peanut Butter Banana Energy Bites
This combination of peanut butter and banana is a classic, perfect for a nutritious, naturally sweet snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quick oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup mashed ripe banana
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Optional: 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or dried banana chips for extra flavor
Directions:
- Mash the banana in a mixing bowl, then add the oats, peanut butter, sweetener, chia seeds, and cinnamon.
- Mix well until combined. Add a bit of almond milk if needed for consistency.
- Roll into small balls and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
3. Cranberry Pistachio Energy Bites
For a tart and nutty flavor combination, these bites feature dried cranberries and crunchy pistachios.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup cashew or almond butter
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
- 1 tablespoon flax meal (ground flax seeds)
Directions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix until everything is evenly distributed.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon of water or milk until it holds together.
- Roll into balls and refrigerate for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
The next three recipes are a little more complex. Instead of a liquid sweetener, they use dates and instead of mixing with your hands or a spoon, a food processor is recommended.
4. Pumpkin Pie Bites
Perfect for fall, these bites combine the warmth of pumpkin and spices with a chocolate drizzle.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup medjool dates, pitted
- 1/4 cup unsalted almond butter
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 tsp maple syrup
- 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 Tbs coconut flour
- 1 1/2 cups oats
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate, melted
- 1 tsp coconut oil
- 1 Tbs sliced almonds for garnish
Directions:
Soak dates in boiling water, then combine all ingredients (except chocolate and almonds) in a food processor. Once chilled, roll into balls and drizzle with melted chocolate. Garnish with almonds for an extra crunch!
5. Carrot Cake Bites
Like a bite-sized version of your favorite cake, packed with oats and shredded carrots.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1/2 cup medjool dates, soaked in boiling water
- 1 cup quick-cook oats
- 1/4 cup finely shredded carrots
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped raw walnuts
Directions:
Blend all ingredients except walnuts in a food processor. Roll the mixture into balls and coat one side with chopped walnuts for a crunchy, satisfying texture.
6. Ultimate Coffee Energy Bites
For coffee lovers, this recipe brings a caffeine boost with every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups raw pecans
- 4 medjool dates, pitted
- 1 Tbs chia seeds
- 1 tsp ground coffee beans
- 1 tsp cocoa powder
- 2 Tbs coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Salt to taste
Directions:
Pulse pecans in a food processor, then add the rest of the ingredients and mix until smooth. Form into 12 bites and refrigerate until firm. Dust with extra cocoa powder for a rich finish.
PRO TIPS:
Adjusting Proportions Based on Ingredients
If you’re using ingredients with high moisture content, such as fresh fruits (like mashed bananas or pumpkin), you may need to reduce the amount of liquid or nut butter in your recipe to maintain the right consistency. If you find that your mixture is too soft, consider increasing the dry components, like oats or protein powder, to absorb some of the extra moisture.
How to Keep Energy Bites from Crumbling
On the other hand, sometimes energy bites can end up a little too dry and crumbly. If this happens, don’t worry—it’s easy to fix! You can bind the ingredients together by adding a bit more liquid sweetener, nut butter, or even just a small splash of water. Start with a teaspoon at a time until the mixture holds together when pressed.
TRY THIS – The mixture can be sticky but wearing gloves or spraying your hands with a non-stick spray can help!
How to Make Energy Bites Last Longer
If you want your bites to stay fresh as long as possible, store them in the freezer. Most recipes will last up to a month in the freezer, and they’re ready to eat after just a few minutes of thawing. If you plan to keep them in the fridge, they’ll last about 1-2 weeks.
TRY THIS – If you need a quick snack for the week, make a large batch of energy bites, freeze them, and grab a few as needed.
Time to try for yourself!
Now that you’ve got 6 mouthwatering energy bite recipes and some pro tips, it’s time to start creating! Whether you’re packing these bites for a busy workday, after the gym, or for a kid-friendly snack, they’re sure to hit the spot.
Do you have a favorite energy bite flavor? Let us know by tagging us or messaging us on Instagram!
