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Irresistible No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Bites: Gluten-Free & Easy!

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Bites

Close-up of no-bake chocolate peanut butter energy bites with mini chocolate chips.

Okay, let's get cozy and chat about one of my all-time favorite snacks – something that's not only incredibly delicious but also wonderfully easy to whip up: No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Bites! Now, I know what you're thinking, "Another energy bite recipe?" But trust me, these are different. They're the kind of snack you can throw together when you're craving something sweet and satisfying but are also trying to keep things relatively healthy, and, most importantly, they are perfect for those of us navigating the gluten-free world. My journey with these little bites started on a particularly busy week when I needed something grab-and-go without sacrificing flavor or dealing with a ton of dishes and it has become my staple since. This isn't just a recipe; it's a lifesaver. Prepare to be addicted, my friend!

Ingredients You'll Need:

Here's the low-down on what makes these energy bites so darn good:

  • 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats (make sure they're certified gluten-free if you're particularly sensitive!)
  • ½ cup natural peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, your pick! I'm partial to creamy for a smoother texture.)
  • ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup (honey adds a nice depth, but maple syrup is perfect for a vegan version.)
  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for that rich chocolate fix. Don't skimp on quality here!)
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds (or flaxseed meal, if you have it. These help bind everything together and add extra nutrition)
  • ¼ cup coconut flakes, unsweetened (optional, but adds a lovely chewiness and touch of sweetness)
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt (to enhance all the flavors. It's a small pinch, but makes a BIG difference!)
  • 2 tablespoons water to adjust the mixture .
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (because a little vanilla makes everything better!)
  • ¼ cup mini gluten-free chocolate chips (optional, but oh-so-worth it for that extra chocolate burst!)

Let's Get Rolling! (Literally)

This recipe is so easy, you'll have these delicious bites ready in no time. Grab a bowl, and let's get started:

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together your gluten-free rolled oats, cocoa powder, chia seeds (or flaxseed meal), coconut flakes (if using), and sea salt. Whisk them together to make sure everything is evenly distributed. This step ensures the cocoa flavor and salt are throughout the bites.
  2. Add the Good Stuff: Now, add your peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), water, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredient mix. If your peanut butter is particularly thick, you could microwave it for 15 seconds to make it easier to mix.
  3. Mix it all Together: Grab a sturdy spoon or spatula and start mixing everything together. It might seem a little dry at first, but keep going, and the peanut butter and honey will coat everything beautifully. Make sure the mixtures is well combined. The mixtures should be slightly moistened.
  4. Fold in Chocolate Chips: If you decided to add in the chocolate chips, this is your moment! Gently fold them into the mix. That burst of chocolate is what makes these bites irresistible (in my opinion anyway.)
  5. Roll and Chill: Now it's time to get your hands into mix. Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, take small portions of the mixture, and roll them between your palms to make little balls–about 1 inch in diameter. Place the finished balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Chill Out: Pop the finished bites into the fridge for about 20-30 minutes to firm up. This step is crucial for them to hold their shape and for the flavors to meld together.

Tips & Tricks for Energy Bite Mastery:

These energy bites are super versatile, which means we can customize them to your preferences! This is also your chance to make it personal to your taste buds:

  • Nut Butter Swaps: Don't have peanut butter on hand? No problem! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter are all fantastic substitutes.
  • Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet treat, reduce the honey or syrup by a tablespoon. For more sweetness, you could add a few drops of stevia or agave.
  • Mix-In Magic: Feel free to play around with other mix-ins! Try adding chopped nuts, dried cranberries, goji berries, or shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture.
  • Protein Boost: Want to add a little extra protein to these bite? Toss in a scoop of your favorite pea or whey protein powder – just add a little extra water if it makes the mix too dry.
  • Make it Ahead: These are perfect for meal prepping! You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for longer storage. Let them thaw for 10 minutes before enjoying them.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra decadent treat, try drizzling some melted dark chocolate over the finished bites.

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Recipe Card

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Bites

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 20-30 minutes
Yields: About 15 bites

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
  • ½ cup natural peanut butter
  • ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds
  • ¼ cup unsweetened coconut flakes
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons water.
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup mini gluten-free chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine oats, cocoa powder, chia seeds, coconut flakes, and salt.
  2. Add peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), water and vanilla extract. Mix well.
  3. Stir in chocolate chips (if using).
  4. Roll mixture into 1-inch sized balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes before consuming.

Product Recommendations:

Here are some items that can make your energy bite creation even smoother:

So there you have it, friend – your new go-to snack that is easy, and incredibly delicious. I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your life as well. Until next time, happy snacking!

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