Description

Cherry Cranberry Energy Bites are a nutritious and delicious no-bake snack combining dried cherries, cranberries, almonds, chia seeds, oats, and almond butter. Perfect for a quick energy boost, these bites are naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup and flavored with vanilla and sea salt. They come together easily and chill to a perfect firm texture.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats (use certified gluten-free oats if required)
1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/3 cup raw almonds, finely chopped
2 tablespoons chia seeds

Wet Ingredients

1/2 cup creamy almond butter
1/4 cup honey or pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch sea salt

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Combine Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add rolled oats, chopped dried cherries, chopped dried cranberries, finely chopped almonds, and chia seeds. Mix well to evenly distribute all the dry components.
Warm Almond Butter Mixture. In a small microwave-safe bowl, gently heat the almond butter with honey or maple syrup for 20 to 30 seconds until smooth and pourable. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt to enhance flavor.
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients. Pour the warmed almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Combine thoroughly using a spatula or clean hands until the mixture is cohesive and sticky, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Adjust Consistency. If the mixture seems too dry, add an additional tablespoon of almond butter to improve binding. Conversely, if it is too sticky, mix in a spoonful of oats until desired texture is achieved.
Form Energy Bites. Portion the mixture into tablespoon-sized scoops and roll each into a compact ball. Arrange the balls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper for easy refrigeration.
Chill to Set. Refrigerate the energy bites for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up, resulting in perfect texture for snacking.

Notes

Use certified gluten-free oats if avoiding gluten.
Maple syrup makes this recipe vegan-friendly, while honey is preferred for a non-vegan option.
Store energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For extra texture, consider adding a tablespoon of shredded coconut or cacao nibs.
If mixture is too sticky to roll, lightly wet your hands with water before shaping.