Energy bites

Alright, guys! These are some of my favorite things! Healthy yummy balls of goodness that are great before a workout, after a workout or just as a snack. I almost always have these around- it’s better to pop a few of these babies in your mouth than to go for a bag of chips (or whatever your snack vice is). 

I started making these last year while training for my half marathon when I needed something not too heavy, but would still provide enough energy for my early morning long distance runs. 

  
The first ingredient is rolled oats. I buy mine in bulk from either Sprouts or Natural Grocers (whoever has them for cheaper that day). Great to throw into smoothies/ protein shakes to help keep you full longer. 

Next comes ground flax seed. You can buy whole flax seeds and grind them yourself or you can find a big bag of pre ground flax like this at Costco- but for the love of whole foods- you must grind them! Your body cannot break them down in whole seed form.

  

Next comes the nut butter! Pick your favorite one- almond, peanut, sunflower… or make your own! I have not done this yet but plan to soon 🙂 pictured are two of my current favorites. Both low in sugar and sodium. This particular peanut butter is more oily and runny so I know that when I use this one, I need to add more oats so that the bites hold together better.

  
Next you sprinkle on a tablespoon of chia seeds. This crunchy super food is packed with calcium, vitamin c, iron, potassium and omega 3s… but beware! You’ll probably be picking a few out of your teeth… Totally worth it!!

  
Then you add honey and a splash of vanilla and mix it all together until ingredients are evenly distributed.

Now, this is where you can get creative (or just call it good). I try something a little different every time. You can add a half cup of dark chocolate chips or craisins. I like to add a sprinkle of cinnamon and last time, I added a tablespoon of freshly ground coffee beans! Make it your own but keep it healthy! 

 
   
Once I added the chocolate chips, I put the mixture into the refrigerator for at least and hour to set up. Then I rolled heaping tablespoons into yummy little balls 🙂 You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week (if they last that long!). 

  Let me know how you like them! (Recipe below)

 

 Mix together:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup ground flax
• 1/2 cup peanut butter (or favorite but butter)
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1 Tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Chill for one hour then roll into 1 inch balls. Keep refrigerated up to one week.

 

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