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Banana Oat Energy Bites – A Simple, No-Bake Snack You’ll Actually Crave

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed (the spottier, the better)
  • 2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned, not instant)
  • 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (or almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter)
  • 2–3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (optional)
  • 1/4 cup ground flaxseed or chia seeds (optional, for extra fiber and omega-3s)
  • 2–4 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or dried fruit (optional mix-ins)

Method
 

  1. Mash the bananas. In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth with just a few small lumps. The riper they are, the sweeter and easier to mash.
  2. Add wet ingredients. Stir in the peanut butter, vanilla, and honey or maple syrup if using. Mix until creamy and well combined.
  3. Fold in dry ingredients. Add the oats, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. If you’re using flaxseed or chia, add them now. Stir until everything is evenly coated. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.
  4. Adjust the texture. If it feels too wet, add more oats a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a small splash of milk (dairy or plant-based) or a bit more mashed banana.
  5. Add mix-ins. Fold in chocolate chips, coconut, nuts, or dried fruit. Keep the pieces small so the bites hold together well.
  6. Chill the mixture. Cover the bowl and chill for 20–30 minutes. This helps the oats hydrate and makes rolling easier.
  7. Roll into bites. Scoop about 1–2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls with your hands. You should get around 16–22 bites, depending on size.
  8. Optional coating. For extra texture, roll the bites in shredded coconut, finely chopped nuts, or cocoa powder.
  9. Set and store. Place the bites on a plate or baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before transferring to an airtight container.