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Quick Peanut Butter Banana Energy Bites (Easy Lunch Idea)

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These no-bake energy bites combine creamy peanut butter, ripe banana, and rolled oats for a wholesome, kid-friendly snack that comes together in under 15 minutes. Perfect for school lunches, they are naturally sweetened and packed with fiber and protein.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup rolled oats (not instant)
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 large ripe banana, mashed
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/4 cup ground flaxseed or chia seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Mash the banana: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until mostly smooth. A few small lumps are fine.
  2. Add the wet ingredients: Add the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
  3. Mix in the dry ingredients: Add the rolled oats, ground flaxseed, and a pinch of salt. Stir until evenly distributed. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.
  4. Fold in the chocolate chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips (if using). Do not overmix.
  5. Chill the mixture: Refrigerate the bowl for 10-15 minutes to make the mixture easier to handle.
  6. Roll into bites: Line a baking sheet or plate with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop portions and roll into 1-inch balls. Wet hands slightly if sticky.
  7. Final chill: Refrigerate the rolled bites for at least 30 minutes before serving. For a quicker option, freeze for 15 minutes.

Notes

For nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter or WowButter. For gluten-free, ensure oats are certified gluten-free. For vegan, use maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate chips. Chilling the mixture before rolling is crucial for easy handling. The bites can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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