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Santa's Workshop Energy Bites (Elf-Approved!) - A Festive No-Bake Snack

Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick oats)
  • Nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew; sunflower seed butter for nut-free)
  • Honey or pure maple syrup
  • Ground flaxseed or chia seeds
  • Mini chocolate chips (regular or dairy-free)
  • Dried cranberries or chopped dried cherries
  • Unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
  • Vanilla extract
  • Cinnamon and a pinch of salt
  • Milk (dairy or plant-based) as needed to adjust texture
  • Festive mix-ins (crushed pretzels, chopped pistachios, or red/green sprinkles, optional)

Method
 

  1. Measure your dry base: Add 2 cups rolled oats to a large mixing bowl. Stir in 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (or chia seeds), 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Mix the glue: In a separate bowl, combine 3/4 cup nut butter with 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Warm the mixture in the microwave for 15–20 seconds if it’s too thick to stir.
  3. Combine: Pour the nut butter mixture over the oats. Stir until everything is evenly coated. The mixture should look slightly sticky but not wet.
  4. Add the festive bits: Fold in 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips, 1/4 cup dried cranberries, and 1/4 cup shredded coconut. If using sprinkles or crushed pretzels, add 2–3 tablespoons.
  5. Adjust texture: If the mix feels crumbly, splash in 1–2 tablespoons milk. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon more oats or flaxseed.
  6. Chill briefly: Cover and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes. This helps the mixture set, making rolling easier.
  7. Roll into bites: Scoop about 1 tablespoon per bite and roll between your palms to form balls. You should get 18–24 bites, depending on size.
  8. Optional coating: Roll some bites in extra coconut, finely chopped pistachios, or crushed candy canes for a festive finish.
  9. Set and store: Place the bites in a single layer on a tray or plate. Chill for 30 minutes to firm up, then transfer to an airtight container.