These babies are a must have for any trip.
Just like almost everyone, we are trying to eat better. We’re trying to limit our processed foods and keep healthier options close at hand. Boy, some days are better than others for sure.
Many of our trips are a 3 to 6 hour drive which can lead to mindless eating. I’m the flight attendant while he drives so I’m the one that fetches coffee, more water and snacks. It’s so easy to grab that little bag of Cheetos or a few cookies. We still like a crunchy snack and who doesn’t like the new thin Oreos. Seriously, if you haven’t tried them you should. But, that’s not what we should be snacking on while rolling down the road.
This recipe from Cooking Classy popped up on my Pinterest feed and they looked so good I knew I had to try it. The recipe met my requirements for a road snack as I needed it to be easy and portable. Almost two years later, we always have a container of these in the frig.
These No Bake Energy Balls come together quickly and I’m sure you’ll like them just as much as we do. They have become the perfect thing to snack on and a bonus, it’s almost completely guilt free!
There is just enough sweetness to satisfy our craving and the peanut butter adds just enough protein to keep the hunger away. Perfect when you’re on the road. We also take them on hikes and RZR rides. I’ll wrap several in foil and toss them in the freezer overnight then pop them in our backpack for the day’s adventure.
Stir the peanut butter, honey and vanilla together in a bowl. After that’s all smooth and creamy, add the flaxseed, oatmeal and chocolate chips. If you’re including the coconut, add it here as well.
I’m not a fan of coconut, it’s a texture thing for me so I add a little extra oatmeal to compensate. I’m sure you’ll find them just as delicious with or without the flaky white stuff. I found Bob’s Red Mill ground flax seed she referenced in her post in the organic section of my grocery store. I also use the mini chips instead of regular sized chocolate chips that she mentioned in her post. The recipe calls for 6 tablespoons of chocolate chips. The first time I made these, I dutifully scooped and counted them out but thought there had to be an easier way as I probably had another tablespoon or two spilled on the counter. Off to Google I went and found that 6 tablespoons of chips is .375 cups so I use a 1/3 cup and figure I’m close enough.
After you stir it all together, pop it in the frig for 30 minutes or so. It looks good enough to eat with a spoon right now.
I use a regular old spoon from my silverware drawer and scoop it up then roll it into a ball. I lay them on a piece of wax paper until I’m all done rolling. I have a great square Tupperware container that has been the exclusive energy ball container for years now.
I hope you like them as much as we do.
Energy Bites
Recipe Credit: Cooking Classy
Makes 20-25 depending on size
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats (raw)
- 2/3 cup toasted, sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup ground golden flax seed (Bob’s Red Mill)
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
Stir together peanut butter, honey and vanilla. Add remaining ingredients and stir until completely incorporated.
Refrigerate until mixture firms up, about 30 minutes. Shape into 1-inch balls. Store in refrigerator in an airtight container.