Peanut Butter Energy Bites

Hello friends! This is a little different from my normal “journal entry” style blog posts but I though it would be fun to incorporate some recipes and other tips on here, too. This recipe is one of my favorites because of my penchant for anything sweet and also somewhat good for you. It’s been a go-to for me for an on-the-go energy boost or for my sweet “fix” after dinner :) And the best part?! It’s SO EASY and quick!! Normally I stick to the rule “You are what you eat so don’t be cheap, fast or easy (ha!)” but these bad (but actually good) boys are a glorious exception. Praises!

Other good news, you can play with this recipe and adjust it to your personal preferences. So if you don’t like coconut, ditch it! Prefer almond butter? Do that instead! Vegan option? Make it with maple syrup instead of honey! Get creative and share your favorite version! This just happens to be my mixture of choice today. I used them as a snack and also as a healthier alternative for an Easter dessert last weekend (hence the egg tray that they are perfectly fitting in #resourceful).

Want to know some of their benefits??

Oats: Loaded with fiber and other antioxidants that help reduce cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease, and can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer (according to the British Medical Journal)

Organic peanut butter: good source of protein and fiber

Unsweetened shredded coconut: contains fiber, healthy fats (both of these keep us feeling full!) and iron

Chocolate chips: Enjoy Life chocolate chips are allergy friendly deliciousness- Verified Non GMO, Gluten free, and free from the 14 most common food allergens

Honey: Healthier alternative to sugar as it has antioxidants that can help with heart health and also reduce cholesterol

Chia seeds: What is there not to love?! Super nutrient dense foods that are loaded with antioxidants, fiber, protein, and other nutrients that are beneficial for bone health, digestive health, and heart health

Flax seeds: Great source of Omega-3 Fats, also a rich source of lignans which can help reduce the risk of cancer; they are also high in fiber and can help control blood sugar levels and reduce cholesterol

With all of those health benefits, the delicious taste is like a cherry on top!! Enjoy!

Peanut Butter Energy Bites

Makes about 24 and can refrigerate up to a week!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cup oats

• About 1 cup toasted shredded coconut (personal preference)

• 1 cup peanut butter or any nut butter of your choice

• 1 cup mini chocolate chips (I use Enjoy Life vegan semi-sweet chocolate chips)

• ½ cup honey

• 1 ½ Tbsp. chia seeds

• 1 Tbsp. Ground flax seeds

• 1 tsp vanilla

Instructions

1. To toast the shredded coconut, preheat oven to 350 and spread flakes on baking pan; bake for about 5 mins (watch carefully! It can burn quickly- see picture below)

2. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.

3. Roll and compress the mixture into 1 inch rounds and place on parchment paper

4. Refrigerate for 10-15 mins until firm and then transfer to an air tight container.

5. Refrigerate and enjoy!

<<Burnt coconut shreds (don't do that)

vs.

Nicely toasted coconut shreds (do that)>>

These beauties will last about a week in the air tight container in the fridge so make a bunch and enjoy all week long!