Cranberry Almond Energy Bites are a tasty and healthy snack! These little balls combine sweet cranberries, crunchy almonds, and rolled oats. They’re perfect for a quick boost of energy!
Honestly, I can’t just have one. They’re great before a workout or as a sweet treat anytime. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up—just mix and roll! Who doesn’t love that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These give the bites their chewy texture. Quick oats work too, but they may make the bites softer. You can substitute oats with gluten-free oats if needed!
Dried Cranberries: They add sweetness and tartness. If you’re not a fan, feel free to replace them with raisins or chopped dates. Both options will still keep that delicious chewiness.
Almonds: Chopped almonds add crunch. You can switch to other nuts like walnuts or pecans if you prefer different flavors. You can even use seeds for a nut-free version!
Chia Seeds: These provide healthy fats and help bind the bites. You can replace them with flaxseeds or omit them altogether if you don’t have any on hand.
Nut Butter: Almond butter is creamy and delicious, but peanut butter or sun butter also work well. Each one will give a unique twist to the flavor!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners are great. If you’re vegan, stick with maple syrup for a plant-based option. You can also use agave or a sugar substitute if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Perfectly Formed Energy Bites?
The key to forming these energy bites lies in how well you mix and shape the ingredients. Here are my tips:
- Make sure to mix thoroughly so everything sticks together. Use your hands if necessary; it can be much easier!
- If it feels too crumbly, add a little more almond butter or sweetener to help it bind.
- Rolling them firmly helps them hold their shape, so don’t be afraid to give them a good squeeze while shaping.
- Chilling the bites before storing will make them firmer and easier to eat. Just 30 minutes in the fridge does wonders!
Cranberry Almond Energy Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped if large
- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped or roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes to have these delicious energy bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, dried cranberries, chopped almonds, and chia seeds. Mix them together well so that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate smaller bowl, combine the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, pour the almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until all the dry ingredients are fully coated and it starts to stick together. This is where the fun begins!
4. Shape Into Balls:
With your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. If the mixture feels too crumbly, just add a little more almond butter until it binds nicely.
5. Chill the Bites:
Place the rolled energy bites on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help them firm up and hold their shape.
6. Store Your Energy Bites:
Once they’ve hardened a bit, transfer the energy bites to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Perfect for a quick snack anytime you need a boost!
Enjoy these chewy, nutty, and sweet energy bites as a healthy way to fuel your day and satisfy your cravings! Happy snacking!
Can I Use Other Nuts Instead of Almonds?
Absolutely! If you prefer or have allergies, feel free to substitute almonds with walnuts, pecans, or even seeds like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Each will give a unique flavor!
How Do I Store These Energy Bites?
Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage—just let them thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
Can I Omit the Chia Seeds?
Yes, you can omit chia seeds if you don’t have them on hand. They help with binding and add healthy fats, but the recipe will still work without them. Consider adding an extra tablespoon of almond butter to maintain the right consistency!
Can I Make These Energy Bites Vegan?
Definitely! Simply replace the honey with maple syrup and ensure your almond butter is vegan. This will keep your energy bites fully plant-based and delicious!
