No Bake Energy Bites for Kids
These wholesome no bake energy bites are a quick, healthy, and kid-approved snack made with oats, nut butter, honey, and fun mix-ins. Perfect for lunchboxes, playdates, or a nutritious energy boost, they come together in minutes and require no baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 18-20 bites 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (or Sunbutter/almond butter for allergies)
- 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup/agave for vegan)
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed (optional)
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips (or cacao nibs, optional)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
- Optional: 2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries
- Optional: 1 scoop (about 1/4 cup) protein powder
- Optional: 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
Instructions
- Measure out all ingredients. Spray measuring cup with oil before measuring honey for easy release.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, ground flaxseed, chia seeds, chocolate chips, and any dry add-ins (coconut, seeds, etc.). Stir to distribute evenly.
- Add peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt to the bowl. Mix with a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon until thick and sticky.
- Optional: Cover and chill the dough in the fridge for 10-15 minutes for easier rolling.
- Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion and roll mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Eat bites immediately or chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to firm up.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
For nut-free, use seed butter and seeds. Pulse oats for smoother texture if desired. Wet hands before rolling to prevent sticking. Taste dough before rolling to adjust sweetness or salt. Double batch and freeze for grab-and-go snacks. Skip honey for kids under one year.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite (about 1 inch
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 40
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 13
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 3
Keywords: energy bites, no bake, healthy snack, kids snack, lunchbox, gluten-free, vegan, peanut butter, oats, easy recipe