Today we are making energy bites from scratch! These are perfect for pre or post-workout snacks, plus they’re easy to transport!

Hey SHEFIT Sisters, welcome to CHEFIT!

My name is Jenn and I am so excited to lead you on this culinary journey to making meals and snacks that are nutritious and easy. Let’s face it, we lead busy lives but still want to cook delicious meals for ourselves and our families.

These energy bites are the perfect blend of complex carbohydrates from the oats, protein from the peanut butter and flax seed, and antioxidants from the chocolate (or dried fruit) and honey. After an intense workout, your body needs to rebuild its glucose stores. The oats will do a great job of helping your body replenish this energy. The protein from the peanut butter and flax seeds will help to rebuild muscle that has been fatigued and worn down with exercise. Flax seed is also a great source of heart healthy Omega-3 fatty acids. You can think of these energy bites as a way to not only enjoy a delicious snack, but also to refuel your body with flavor.

This recipe is so easy and most of the items are probably right in your pantry. You also can never go wrong with a chocolate and peanut butter combination! Not a fan of peanut butter? You can substitute with another nut butter for the same tasty results.

These energy bites are also great if you choose to use dried fruit instead of chocolate chips. Dried fruit is like a little nutritional powerhouse. They contain a specific type of antioxidant called a polyphenol, which has been associated with improved blood flow and better digestive health. You have to admit, it’s always nice to eat something that tastes great and gives your body major health benefits.

Energy Bites
Ingredients:
⅔ cup creamy peanut butter
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or dried fruit
1 cup old fashioned oats
½ cup ground flax seeds
2 tablespoons honey

Preparation:
1. Combine all 5 ingredients in a medium bowl. Stir to combine or use clean hands.
2. Place in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes so they are easier to roll.
3. Roll into 12 bites and store in the fridge for up to a week.

PIN IT HERE!

Recipe Quick Tips:
Mixture sticking to your hands? Give them a little spritz of non-stick spray. Same goes for any of your measuring cups!

Make these ahead of time, too! Since these bites will stay perfectly rolled and can be refrigerated for up to a week, put them on your to-do list ahead of a busy week. Look for local honey; using a local honey brand ensures that it’s a pure product with no added fillers. Many large brand honey companies have sold products containing antibiotics and heavy metals. Keep it local or buy from small farm beekeepers!

See you next week!
Chef Jenn