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Christmas Eve Energy Bites

Print Recipe
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats not instant
  • 1/2 cup natural creamy peanut butter or almond/sunflower seed butter
  • 1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts pecans or walnuts are great
  • 1/3 cup mini dark chocolate chips
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries chopped
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed or chia seeds
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • Optional holiday boosters
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract for a minty twist
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest for cranberry-orange vibes
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder for double-chocolate
  • Unsweetened shredded coconut for rolling
  • Crushed freeze-dried raspberries or crushed peppermint for a festive coating

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, stir peanut butter and honey until glossy and smooth. If stiff, microwave 10–15 seconds to loosen.
  2. Add vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Stir like you mean it.
  3. Fold in oats, flaxseed, nuts, cranberries, and chocolate chips. If using peppermint extract, orange zest, or cocoa, add now.
  4. Mixture should be tacky but not wet. Too dry? Add 1–2 teaspoons honey . Too sticky? Add 2–3 tablespoons oats .
  5. Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. This keeps the bites from sticking to everything, including your patience.
  6. Scoop heaping tablespoons and roll into 1–1.5-inch balls. For holiday sparkle, roll in coconut, crushed peppermint, or raspberry dust.
  7. Place on a parchment-lined tray and chill 30 minutes to firm. Transfer to an airtight container.
  8. Eat straight from the fridge before church, after carols, or while assembling a 48-step toy at 1 a.m. We've all been there.