Name: Chia Banana Bread Energy Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487182H55M39S
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large ripe banana, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter; 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey; 1 tablespoon chia seeds; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of sea salt; 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (optional); Melted dark chocolate, for drizzling (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chia Banana Bread Energy Bites offer the best of both worlds—delicious and healthy! The combination of oats, banana, and chia seeds creates a wholesome snack full of fiber and protein. Not only do these energy bites taste amazing, but they are also incredibly easy to make. With no baking required, you can have a batch ready in under 40 minutes. Plus, the optional drizzle of dark chocolate adds a touch of indulgence to make them even more irresistible. They are vegan, customizable, and make for a perfect snack at any time of the day.

Ingredients

1 large ripe banana, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (optional)
Melted dark chocolate, for drizzling (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a medium bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
Stir in the peanut or almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and sea salt until well combined.
Add the rolled oats, chia seeds, and chocolate chips (if using). Mix until everything is thoroughly incorporated.
Refrigerate the mixture for 20–30 minutes to firm it up.
Once firm, use a spoon or scoop to form the mixture into 12 bite-sized balls or mounds.
Place the bites on a parchment-lined tray. If desired, drizzle with melted dark chocolate.
Refrigerate for another 10 minutes to set the chocolate before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 energy bites
Prep time: 10 minutes
Refrigeration time: 30–40 minutes (including chilling for firming up and setting the chocolate)
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Nut-Free Version: Substitute sunflower seed butter for the peanut or almond butter to make these bites nut-free.
Sweetener Options: Use honey, maple syrup, or even agave for a different sweetness profile.
Chocolate-Free: Skip the chocolate drizzle or mini chocolate chips for a more naturally sweet version.
Add-ins: Add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store these energy bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Freezing: For longer shelf life, freeze the energy bites. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: These energy bites are meant to be eaten cold, straight from the fridge or freezer. No need to reheat.

FAQs

1. Can I use any other nut butter for this recipe?

Yes, almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter work well as substitutes for peanut butter.

2. Can I skip the chocolate chips?

Absolutely! The chocolate chips are optional, but they add a nice touch of sweetness and texture.

3. How long do these energy bites last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, they will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 1 week.

4. Can I make these energy bites gluten-free?

Yes, just be sure to use certified gluten-free oats for a completely gluten-free version.

5. How do I know when the mixture is ready to form into balls?

After refrigerating for 20–30 minutes, the mixture should be firm enough to easily form into balls without sticking too much to your hands.

6. Can I add other spices to these energy bites?

Certainly! Feel free to experiment with adding spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cloves for a different flavor profile.

7. Is there an alternative to maple syrup?

Yes, you can substitute honey, agave syrup, or any liquid sweetener of your choice.

8. Can I make these energy bites without chia seeds?

If you don’t have chia seeds, you can substitute them with flaxseeds, or just omit them altogether.

9. Can I make these bites without the dark chocolate drizzle?

Yes, the chocolate drizzle is optional. You can skip it or even use a different type of chocolate.

10. How do I freeze these energy bites?

Simply place the energy bites in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for storage.

Conclusion

Chia Banana Bread Energy Bites are a quick, healthy, and tasty snack that will satisfy your sweet tooth while fueling your body with nutritious ingredients. Easy to make and customizable, these energy bites are perfect for busy mornings, after workouts, or as a grab-and-go snack anytime. With a hint of banana bread flavor, the chewy texture, and the optional chocolate drizzle, it’s hard to believe they’re so good for you!

Chia Banana Bread Energy Bites

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These no-bake Chia Banana Bread Energy Bites are a healthy, chewy, and naturally sweet snack made with oats, banana, chia seeds, and a hint of dark chocolate. They’re perfect for a quick bite between meals or a post-workout boost.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: undefined
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 energy bites
Category: Snack
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture: In a medium bowl, mash the banana until smooth. Stir in the peanut butter or almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and sea salt until well combined.
Add Oats and Chia Seeds: Add the rolled oats, chia seeds, and chocolate chips (if using). Mix until everything is thoroughly incorporated.
Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate the mixture for 20-30 minutes to firm it up.
Form the Bites: Once firm, use a spoon or scoop to form the mixture into 12 bite-sized balls or mounds.
Drizzle Chocolate: Place the bites on a parchment-lined tray and drizzle with melted dark chocolate (optional).
Chill Again: Refrigerate for another 10 minutes to set the chocolate before serving.