Hello Hello! Man, it’s been awhile since I posted a recipe on here…
I know I’ve posted recipes for energy bites in the past, but they’re literally the easiest things to make ever AND can be a zillion different flavors. As I get into the swing of things with my new job and my schedule, I’m also getting back into meal prep and packing my lunches. As always, snacks are literally my best friend. Like when I tell you that every single day I make sure I have at least two snacks in my lunch bag, I am not kidding, guys?
I’ve gotten pretty good at making a filling enough breakfast to last me until lunch, but some days I still get hungry around 11:30, or want a sweet treat at around 3pm. They have some snacks at work, but you know me, I like to pack my own so I know exactly what I’m eating and don’t get tempted to raid the cereal or candy!
I’ve also learned that if I don’t have a snack that has protein in it, I’m screwed. So the aforementioned candy/cereal/crackers/whatever is out in the kitchen? Yeah, probably not going to cut it for me even if I do decide to indulge. Therefore, I either bring an energy bar (which is generally the norm) or I bring my own homemade version (which I’m trying to make the new norm). I know the prices for energy bars and such can actually be pretty great when they’re on sale, but they all have six thousand ingredients. Have you ever noticed that?! Larabars are definitely the cleanest (or RxBars, but I’m not a fan of the texture) aaaaand they’re also the easiest to make.
Some people have an issue with the dates in these things and look, I know they’re packed with sugar, but they’re also rich in fiber, vitamins, and iron, PLUS they help boost energy. There are obviously energy bite recipes made with oats and fewer dates, but I personally love the texture of these. They’re actually not all that sweet, I promise, and since they’re more filling, you’ll feel satisfied after just two or three.
TL;DR – Make these. They are cheap, and filling, and have lots of good-for-you ingredients?
Almond Butter & Jelly Bites
5-7 large pitted dates (best if fresh – I used Medjool)
1 1/2 cups raw almonds
2 tablespoons nut butter (I used peanut butter, just because I love it, but you can’t really taste it!)
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed finely (I used my fingers)
up to 5 tbsp water (only as needed and add one tbsp at a time!)
1tsp Moon Deli Energy Tonic (optional)
1. In a food processor or high powered blender, add all ingredients except for freeze-dried strawberries and water. Pulse 2-3 times and then scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula.
2. Repeat until a dough-like consistency forms and feel free to add the water one tablespoon at a time if you’re having trouble blending the mixture, but be sure not to over-blend as some crunch will add texture!
3. Put the crushed strawberries on a plate and form the dough into 1 inch balls. Roll each ball into the fruit to coat it and then softly press the strawberries into the bites so they don’t fall right off. Refrigerate in an air-tight container for up to 10 days.
More of my energy bite recipes:
Peppermint Brownie Protein Bites
3-Ingredient Cinnamon Raisin Bites
What snacks have you been loving lately? Are you someone who likes to make snacks or buy pre-made ones? I’m a mix of both – just depends on the week! Have a great rest of yours?
xo Jordan