These Cranberry Almond Energy Bites are a tasty snack packed with sweetness and crunch. Easy to make, they combine chewy cranberries with crunchy almonds for a delightful treat!
I love grabbing a few for a quick pick-me-up during the day. They are perfect for keeping my energy up without the guilt! Plus, who doesn’t love a snack that’s also super cute? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Oats are the base of these energy bites, giving them texture and fiber. If you need a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats.
Dried Cranberries: These add a sweet and tangy flavor. You can swap them with other dried fruits like raisins, chopped apricots, or cherries for a different twist.
Almonds: They provide crunch and healthy fats. If you have nut allergies, seeds like sunflower seeds or pepitas (pumpkin seeds) can work just as well.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both serve as natural sweeteners. Maple syrup is a great choice for a vegan option. You can use agave syrup too!
Almond Butter: This adds creaminess and flavor. You can easily substitute it with peanut butter or sun butter if you prefer.
How Can I Make Sure My Energy Bites Hold Together?
Getting the right consistency is key to forming the bites. First, you want to make sure the oats and dry ingredients are well mixed before adding the wet ingredients. If the mixture feels too dry and crumbly, add a bit more almond butter or honey to help bind everything together.
- Mix the dry and wet ingredients in separate bowls before combining.
- When stirring, ensure everything is evenly coated and sticky.
- If it looks crumbly, don’t hesitate to adjust with more wet ingredients a little at a time.
Chilling the mixture not only helps firm them up but also makes rolling easier. Enjoy your energy bites knowing they are bite-sized and full of goodness!
Cranberry Almond Energy Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped if large
- 1/2 cup almonds, finely chopped or ground
- 1/4 cup natural honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for extra nutrition)
- A pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you can have a healthy snack ready in just 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, chopped dried cranberries, and finely chopped almonds. Stir everything together until well mixed. This gives the bites a nice texture with every bite!
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, combine the honey (or maple syrup), almond butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix it well until it is smooth. This will create a sweet and creamy blend to hold the bites together.
3. Combine Both Mixtures:
Now, pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. If you’re using chia seeds, add them in now. Stir everything thoroughly until it’s well combined and sticky. If the mixture seems too dry, don’t hesitate to add a touch more honey or almond butter!
4. Form the Energy Bites:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. It’s a fun step—getting a little messy is all part of the process!
5. Chill and Store:
Place the energy bites on a tray or plate lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so they can firm up. Once they’re set, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last up to a week—if they last that long! Enjoy these tasty, wholesome snacks anytime you need a pick-me-up!
Can I Substitute Other Nuts or Seeds?
Absolutely! If you’re allergic to almonds or want to try a different flavor, feel free to replace them with any other nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
How Can I Make These Energy Bites Vegan?
To make these bites vegan, simply use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your nut butter is free from added animal products. Most nut butters are vegan-friendly, so you should be good to go!
Can I Freeze These Energy Bites?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just place the formed energy bites in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet snack, simply reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup to your taste. You can also consider adding a small pinch of cinnamon to balance out the flavors without adding more sweetness!
