These Cranberry Almond Energy Bites are small but mighty! Packed with tasty cranberries, crunchy almonds, and a hint of honey, they’re great for a quick snack or a boost before a workout.
They’re super easy to make—just mix everything, roll into balls, and enjoy! I love keeping a batch handy for when those afternoon cravings hit. Who can resist a bite that’s tasty and healthy? 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These provide a great base for energy bites. If you need a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats. Steel-cut oats can work, but they may require more liquid and time to soften.
Dried Cranberries: Essential for sweetness and tang! If you prefer, you can use raisins or chopped dates for a similar sweetness. For a twist, try dried cherries or blueberries!
Almonds: I love the crunch they add! Feel free to substitute with walnuts, pecans, or any other nuts you enjoy. If nut allergies are a concern, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make great alternatives.
Almond Butter: This adds a creamy texture. If you’re not fond of almond butter, peanut butter or sun butter can be good swaps.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both add sweetness. If you want a sugar-free option, consider using a liquid stevia or agave syrup instead.
How Do I Get My Mixture to Stick Together?
One common challenge is ensuring the mixture holds together to form nice balls. Here are some tips:
- Make sure you mix everything well, so all the dry ingredients get coated by the almond butter and sweetener.
- If it feels too crumbly, add a teaspoon of almond butter or honey to add moisture and stickiness.
- Using your hands to roll them helps because the warmth can make it easier to form the bites.
- Refrigerating them for 30 minutes helps firm them up, so don’t skip that step!
How to Make Cranberry Almond Energy Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped if large
- 1/2 cup almonds, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup almond butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 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. In total, you’ll be enjoying your energy bites in around 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl. Add your rolled oats, dried cranberries, and roughly chopped almonds into the bowl. Give it a good stir to combine everything nicely.
2. Add the Sticky Ingredients:
Next, it’s time to add the sticky goodness! Pour in the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon (if you’re using it), and that pinch of salt. Mix well until everything is fully combined and sticky. If it seems a bit too dry, feel free to add a little extra almond butter or honey until it holds together nicely.
3. Roll the Bites:
Now comes the fun part! Using your hands, scoop out a portion of the mixture and roll it into a ball about 1 inch in diameter. Repeat this until you’ve rolled the entire mixture into energy bites.
4. Refrigerate:
Place your energy bites on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the fridge and let them chill for at least 30 minutes. This will help them firm up and hold their shape.
5. Store and Enjoy:
Once they are set, transfer the energy bites to an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage. Enjoy these delicious, nutritious bites as a quick snack or a pre/post workout boost!
Happy snacking!
Can I Use Different Nuts or Seeds?
Absolutely! If you prefer or need to avoid almonds, feel free to substitute with any other nut like walnuts, pecans, or even seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Just make sure they are roughly chopped so they mix well!
Can I Make These Energy Bites Nut-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute almond butter with sun butter or another seed butter to keep the energy bites nut-free. Just ensure that the butter is thick enough to help bind the ingredients together.
How Long Do These Last?
These energy bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge for a few hours before eating!
What Can I Use Instead of Honey or Maple Syrup?
If you’d like a sugar-free option, you can substitute honey or maple syrup with agave syrup or a liquid stevia. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust the amount to your taste preference!
